KZN fashion designers say hello London
INVITED fashion designers and labels from around the world will meet in London next week for the annual Pure London Fashion Trade Show which runs from July 24 to 26, and Durban’s hottest young designers were winging their way to the UK capital this week to showcase their designs at the prestigious event.
The trip has been organised by the KZN Fashion Council (KZNFC), with managing director Palesa Kwitshana saying, “Pure London is the UK’s most dynamic fashion gathering, where over 700 brands come to exhibit.
“Highlighting the industry’s established and emerging designers, this event is at the forefront of capturing the surge of current street trends in the fashion industry and aims to celebrate the work of international designers worldwide.”
The Independent on Saturday met some of the designers who were gearing up to fly out on Thursday night.
Pengelly designer Skye van Wyk said: “I’m really excited, I’ve got some meetings in place already and hoping to make the most of it. The event is attended by a ton of buyers, retail and boutique as well as fashion bloggers and writers.”
She added that having recently adopted a little boy, she has immersed herself in Zulu culture which is reflected in her new range which she is taking to London.
“The colours are very bright and very vibrant, while my core collection is bleached denim and there is already a global focus on African print.
The twist to her collection is accessorising with military belts which can be worn over skirt and pants.
And for uMlazi designer, Sanele Cele, who is already the “go to” designer for wellknown musos, the military influence is very on-trend, using 100 percent cotton.
“My strong points are my shirts and jackets and you can’t go wrong with denim, it’s always the way, especially in men’s fashion.
Amanda Govender of Amanda May Designs said her collection was in her favoured classic style.
“But I have given it a modern edge and added in elements of Africa’s uniqueness with African prints. There is amazing talent in this country, we must look at who we are and take it to the world,” said Govender.
Formerly from Russia, Larisa Terblanche who founded Larisa Moda agreed with Govender regarding KZN’s depth of talent.
“I came to this country 11 years ago and there is such a lot of creativity here and a certain spirituality.
“I will be taking a summer collection. As a mother of two young children, I enjoy the challenge of creating fashion that keeps you looking young, yet is sophisticated. I like using lace and draping with perforated fabrics,” said Terblanche.
Other KZN designers who have also been chosen to attend by the KZN Fashion Council are Franco Pinheiro – Shwe, Chevonne Chetty – Blaklisted, Laurie Eric Holmes – Holmes Brothers and Yolande Louw – YL Jewellery.