Tiamara takes wing
Q: What inspired you to get into fashion?
A: I gained my inspiration while in high school. Being an art student, I had to do an exhibition during my matric year.
I did a range of dresses using recyclable materials such as directory paper, bin packets and tissue paper.
This started my flare for fashion.
Q: What can we expect from you at this year’s show?
A: My range is a transforming range which is inspired by the process in which the caterpillar transforms into a butterfly and the story of rebirth.
Q: What does the theme After Earth mean to you?
When everything is destroyed and gone, when strangers surround you, will you be able to accept change? And adapt to this new life you are given?
To me it is about being able to allow yourself to become who you were meant to be.
Q: How have you evolved from the first year of studying fashion to now being in third year?
A: My first year of studying was the most difficult because everything was new to me and I had no knowledge of the technicality behind fashion design, leave alone how to construct a garment.
But now, thanks to the skills I have gained while being at Durban University of Technology, through lecturers who have instilled so much knowledge and skill in me, I was able to construct a range of seven outfits.
Q: Can you describe your designs and the decision behind the colours and fabrics?
A: My designs are inspired by the silhouettes and shapes of the caterpillar and the butterfly. I have used three striking colours, along with shades of grey, which were also inspired from the butterfly.
Q: How long did it take you to design these garments and how much did it cost?
A: I started constructing my garments in July and I had them completed during the first week of September, so it took me about two months. My range really broke my bank, or should I rather say my father’s bank, but it was a good investment.
Q: What are your plans after your studies?
A: My plan is to gain as much experience in the fashion industry as I possibly can, before I become an independent entrepreneur.
Q: What’s your view on local designers. Do you think South Africa has a lot of talent?
I think local designers are underestimated because there is so much talent in South Africa and especially Durban – a lot of young talent has emerged from Durban University of Technology and continues to do so.
Due to the fact that it is still a growing industry, recognition does not come easily. However, there are platforms which assist in the recognition of upcoming designers, such as Durban Fashion Fair, KZNFC and SA Fashion week.
Q: Do you think that local and upcoming designers enjoy the support of the community, and if not, why not?
A: Yes, I think local designers enjoy the support of the community, because we have to conquer our own community before we conquer the world. It all starts at home and support can never be bad.
Q: Does your personal style reflect in your garments or not?
My personal style reflects in my garments because I am a person who is out there and I tend to leave a statement, which is what I achieve with garments as well.