BONANG IS THE GIRL FROM IPANEMA
Trendsetter in step with brand’s target market
SOUTH Africa’s “it” glamour girl, Bonang Matheba, is the new face of Ipanema footwear.
This was announced last night at the Radisson Blu hotel in Sandton.
The decision to select her as the brand’s ambassador across Africa was largely supported by the iconic style she has come to showcase over her years in the entertainment industry and her love for all things beautiful.
“We want to engage with our target audiences on the platforms they enjoy and are comfortable with. Bonang’s considerable following on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram enables Ipanema to share its exciting new ranges with a wider audience and truly convey the feeling of summer heat, samba beats and living life to its absolute fullest,” says Donny Christoforakis, managing director at Intershu Distributors.
The 29-year-old media giant has proved to be a leader of the pack when it comes to style, as she was invited to attend New York Fashion Week by several US designers and fashion influencers.
The star was invited to attend by blogger Claire Sulmers and Ty Hunter, who is Beyoncé’s ex-stylist, according to a media statement released by her team recently.With this new venture under her belt, she expressed great excitement.
“It’s truly an honour to be the face of Ipanema Africa – a brand that gives you comfort ensuring you have the most fun, in beautiful sandals,” said Bonang, who is currently the global brand ambassador for Revlon Cosmetics and has a lingerie line with Woolworths.
“Ipanema celebrates the vibrant Brazilian energy so inherent in its culture, colours and people. Bonang was the obvious choice to be the continent’s ambassador as she resonates so deeply with Africa’s unique energy, style and the beauty of its people,” said Christoforakis.
Ipanema shoes are manufactured at the Grendene factory in Brazil, where their first pair of footwear was produced 45 years ago. The factory is also home to some of the world’s biggest shoe brands to partner with major designers, including Phillippe Starck, Vivienne Westwood, Marc Jacobs and Karl Lagerfeld.
Bonang is best known for gracing South African TV screens as the presenter of Top Billing and the Afternoon Express.
The collection will soon be available at leading retail outlets in South Africa.