Go your own way, say fashion gurus

‘When you have your own style and imprint, there is no need to follow a trend, you become one’

SUSTAINABLE fashion, floral prints, sequinned tailored jackets and just feeling comfortable in one’s own style are among recent trends, say some of South Africa’s internationallyrecognised fashion gurus.

Businesswoman and fashion designer Vanessa Gounden said trends have been developing over the past few seasons.

“Floral prints continue to remain as strong influences. Tailoring continues to have a soft approach with a more casual point of view. We see pastel or sorbet colours carry over from last season.

“The sparkling sequin fabric trend is now evolving into many more product offerings from skirts to jumpsuits,” said Gounden.

She said some closet must-haves for this year are sequin tailored jackets, dresses with interesting necklines, namely off the shoulder, square, sweetheart and big, bold floral prints.

“There is a strong Victorian influence at the moment, with elements of layered ruffles, voluminous sleeves and lace,” said Gounden, who has previously showcased her work at Africa Fashion Week London, Paris Fashion Week, London Fashion Week and New York Fashion Week.

Nivasha Bhika Beharie, fashion stylist, designer and lecturer, said “when you have your own style and imprint, there is no need to ‘follow’ a trend, you become one.

“I am totally in for sustainable fashion, recycled fashion, slow fashion and a holistic approach to where fashion needs to be. Quality is key here; take the time to think if the pieces suit your style and if you can see yourself wearing them for a long time. It’s best to start with basics. When something breaks, check to see how you can get it repaired before you toss it,” she added.

She said it was all about being fashionably responsible for the planet.

“Buy a garment that will not go out of fashion quickly; invest in timeless pieces,” she advised.

In keeping with South Africa’s increased humidity, natural fibres such as cotton were always a go-to if one wanted to keep cool.

“Loose fitting flowy tops or dresses. There are amazing African hand-painted cotton garments out there. Natural fabrics allow your body and skin to breathe and are always the healthiest option in the heat. Keeping comfortable will always be the best advice in humid weather; just dress it up with accessories,” said Beharie.

Durban North designer, Deven Hurku of Get Elevated, said that every person had a different style, adding that it was good to always have something fashionable yet comfortable.

“The mermaid fitted look is in at the moment. It’s a good fit on the hips and flare’s a little at the leg.

This, paired with a high leg slit and low cleavage, is definitely in at the moment,” she said.

Neil Ramautar, stylist and make-up artist, said while romantic looks were very much on trend, this year was all about sustainable fashion.

“Brands are highly conscientious about sustainable fashion,” he said.

Ramautar said that floral print and sheer clothing were in again.

“Most of the clothing, especially dresses that I’m selling are made of cotton due to the humidity,” he said.

Cape Town-based fashion designer, Gavin Rajah, believes the focus is less on trends and more on how fashion impacts people.

“I think the obsession with trends needs to stop. You must be comfortable in your own style. It needs to be something that empowers you,” he said.

South African model, actress and fashion designer Gabriella Demetriades said it was not only about making fashion sustainable, but about re-using, refining and recycling.

Demetriades collaborated with sustainable fashion fabric brand Liva.

She told Ianslife, that like the rest of the world she had been blinded by “our usage of no sustainable products and fashion is a huge contributor.

“Liva has great fluidity and is 100% nature-based fabric that adds beautiful flow to the garments, therefore the creation not only looks good, but it is also very comfortable to wear. I also run a luxury resale portal which is 100% sustainable and zero waste for me,” she said.

Bollywood diva Priyanka Chopra Jonas said fashion for her was “spontaneity”.

The actress is known for her impeccable fashion sense and turns heads with her look at public appearances.

In a conversation with Ianslife, Jonas – who made a comeback on the ramp at the finale of Blenders Pride Fashion Tour last week – said she chose clothing that made her feel good.

“I always choose to wear things that make me feel good... and I’d say this to young, emerging designers that go out there and make clothes that you believe in.

My fashion is usually a reflection of how I’m feeling that day and the outcome of my discussions with my stylists,” said Jonas.