Durban July: Virtual fashion this year
DURBAN JULY: ENTHUSIASTS TO STRUT THEIR STUFF ONLINE
Those who want to dress up and enter competitions can win big prizes.
It’s that time of the year again where punters, revellers and fashionistas usually gather for the winter event of the year – The Vodacom Durban July. But not this year. Instead, on the 25th, the event will be celebrated with virtual broadcasts, home packages and give-aways for virtual attendees.
Those who want to dress up and enter competitions are encouraged to log in on social media and post pictures of their outfits to win prizes. “Butterflies” is the fashion theme this year.
Siyamthanda Mtshemla is a former fashion magazine editor, fashion designer, stylist and runs the fashion blog www.thebass. co.za http://www.siya-weloveher. tumblr.com.
Mtshemla tells us how the theme should be interpreted.
Q:What would you recommend people wear that fits the theme?
With this year’s theme being “butterflies”, I think people can afford to be a little bit more avant-garde for those who dare to be daring.
For the little less risqué, colour is where they can bring out their daring, bold self.
Q:Bu erflies are bold and bright: What colours should people try?
I think colours like ceruleans, tangerines, reds and oranges, yellows, marine greens and magenta pinks with accents of black, gold or even white to even out the brightness would be a delight to look at.
This is also definitely the time to try out that one design you’ve always wanted to since there won’t be endless walking from the entrance to the marquees.
Q:Is there a subtle way to wear the theme?
The most subtle way would be in simple silhouettes, such as a tailored suit with very little embellishments, a long, short or midi dress – again with few embellishments and simple minimalistic prints.
Q:What shoes should people wear, seeing as they will be watching from home?
To be honest, to keep the aesthetics going throughout, I’d still suggest to people to put their best foot forward. Since there won’t be much walking around, I think they can afford to rock out in the most beautiful pair.
Q:How do you think people should decorate their masks?
The best way to decorate the mask is to make it complement your outfit. Standard fashion rules apply for masks too. Play around with different fabrics and colours.
Designer Paledi Segapo is the owner of fashion house Palse and Palse homme. Segapo has been commissioned by the Vodacom Durban July organisers to adorn TV presenters Mpume and RobotBoy in Palse. Mpume and RobotBoy will host the virtual lockdown house party that will be aired live on TV. Segapo feels that this offers scope for an array of options and for him it’s all up to personal interpretation ... anything goes.
Q:What do you think men should look out when planning their outfits?
For guys it can get tricky. No one wants to appear on social media as though they’ve just completed a metamorphosis of some sort.
Q:You are known as a designer that focuses on men’s clothing – what are your tips for men?
1. Butterfly print – pocket square
2. Shirts with minimal butterfly prints.
3. Various bright hues resembling butterfly colours, summery and bright. Play with the theme.
4. Hats and chiffon – butterfly with prints.
5. Dont forget the importance of masks with the current pandemic. Wear a facial mask with butterfly prints. Masks are the way to go.
6. For the fashion brave, a butterfly printed suit, preferably mismatched, will be key. Clashing prints are the ultimate statement and are sure to get plenty of online attention.