Fashionista benefit Zululand designers
WHO would have thought a fashion designer from eSikhaleni would one day change the narrative of how South African fashion is viewed globally?
This is just what fashion creator Precious Mahlangu of Precious LULU Couture is doing.
She is not only flying the Zululand flag high, but has also represented South Africa abroad.
The proud Zululander recently broke records when she invited other SA designers to be part of the Seychelles Fashion Week, of which she has been part since its launch some years ago.
The fashion show was made up of six local and international designers at Hotel La Digue Lodge.
“It has been a great ride, and I wanted to open a platform for others. Sometimes, once doors are open for people, we close them for others,” explained Precious.
The stylish designer is one of the top SA designers and has been part of numerous fashion shows, both internationally and at home, including London Fashion Week, South Fashion Week, Nigeria Fashion Week, and works as part of Trade and Investment KZN.
Her exquisite designs made her a finalist at the Durban July Fashion Challenge in 2008, and saw her taking third place at the Durban July Avant Garden competition.
She raised eyebrows in 2012 when she scooped Fashion Designer of the Year.
But this energetic designer really rose to stardom as part of the SABC 1 fashion reality show, Raw Silk.
After making it in the industry, Precious wants to use her experience and talent to help others.
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Since her exposure and success, the fashion icon has used her skills and experience to assist Zululand designers who are hungry for growth.
Her aim is not only to empower them, but to grow the industry in Zululand.
“We have many talented designers in the region. We have to start by rebranding Zululand fashion and making everyone aware that we are already a powerhouse with much going on for us," she said.
"The aim is to make sure we feature fashion as part of the many existing events in the region so people can start identifying it as part of life.
“We have so much culture in the area, and we don’t have to compare ourselves with designers from other parts of the province or country.
“We need to create our own identity."
This designer is now establishing a fashion hub to assist young hopefuls in the industry.
“The idea is to open doors for struggling designers and give them a place that caters to them," she explains.
Precious is already playing fairy godmother to many Zululand designers seeking information, and guide them on their journey to success.