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Last Update:
17:49 06 May 13
Mother City sets the trends
Fashion Editor Alexis Chaffe of 36boutiques.com was among the media attending Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town. Four days, and twenty six designers later – she’s ready for summer.
Last week, Africa Fashion International (AFI) celebrated 10 years of fashion, by rounding up 26 of South Africa’s leading designers to show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town. Their partnership with Mercedes-Benz places South Africa firmly on the design map, alongside heavy weight fashion capitals New York, London and Milan.
Cape Town proved their place on the global stage, with an impressive representation of international trends adapted for our local market. SA media mingled with European press, while stylishly clad celebrities took their seats to see just what our home grown talent had to offer for spring/summer 2012-13.
This year, the Cape Town City Hall became the setting for Kluk's CGDT "Bedtime Stories" collection, which fused fairytale characters with fashion in a spectacular theatrical event.
Though there were several impressive shows worth mentioning, the opening night Kluk CGDT collection was a significant high point. Their signature style of mixing textures and prints with unique flare has always been revealed in a dramatic and powerful show. Fringed 20s inspired flapper dresses like this won hearts.
No stranger to the spotlight himself, Johannesburg local Thula Sindi got the media talking with his dark 'Trash Chic' collection. Edgy biker jackets layered sexy faux-leather pieces, juxtaposed by bold prints. It may not have been the light spring/summer collection expected from the designer, but there will certainly be some best sellers to come out a ready-to-wear line like this paisley print blouse and trouser suit.
Another designer to receive thunderous applause was Stefania Morland. Inspired by Marie Antoinette, Stefania used a pastel palette of silk to craft a romantic and luxurious collection which most women will be adding to their spring lust-have list.
Key trends of the week included metallic details, sheer fabrics, pastels, neon brights and summer white. David Tlale showed an all white collection in the heart of Bo Kaap.
If you have an eye for print; look out for floral, neo-tribal graphic designs and paisley, which look set to dominate our wardrobes this season. Feminine floral print dresses from Habits are a must have.
Peplums and flared skirts ruled as the signature feminine shape for the season, the '20s-inspired drop waist dress also made a comeback. The peplum was a strong feature of Gavin Rajah's 'Luminescent Luxury' collection.
The number one accessory was the oversized clutch; fringed, embroidered, or bright coloured leather - make sure your bag makes a statement this season.
Speaking of loud accessories, when it came to neckpieces: the bolder the better. So don't be shy to add a little wow to your summer wardrobe. Michelle Ludek’s summer collection popped with neon highlights such as these chunky bracelets.
La Lesso created unique Khanga-inspired prints, with beaded neckpieces by Pichulik. If the buzzing atmosphere at the CTICC this week was anything to go by, we have a fashion-filled summer to look forward to.
I can't wait to see how South African women adapt the runway looks to the street, after all, fashion is worth nothing until you make it your own.
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