Durban - A glamorous forecast for next year’s chilly months was showcased at the SA Fashion Week Autumn Winter 2015 Collections in Johannesburg last week.
From snug to skimpy, demure to daring, the event featured 45 designers – some established icons in the industry and others, rising stars.
Durban representation was thinner than in previous years, with Colleen Eitzen, Mike Narainsamy and eight young designers from the KZN Fashion Council flying the flag for the city. Eitzen’s glamorous range of black, white and grey with floral prints, embossed jackets and faux fur was a hit.
“I used a variety of shapes, styles and fabrics to illustrate how to mix and match. I wanted to embrace the concept of dressing like a lady – every girl needs some glamour in her life,” she said.
Gert-Johan Coetzee used the platform to highlight the problem of HIV. The image of the virus under a microscope provided a basis for the abstract print in his collection along with an infinity diamond print, the diamond shape symbolising armour and protection.
“That is what I want for everyone infected and affected by HIV,” he said.
Former Durbanite, Leigh Schubert, who now lives in Cape Town, combined “computer” and “craft” – handmade and electronically-produced versions of knitwear and cutting details.
“This has been an exploration of warmth for me,” she said, “Now that I live in Cape Town I understand what winter is about and how to dress for it.”
Clive Rundle used the classic trench coat as inspiration for an edgy Gothic range in black and prints while Rubicon presented glamour and sophistication.
Menswear featured strongly this year.
Mike Narainsamy launched his Charthu label with a classic range in autumn tones, black and splashes of colour. It honoured the heritage of 30 years of tailoring by the Narainsamy family in Durban.
Future talent was given a platform in the KZN Fashion Council and the Renault New Talent Shows.
The focus of SAFW is The Business of Fashion and its goal is to promote the development of the industry. The Buyers’ Lounge hosted 50 designer labels and gave boutique owners and department buyers a chance to interact.
Pictures: Ivan Naude and Simon Deiner /SDR Photo
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