Behind the Seams: David Tlale's show reaches its finale

Published Oct 3, 2017

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Reality show The Intern by renowned fashion designer David Tlale is currently one of the most watched shows on the small screen.

The show started airing in July with 12 contestants who are all competing to be Tlale’s next assistant. I recently visited David Tlale’s studio in Maboneng for a behind-the-scenes peek. Here is what I discovered.

The work room

This is like a mini-factory where all the work is done. It’s where the sewing of all Tlale’s collections are made. The public is not invited there.

Threading machine at the work room. Picture: Lebogang Moloto. 

The showroom

Everyone is welcome in the showroom. Tlale normally has his clients in here for enquiries, measurements and just to have a look around at the ready-made clothes.

After seeing his space, I made my way to the interns’ playroom, where they do all their work. It is divided into three sections: the workroom, lounge and bar.

The workroom

This is a big room full of all the equipment where all the design work happens. It’s no surprise to find that it’s a bit messy as a lot

of hard work takes place here. Each intern has their own workstation with threading machines, fabrics, cottons, irons and a whole lot more.

Cyla Gonsolves doing some work.

The lounge

This happens to be the most unused space by the interns as they work around the clock. Like your normal dining area, the lounge has sofas, a television and a mini-kitchen on the side.

The bar

This is my favourite spot in the studio. Unlike the rest, it’s bright and full of life. The inspiration bar by CNA has all the stationery that the interns use for their sketches with a whole lot of magazines and books which they use to draw inspiration from.

Some of the books are much bigger in size than an encyclopedia. This is another reason I like it so much because I love books.

Inspiration bar. Picture: Lebogang Moloto. 

Fashion designing is not as glamorous as the clothes that the designers make.

In reality, it’s a very challenging job and requires great skill.

The winner of the competition will not only be David Tlale’s assistant designer but will also get a fully equipped studio worth R250000, a brand new Mercedes-Benz car and R200000 in cash.

Paper dress made by the interns.

*The Intern by David Tlale will premier a 2 hour final episode this Wednesday at 7.30pm on SABC 3. Sure not to miss it and see who will be David Tlale's next assistant designer. 

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