For Daniel Moleka, co-owner of RedThread Apparel X, which recently showcased at the first ever street fashion show in conjunction with the Cannes Film Festival, Cannes was a very good experience.
He says, “I’ve learnt a lot about the industry internationally and have fallen in love with the city. I had a chance to talk to fellow designers there like JMH, Fabrice Zaady Sullivan and many others, as well as with Virgil Abloh, the creative director of Louis Vuitton, whom he met at an event. They have been in the industry for quite a long time and it was wonderful that The Immortal Collection was appreciated by all and it has been a tremendous honour to have been invited to showcase again next year.
What I’ve learnt from my trip is that I still have a lot to learn. The industry is extremely big. They pay minute attention to detail and craftsmanship. The detail that goes into designing is very challenging. There are many elements to a garment, such as small things like using fabric covered buttons or mass produced plastic buttons, the trim on a pocket, using different fabrics together for instance suede and silk. There are endless possibilities. Ultimately the consumer is king. They need to feel unique.”
Daniel has also been invited to showcase in Paris this year. However, he realises that he should possibly really refocus his attention on craftsmanship and on processing all he has learnt from Cannes.
The future certainly looks bright for Daniel who will be going into a collaboration with Issa Leo owner, Issa Lopez, who produces iconic garments aimed at the modern man. Together, they aim to create a unique and exciting blend of elegant wear and street clothing. The launch will take place at 17h00 on 15 June at 75 Loop Street.
Daniel with Issa Leo owner, Issa Lopez.
Daniel will also be showcasing for the first time at SA Men’s Week(SAMW). He says it’s a blessing and a very good opportunity to show the Immortal Collection to the South African market. He will be showcasing at 15h00 on 7 July. Tickets are available on the SAMW website.
When the brand attained a certain level, Daniel wasn’t able to finance it himself any longer and approached Rawbank, a leading commercial bank in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.