PICS: Gavin Rajah takes us "Back To The Future" #AFICTFW

Gavin Rajah steers haute couture in a bold new direction with an 80’s-inspired collection that brings back the era’s finest design influences - and most spirited activism.

Gavin Rajah Resort 2018 at AFI Cape Town Fashion Week. (Pic: Simon Deiner/SDR Photo)

Underground street culture, graffiti as art, and the power of fashion utilising art as a tool for activism – all of which peaked in the 80’s - are themes which are woven into the new season pieces. Gavin interestingly notes the dual nature of this season’s collection: fashion is constnaly re-inventing itself, yet at the same time paying homage to this exciting era.

Gavin Rajah Resort 2018 at AFI Cape Town Fashion Week. (Pic: Simon Deiner/SDR Photo)

“The greatest aspect of looking back is the luxury of handpicking only the very best elements.” - Gavin Rajah

The result is a fun, wearable collection, totally sweeping the style stakes when it comes to sports luxe. A combination of luxurious silk devore chiffons with vivid crepes mixed with PVC and vinyls, the collection can be deconstructed and worn as separates, or as a total look. Style lovers will note that each piece features the atelier’s signature use of interesting embellishments and high-end finishes.

Gavin Rajah Resort 2018 at AFI Cape Town Fashion Week. (Pic: Simon Deiner/SDR Photo)

“The collection is a distinct statement in looking forward – optimistically – to a new world, and a new era,” says Gavin, who reflects on the issues South Africa is facing as a nation, and how through liberation movements, both past and present, we have been able to grasp the globe’s attention.

Here's a look at the collection.