The Connexions initiative seeks to grow the already established fashion community beyond the Midwest
In a bid to bring together diverse thought leaders in global fashion and design, the Midwest Fashion Week introduced a bespoke offering that focuses on a small group of designers across product lines.
The project dubbed Connexions will take place in Parktown North, Joburg, in late September.
According to the event’s curator, who is also an Art and Fashion Director at Gallery MOMO, Odysseus Shirindza, the spectacular live fashion show will give designers a chance to bring their brand vision to life outside of the conventional runway presentation as participating designers will be allocated a space to creatively display their signature designs in the form of a static installation and a live model.
“The Connexions initiative seeks to grow the already established fashion community beyond the Midwest and open up markets for designers based in other parts of the world through a series of regional events.
“The day will culminate in a spectacular live fashion show showcasing the designs of each of the participating designers, as well as dialogue with key opinion leaders in fashion and art, facilitated by well-respected industry personalities. Such opportunities and networks will help the designers to further grow their businesses and brand visibility on a global scale,” said Shirindza.
Hosted by seasoned ABC news anchor and Emmy Award-winning journalist, Lionel Moise, the showcase will take place a day after Heritage Day to commemorate the holiday while empowering young creatives to exhibit their talents.
Shirindza will exhibit his Arnreuby collection alongside his fellow designers such as Berny Martin, Carol Bouwer, Reggi Xaba, Nokwanda Ngcobo, Heather Marie Designs and Inga Gubeka.
Nokwanda Ngcobo, who will be showcasing her 8thWandah collection, said it was a great honour and privilege for her to be chosen to be among such illustrious artists.
She is also filled with excitement as sharing the same space with fellow designers might help ignite her spark and inspire her future work.
“Truly looking forward to the magic of all the designers/artisans showcasing.
“I have had the privilege of seeing Odysseus and Reggie's work before.
“I am looking forward to seeing Carol Bouwer’s work as a handbag designer, as well as our international counterparts Berny Martin and Heather Marie,” said Ngcobo.
Another designer, Berny Martin of MidWest Fashion Week and the brains behind the Connexions projects, said that he was inspired by the beauty of South Africa and intends to showcase how the country is a breath-taking environment. The inspiration for his current collection stems from his African travel experiences.
“Our objective is to facilitate dialogue between the Midwest region (of the US) and South Africa.
“Connecting with Africa is what I am looking forward to the most.
“I am also looking forward to networking with South African designers and forming new connections,” said Martin.
Sunday Independent