DAVID Tlale flew the South African flag at the prestigious Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York at the Pavillion at the Lincoln Centre on Sunday night.

In what can be considered a fashion coup, Tlale managed to rope in the services of male super-model Tyson Beckford who opened and closed the show for him. The two last worked together in 2009 at the same fashion week.

"Working with Tyson has been amazing as we grow as a brand in the US. In 2009 we worked with him. It was really amazing, but showcasing him as a solo brand has been phenomenal. Working with super-models like that is an endorsement and amazing cherry on top," said Tlale on his Spring/Summer 2015 show.

Speaking to Sowetan yesterday, Tlale said this season's collection was more elevated because the David Tlale signature is growing overseas and more people are becoming more receptive.

''Our story and journey of making women beautiful continues and has become better with time because we pay attention to detail and finishing and we strive for a better fit."

With Simphiwe Dana's Ndimiqhawe blaring in the background Tlale presented a show that featured 17 African models he called 17 Shades of Black in celebration of being African.

The collection, themed Feminine Allure was dominated by paradise peach and Vlisco print.

"What is humbling is that we find buyers and private clients at our show. We are building relationships with agents that will represent David Tlale in the US. And also being consistent has helped. This has been our fifth season on schedule and we are here to stay."

This is Tlale's second showing this year at New York Fashion Week. The first was in February.

"We are gaining momentum with every show," he added.

mofokengl@sowetan.co.za

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