THE African Fashion International (AFI) Mercedez-Benz Fashion Week Johannesburg launched in style at the Wits Art Museum by showcasing garments created in collaboration between designers and their mentees.
The launch, which took place on Monday night in Braamfontein, reinforced the commitment AFI has made to the development of the next generation of fashion designers.
Award-winning designer Thula Sindi, who mentored Angie Masike from Soweto, modestly said he did not think he was cut out for the job.
"But I could not turn down an opportunity to impart what I know to another designer.
"It was a pleasure working with Masike and for once I had a second opinion on my creative input. I am happy with the end product and wish her all the best in the future," Sindi said.
Masike was equally excited, sharing how Sindi gave some of his time selflessly.
"I was overwhelmed by his kindness and his availability at all times to assist me with the two garments I made for this project.
I now have more confidence to continue as he encouraged my creative flair," she said.
An announcement made on the night was the partnership between AFI and the City of Johannesburg.
MMC for economic development Ruby Mathang said: "Partnering with AFI to host these leading fashion events puts Joburg on a global platform as a fashion industry leader, along with cities like Berlin, New York and London.
"These showcases of excellence in fashion design provided unprecedented opportunities to communicate a strong message that Johannesburg was well and truly open for global fashion design businesses, providing a unique lifestyle destination for fashion tourists and buyers."
AFI executive chairwoman, Precious Moloi-Motsepe, said: "My heart-felt belief, underpinned by research and market understanding, is that Africa holds the promise of a positive future for the production and consumption of luxury goods and fashion."
The fashion show will also take place next month from March 7-9 at Mary Fitzgerald Square in the Newtown Cultural Precinct, with two other shows at off-site venues to be confirmed.
The line-up of designers this season includes the likes of David Tlale, Sindi, Suzaan Heyns and Fabiani. - motaud@sowetan.co.za
Fashion show puts Jozi on global grid
THE African Fashion International (AFI) Mercedez-Benz Fashion Week Johannesburg launched in style at the Wits Art Museum by showcasing garments created in collaboration between designers and their mentees.
The launch, which took place on Monday night in Braamfontein, reinforced the commitment AFI has made to the development of the next generation of fashion designers.
Award-winning designer Thula Sindi, who mentored Angie Masike from Soweto, modestly said he did not think he was cut out for the job.
"But I could not turn down an opportunity to impart what I know to another designer.
"It was a pleasure working with Masike and for once I had a second opinion on my creative input. I am happy with the end product and wish her all the best in the future," Sindi said.
Masike was equally excited, sharing how Sindi gave some of his time selflessly.
"I was overwhelmed by his kindness and his availability at all times to assist me with the two garments I made for this project.
I now have more confidence to continue as he encouraged my creative flair," she said.
An announcement made on the night was the partnership between AFI and the City of Johannesburg.
MMC for economic development Ruby Mathang said: "Partnering with AFI to host these leading fashion events puts Joburg on a global platform as a fashion industry leader, along with cities like Berlin, New York and London.
"These showcases of excellence in fashion design provided unprecedented opportunities to communicate a strong message that Johannesburg was well and truly open for global fashion design businesses, providing a unique lifestyle destination for fashion tourists and buyers."
AFI executive chairwoman, Precious Moloi-Motsepe, said: "My heart-felt belief, underpinned by research and market understanding, is that Africa holds the promise of a positive future for the production and consumption of luxury goods and fashion."
The fashion show will also take place next month from March 7-9 at Mary Fitzgerald Square in the Newtown Cultural Precinct, with two other shows at off-site venues to be confirmed.
The line-up of designers this season includes the likes of David Tlale, Sindi, Suzaan Heyns and Fabiani. - motaud@sowetan.co.za
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