KNOWN for his future-forward and trendy men's designs, Paledi Segapo of Palse Homme has branched out and started a women's line.

Sexy with subtle hints of masculinity, the new Palse Femme range was unveiled exclusively for Sunday World at Emoyeni in Parktown on Thursday.

Much of the collection was a surprise as the expectation was for tailored suits for women.

"I thought it better to surprise people. I don't want to be known for only one thing."

Segapo presented classic red-carpet flowing gowns in cerise, florals and chiffon, an extension of his Fashion Week collection themed "Evil is an opinion" - inspired by the film Interview with the Vampire .

"These are Dracula's women. I wanted the clothes to be feminine but provocative," says Segapo.

The designer, who has dressed singer Kenny Lattimore and Bold and the Beautiful actor Texas Battle, says venturing into women's fashion does not mean the end of Palse Homme. "It's just an extension of the brand. I want the South African woman to wear my clothes and have a variety of options, from corporate beast in the boardroom to fiery vixen at night."

After the official launch at Crowne Plaza, Rosebank, on Wednesday, Segapo will showcase the collection at the Swahili Fashion Week in Tanzania.

Some pieces will become available at shops in March.