GENDER FREE

SIMON & MARY AW15

LUMINANCE

 
 

LUKHANYO MDINGI FW15 LOOKBOOK

I am always fascinated by the resurgence of minimalism, particularly taking into account that the trend never went away completely; however Lukhanyo Mdingi's AW15 collection redefines the nature of minimalism we have often encountered. Cleped "Macramé", the collection plays around with the use of different textures and fabrication yet maintaining the minimal aesthetic that’s based on creating strong and distinct pieces we have came to know. The range also draws influences from the Arabic knotting technique. 

Photography: Travys Owen, Styling: Gabrielle Kannemeyer, Grooming: Amori Birch, Model: Daniel Phahlamohlake.

BLACK BETTY SHAPESHIFTERS

There is something I find rather vain  yet charming about a woman who incorporate jewellery in her everyday ensemble. If there above shapeshifters collection by Black Betty is anything to go by, then one does not need an ensemble to exude charm, more especially if the refinery is dear to you.

Inspired by the notion of African Geometry, found in everything from the the cities’ overarching skyscrapers, Cape-fold mountains and interesting graphic patterns of the continent’s design language, the Shapeshifter Range is an expression of this fertile land and its evolving shapes. These silhouettes have been interpreted into angular-designed earrings, necklaces, rings and pendants using diamonds and black and gold rhodium plated silver. As the name suggests, although these facets of the city, it’s natural surrounds and textured products seemed fixed to the naked eye, they are continuously growing and changing and as the ages and decades pass so too does their energy and the way they are perceived, reminding us to do the same. 

I love the use of one of the elements of inspiration (architectural city landscapes) in the lookbook.  photography by Lar Rattray | jewellery (Also, shop the range) by Black Betty .

SELFI SS15 LOOKBOOK

I have came to know Selfi for the youthful minimalism that is sometimes sharp with clean folds, a celebration of thy self  that is not only wearable but timeless.

Selfi makes a transition away from muted tones for its Spring/Summer 15 with the use of bold colors and print.  A somewhat androgynous collection that draws influences from the 90's with tailored shirts and oversized shift dresses. The cut and folds of the garments create a windswept the illusion. Taking inspiration from 1920s abstract expressionism, collage art and the work of late Spanish painter and sculptor, Joan Miró, Selfi presents a playful, dreamlike state of mind by incorporating abstract elements from nature. Finding motivation from the scarves, oversized cardigans, maxi skirts and large tote bags donned by elderly women. Shop the lookbook online here. 

MUNGO AND JEMIMA

Yayness! Your call has been heard, local boutique Mungo and Jemima has joined the link in the e-commerce chain by launching their online store, along with their summer/spring 14/15 lookbook.  The online retail space will play host to collections by Hannah, GOOD, Coppelia, Selfi and many others.

We know our Joburg customers in particular will be thrilled. We get messages weekly asking for our ranges to be available online.

Also, M&J is officially open at the Watershed in the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town. Get summer ready  by shopping the new collections here.

ANISA MPUNGWE FOR MRP

Anisa Mpungwe, designer of Loin Cloth and Ashes continues her journey with MRP with yet another collaboration. The collection plays with visual that draw influences from traditional Africa striking prints in bold and bright hues with Nigeria being a major focus. 

I recently travelled through Africa where I was seduced by the energy of African cities. During my travels, I attended a wedding in Nigeria where I noticed how people embrace colour. They weren't afraid to be loud and expressive, both vocally and in dress! I also enjoyed how people followed current fashion trends while staying true to their African roots.

I absolutely love the energetic print juxtaposition in straight and structured cuts yet still conscious about feminine form. The range is available at selected MRP stores and online here.

PICHULIK | BARAKA

Amazing local jewellery brand Pichulik freshly launched their S/S15 Lookbook. Habitually drawing influences from the rich, vibrant and eclectic continent of Africa, the brand remains true to this aesthetic while the delicate craftsmanship progresses further North and the Middle East.

Baraka is the beneficent force from god that flows through the physical and spiritual spheres as prosperity, protection and happiness. This collaborative capsule collection is informed by Islamic Mailian architecture of North Africa and the garb of Islamic tribes that wander these lands.

 I am obsessed with the use of more gold and the use of white plains of linen. The collection is available to shop online here. Photography by Kope Figgins and wardrobe Kat van duinen.

LET’S GET TROPSI

Dear Rae, a local Jewellery brand has launched their summer/spring 2015 lookbook which I am super excited to share. The range has maintained the Dear Rae minimalistic form and natural lines aesthetic yet still elegant and sophisticated.

"The range is inspired by the sensations of Summer. The bright sun, cool leafy shade on your face and the feeling of fruity juice running down your chin."

Think summery sweetness and all things tropical, from pineapples to palm trees in glittery silver gold and gold.  The Let's get tropsi  collection is said to launch this Thursday at the Woodstock foundry.

Remember to shop the collection here. 

GARWOOD & GRACE

Garwood and Grace is the up-and-coming young designer swimwear label that has until now been known to just a handful of style, sun and beach loving  Capetonians. The s/s14 range of tailored, quality swim shorts has a distinct St. Tropez just- stepped-off-my-yacht appeal, which is not surprising given founding partner Tiphaine Alston’s credentials: a BA Hons from the UK’s Ravensbourne College, a Masters at the Royal College of Art in London and work experience and commissions from Burberry, Alexander McQueen, Roksanda Ilincic and Victoria’s Secret. But why men’s swimwear? Alston explains: 

When Simon, my husband and “the business brain behind the brand”, and I moved to Cape Town two years ago, we noticed that most men are wearing baggy, unflattering board shorts. As a result, Garwood & Grace came about because I wanted to introduce a tailored, European sensibility to South Africa’s beaches with swim shorts that will be equally at home at a beach bar or restaurant. 

The Summer 2014 prints were inspired by plant textures found in and around Cape Town, by the indigenous fauna found in the North of the country and by rock art observed in the mountain and nature of Cederberg.  Shop the collection online here.