GENDER FREE

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. 

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.

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.

NEW MOOD // SS14

Modern Versatility that speaks confidence, individuality and ease,  while catering for the fashion forward consumer.  A cross over to the dark side of summer with Witchery SS14.

NICK COUTTS

INTRODUCING NICK COUTTS, WINNER OF THE 2013 ELLE RISING STAR DESIGN AWARD IN ASSOCIATION WITH MRP. AS PART OF HIS PRIZE, NICK WAS INVITED TO CREATE A CAPSULE COLLECTION EXCLUSIVE TO MRP.

Adriaan Kuiters + Jody Paulsen AW14 Campaign

I have always had great admiration for the brand adriaan Kuiters, mainly ( more now than before) for the new approach to South African menswear, which seems to be a somewhat of a transition from the aesthetic we came to know three years ago. What began as a mere admiration turn into a strong love affair when the collaboration with my once upon a crush, artist Jody Paulsen began amid the MBFWCT last year.

SOL-SOL | A calm breeze — first collection

Shop the collection which consists of basic menswear staple pieces like parka's, tee's, caps, beanies and chinos here.

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PICHULIK AW14

My love with Pichulik developed somewhat two years ago when the mutual collaboration with fashion brand Lalesso created  a marriage between the Lalesso fabrics with the Pichulik ropes and accessories (see here) , this love if fueled with great admiration and African pride each season. The AW14 campaign lookbook was photographed by Danielle Klopper with amazing  styling by Leonie von Hase and modeled by Mignonne van Eeden.

 This collection is inspired by the photography of Helmut Newton and his intimate portraits of powerful women in their own personal spaces.  Jewellery is worn close to a woman’s skin, brushes her neck, clasps her earlobe. AW 2014 invites our brave lady on some close up encounters. With jewel tones and wooden parts, suede and agate stones and tassels, this collection skirts the glamour of 70s disco, and the soul of psychedelia. Kick those platforms off and dance on those carpeted floors and wooden-clad lounges till the dawn meets your cat-lined eyes.

Shop the AW14 collection here. 

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