The gradual popularity of African prints in South Africa is evident on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and other social media networks where people post their pictures wearing African inspired outfits.
As part of Heritage Month different designers showcased their work to celebrate South Africa and the continent’s rich heritage. One of the designers Bongani Moumakwe showcased his work at the Hammanskraal Fashion Show.
Although South Africans pride themselves in showing off their traditional attires during September, most pack them away once Heritage Month is out of the way
Moumakwe, owner of Keng Clothing says it is important to celebrate our heritage through the clothes we wear not only as South Africans but also as Africans.
“My collection was based on a modern look, very classy with a touch of vintage, looking back from 80s coming back to 2015 with the use of African prints.”
Although South Africans pride themselves in showing off their traditional attires during September, most pack them away once Heritage Month is out of the way.
Moumakwe says designers can help in making the outfits office and everyday appropriate. “Most of the time people do not wear their traditional attires to work, cultural wear can be transformed to be appropriate with things like pencil skirts for office.”
Click below to listen to Moumakwe:
Another Designer Gulaxy Creations owner Mokgadi Letsoalo says people should understand that fashion is evolving and that modernisation has an effect on it.
“We should not shy away from using our material, things that identify us as Africans. However, we should not feel that when we wear something that showcases our tradition it should be Ibeshu or Shibelani, whilst the crop top we see Beyonce wearing, we can do it using African prints, we can showcase our culture by making the clothes modern because times are moving and this does not mean that you are not trying to recognise that you are an African.”
Letsoalo showcased her collection at Fashion Capital on Saturday. Click below to listen to Letsoalo:
Both Moumakwe and Letsoalo are young designers working to make their mark in the industry. They are grateful for the Heritage Month fashion shows as they offer them the opportunity to expose their work.
Moumakwe says it is hard to make it in the industry especially when you are from a rural area. “There is lack of exposure and people also tend to be negative. You often have to proof your point.”
Letsoalo, who is also a Btech Journalism graduate, says marketing one’s brand could also proof difficult.
“I did not go to design school so sometimes it is difficult to know how to go about exposing my work. I use my journalistic knowledge to create contacts, meet new people who will help in building my brand.”
Click below for pictures of Letsoalo’s collection:
Both found it challenging to put together their Heritage Month collections but say it was worth it because they were well received. Moumakwe says this is inspiring him to do more. He plans to get his brand to retail stores across the world and Letsoalo aims to own a boutique.
According to the two African prints are here to stay. “African prints will always to be there because it is the roots, foundation of South Africa and Africa as a whole, it is part of knowing our heritage and being proud of it,” says Moumakwe. Click below for Moumakwe’s collection:
– By Lerato Matlala
