The evening featured cutting-edge fashion, lateral creative thought and lively support for each of the students as the judges stressed over the tough task of reducing the twenty five semi-finalists to ten finalists.
For the crowd that enjoyed the landmark fashion event, the runway provided excellent insight into ways to interpret the theme “Stars of Africa”, with students using ideas, shapes and silhouettes rooted in traditional African culture and then steering these concepts into contemporary and often futuristic outfits.
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The panel of judges, which included Durban design stalwart Greg Wallace, Sindi Shangase of the Durban Fashion Fair and Invited Designer Kathrin Kidger, enthused over the depth of interpretation of the theme and the high level of construction.
“There were beautiful elements of colourful bead-work, handcrafted detailing, self-designed and printed fabrics – it was exceptional,” she said.
Trends to look out for in this year’s competition include, Tribal sandals as well as traditional hats and headwear.
Menswear has made a bold statement at the competition this year, and three of the finalists are bold traditionally-inspired Men’s outfits.
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The finalists in this year’s competition are:
Nosipho Ngcobo, Noxolo Ngabane, Nonjabulo Mfuphi, Mthobisi Hlongwane (all Pietermaritzburg School of Fashion Design), Tanyaradzwa Tirivanhu, Wandile Mbhele, Siphiwo Buthelezi (all Durban University of Technology), Makhosazane Ntshangase, Bongekile Funeka, Thobile Dlamini (all Lindiwe Khuzwayo Academy of Fashion Design).
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