Jeunes créateurs, a concept that came about in Paris in the 1970s, seems to be upon us again, with the emergence of an almost youthful, colorful and even playful flair in the way designers seem to be creating now. The shift arrives just in time for the festive season as luxe-lovers emerge out of prolonged lockdown and quarantine modes. A handful of African designers are catering to this newfound freedom with elaborate, cutting-edge collections set to stir a fashion frenzy.
STYLIST AND COMPILED BY KEABETSWE MAFORA
ART DIRECTION: LUCY NKOSI
PHOTOGRAPHY: KATLEGO MOKUBYANE; NEWKATZ STUDIO
MAKE-UP: VANESSA UNAMACA; MAKOLEMADE BEAUTY
LOCATION: THE HOUGHTON HOTEL – ROCKSTAR PENTHOUSE
MELODY MOLALE – Digital creator and luxury lifestyle enthusiast, South Africa
Port of LNG Emerald jewel dress
– ZAR33,000 / $2,161; Thomas Sabo Orange Stone Drop Earrings with Star –ZAR4,950 / $324; Thomas Sabo Large Stone cocktail ring – ZAR3,725 / $244; Rose gold watch: Bulova Ladies Diamond (Bella Luna) – ZAR5,840 / $382
FEZILE MAKHANYA – Actor/Presenter, South Africa
Port of LNG Citrine Unorthodox Suit – ZAR30,000 / $1,963; Thomas Sabo Marble Obsidian Bead Bracelet – ZAR3,225 / $211; Thomas Sabo Two-Tone Beaded Bracelet– ZAR3,725 / $242; Brown Watch: GUESS Collection Gents Chronograph (Bella Luna) – ZAR8,999 / $589
Thebe Magugu Belted Contrast- Stitch Cotton Wraparound Jacket – ZAR19,700 / $1290; Thebe Magugu Contrast-Stitch Cotton Wide-Leg Trousers – ZAR8,437 / $552; Thomas Sabo Multicolored Wing Earrings – ZAR6,475 / $424; Thomas Sabo Multicolour Parrot Pendant – ZAR12,450 / $816; Plain Necklace – ZAR1,225 / $80; Europa Art (Schutz) – ZAR1,990 / $130
Port of LNG Emerald Double Breast Suit – ZAR28,000 / $1,834; Port of LNG Black Pleated Belt – ZAR10,000 / $655; Port of LNG White Shirt – ZAR3,000 / $196; Port of LNG Bow Tie – ZAR500 / $33; Europa Art Karl Desert-Green – ZAR3,290 / $215