The Non-conformist Who Wanted To Work At A Church

Published 9 years ago
Bongiwe Walaza

How did your journey into fashion begin?

Whilst working for Telkom I began designing and making dresses for myself and soon built a loyal client base. I wasn’t satisfied with the quality of my dressmaking, I then decided to study and in 1997 enrolled at Natal Technikon for fashion. In my first year at Natal Tech I won my first award, the Du Pont Lycra Award which included a trip to Paris. In my third year, I won the Rothman’s July Young Designer Award. After completing my third year, I entered the M-Net Anglo Gold Africa Designs competition. I was one of the winners and part of the prize was a trip to New York where I got to showcase my range at the New York Fashion Week in 2000. Having my range showcased at the New York Fashion Week opened the door for me to be able to enter and showcase my designs at the SA Fashion Week.

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Where would you be if it wasn’t for fashion?

If it wasn’t for fashion, I think I would be a social worker or a church worker.

 

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Item of clothing every man/woman should splurge on?

An item of clothing I think every woman should splurge on is a 50’s flared, knee length summer dress, with a defined waist line. It’s an all-time classic. Much like the one attached.

 

Your inspiration comes from?

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I’m always inspired by the Sishweshwe prints I use and universal trends mixed with my perceptions of what’s around me and my original background.

 

Your best and worst fashion buy?

Animale, an international clothing brand launched in the early 70s, is my personal style so all my purchases from them are best buys. Also a handmade shoe that I bought from San Marina in Sandton, I really love that shoe. I really can’t think of a worst buy right now because I’m generally so picky when buying things I rarely buy things I don’t like whole-heartedly.

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How would you describe your label?

I would describe it as individualistic, with an afro touch and global appeal. It embraces femininity and it’s for the non-conformist and unconventional woman who knows no boundaries when it comes to going places. It is characterized by significance, timelessness and elegance.

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What would your ultimate

achievement be?

My ultimate achievement would be having my brand being sought after globally.

 

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Career highlight?

I get to travel the world.

 

How long did your MBFWA collection take to put together?

It took me something like two months to put my collection together for the MBFWA.