Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Africa : Day 1

(All photo credits SDR Photography)

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Africa is considered the granddaddy of them all by the continent and opening night was full of showstoppers, surprises and stumbles graceful falls. When it comes to nailing next season it’s clear it’s all in the sheer. It’s the trend that dared to bare and won and remains a statement to make in Spring/Summer 2015 if last night’s runway was anything to go by.

Thousands of fashion industry icons, young local talent and international media descended upon Melrose Arch, Johannesburg, for the continent’s premier trans-seasonal fashion showcase, to celebrate not only Africa’s newfound identity as a trend-setter, but one with a clothing and textile industry now able to rival any in the world.

 

Kibonen NY

Intisaar

Kibonen NY kicked off the star studded evening with a collection inspired by the Cameroonian designer’s memories of the colourful marketplace in her hometown, Bamenda. The result was a resplendent scene alive with colour. Signature prints and bold stripes made for a ferosh blend, ideal for mixing and matching. Sensual silhouettes were also adapted for functional daywear.

The Intisaar Collection closely followed with eye popping colour block, navel grazing crops and lust-have throw overs. The Zimbabwean designer’s line remained faithful to its signature reflection of rural African dress with wrapped, knotted and draped pieces of cloth. A spin on popular geometric inspirations created striking shapes and silhouettes around the female figure.

Next to rock the runway were the 6 Elle Rising Star finalists but it was Tamara Dyson who came out on top. The winner’s collection wowed with woollen warmers, peek-a-boo sheer and the crowd went crazy for the chic sleeveless, oversized jacket. Monochrome two pieces embraced curvilinear looks, while looser silhouettes were teamed with shorts. But it was the metallic bomber jacket that sent us over the edge.

Elle Rising Star Winner: Tamara Dyson 

CHARIS DAWSON's collection was THE definition of fashion 2.0. With back packs donning computer mother boards, tantalising shimmer and futuristic prints the pieces certainly oozed an other-worldly feel. While the backless sheer screamed sophisticated sex appeal.

Kelli Botha’s collection got us hot under the collar with her fetching fetish leather ensembles. Again it was a master class in monochrome with waist-clinching knee grazers, and masculine pant suits airing an element of feminine charm, were teamed with trench coats and leather jackets.

Nadia Vilogen Ermelo

Mille Collines’ Nyamijyosi collection gave us a sneak peak at their street line, a first for the label and their boldest yet. Statement tees and novelty necklaces screamed attitude, perfectly matching their song choice “bringing attitude hard”. But the main focus was on their formal / evening wear. Sharp lined maxi’s and midi’s graced the runway with sheer layers and even a pop of patent fetish. A metallic strip made a marvellous addition to the timeless mac and several ensembles boasted street edge handcrafted accessories, our hero being the Sk8 Shades.

There’s a reason Taibo Bacar was the first African brand to display at Milan Fashion Week because that show was INTENSE. He was the hot ticket and easily the most anticipated event of the evening and the Pret-A-Couture collection did not disappoint. Organza and fake fur “capulana” and beads, brocades, georgette and mesh made for some interestingly fabulous combos. Italian vogue meets African Print sprang to mind as Van Goughesque waves, flower lace, gothic chic, elegant A lines, transparent ponchos and fetching fetish strutted down the runway. He gave us a taste of what is truly A LUTA CONTINUA “the struggle continues”, inspired by current situation of Mozambique, and deserved every standing ovation, wolf whistle and applause he got as he skipped down the runway between his poised models.

 

Taibo Bacar