adminI GOT the shock of my life at Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein, South Africa last week, when I bumped into a guy wearing the shortest pair of shorts I’ve ever seen on a man! I was even more shocked by the sandals.
He wore his bright yellow shorts with a pair of gold gladiators, a white T-shirt and a pair of sunglasses. The guy was heavily accessorised and had a flamboyant hat on.
Neighbourgoods Market was packed to the rafters on that particular day but never did I bump into anyone else dressed like that young man.
No one, absolutely no other soul looked like this guy. I know because I went around the place quite a number of times and I was there for a couple of hours.
Besides, I wouldn’t have missed another pair of “short” shorts and gladiators similar to the ones I’d already seen.
Simplicity in Jozi is never an option. There’s just no chill on the streets! It’s all about expressing individuality and making a statement.
We’re not even talking about the Converse All Star or the bright lipsticks and fancy sunglasses or skimpy dresses during a night out on the town. We’re talking about people slaying the fashion scene on a daily basis.
This is just how it’s supposed to be. Every day, people should make a constant effort to look good.
It doesn’t matter where you’re going — you just have to make the extra effort to look fresh and clean because you just don’t know who you’ll meet as soon as you go around the corner.
The biggest lesson for me has been the power of shoes and accessories. I’ve a shoe fetish, I’m a lover of accessories but I hadn’t realised just how important these two aspects of an outfit are.
You can wear the simplest of outfits one can think of and maximise on your shoes and accessories. You’re probably not one of those extremely confident people like the guy I met at Neighbourgoods Market but you can make the best of what you have and are comfortable in by spicing it up a little bit with shoes and accessories.
I remember having to go to the Joy of Jazz musical festival one evening but was clueless on what to wear. So I hit my fashionista friend up on Skype to discuss my options.
I initially wanted to wear a red blazer, black pants, a white blouse and gold shoes but we decided this just wasn’t going to work. It was a bit too formal. No vava voom.
The next option was a navy blue turn up blazer over a black low neckline top, black pants and gold jewellery.
The shoes were a touch and go kind of situation for a moment. I had to decide between a gold pair and an animal print one. The animal print pair won because it would be the only element on me that said “party” without me having to step out half naked.
It should be that simple. Always find that one fashion piece that’ll give your outfit the oomph it deserves. It could be a pair of shoes, jewellery, sun glasses or a bag. It could even be just a little extra make up or a brighter lipstick. Looking good doesn’t have to be expensive, mix up what you already have and turn up!
I had visited South Africa to attend the Johannesburg Shopping Festival which started on September 24 and ends today. I’m glad I went. The Johannesburg Shopping Festival is Africa’s signature shopping event where shoppers can look forward to fantastic specials at four of the best shopping centres in Johannesburg, great travel deals and the chance to win a share of over R1 million in prizes.
Participating in this year’s festival was Rosebank Mall, Sandton City, Eastgate Mall and Oriental Plaza.
Feedback from “A little colour never hurt anybody!”
I just read your article; you’ve found yourself a new fan. — Zinhle.
Hey Yoli, your article was amazing. I really loved it. I’m learning so much from you. I’m one of those people who thought that your attire should match with make-up and nail polish. Thank you so much, keep it up! — 0776085***.
You’re really doing well with your column, it’s very realistic, keep it up — 0783872**.
I feel so liberated, not having to match my makeup, nail polish and clothes. Thanks a lot for sharing Yolie. — Hannah.
Hie Yoliswa, just read your article on fashion. Well done, you know your thing, keep it up. — 0715557***.
Hey, I’ve been following your articles, I’m a fan! — 0783698***.
Until next week, flaunt your pattern and style and don’t forget to drop me an SMS/WhatsApp on +263774 492700, send an email to [email protected] or follow me on Twitter handle @YoliswaStarr.
Online Reporter