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Ntombiyolwandle Ndlovu
THREE local fashion designers had the privilege to showcase their couture at the just ended Durban Fashion Fair held in South Africa this month.
The three are Zandile Dube who runs Zah designs, Gilmore Moyo who runs Sanah designs and Sidumiso Tshuma who runs Shadow.
In an interview upon their return the designers said the experience was electrifying, as they also got a chance to pick on other fashion designers’ ideas from across the border.
This year the fashion extravaganza was held under the theme “Shangase, bringing together evolving and established designers”.
Dube of Zah designs said she was humbled to meet up with international fashion gurus such as renowned South African fashion designer Thula Sindi.
“I had an amazing time at the Durban Fashion Fair and this being the first time for me to showcase internationally, it was a great practice sharing a platform with reputable designers such as Sindi,” she said.
Dube also said the experience at the event was unique and would definitely introduce ideas she picked while at the event.
“This was a different type of fashion show. Unlike the usual fashion shows back home this was definitely international. I also learnt that making an outfit was not just about the quality of the fabric but also that designs should be rich in colour and texture as well,” Dube said.
A designer, who spoke on behalf of Sanah designs, said they also managed to clinch various deals with South African designers, as well as magazines.
“We had a great experience in Durban; we got a chance to meet up with talented fashion designers. We managed to talk designers like Arthur Mafokate and learnt that the sky is not the limit. We even got contacts for big magazines, contacts from celebrities, clients and even orders,” said the designer who preferred anonymity.
She added that they would soon implement the ideas they learnt while in South Africa.
“We are coming home with experience in the fashion field and a diverse idea on what is required to succeed in any chosen field. We cannot wait to come and put into practice what we have learnt and also teach our young upcoming designers what we learnt in Durban,” she said.
The designers are advised emerging designers to be confident in what they do and always be up to date with latest fashion trends.
“To our upcoming designers, they just need to believe in ourselves, be humble and let their thoughts come out. They should not let resources limit them but use what they have and always give it their best shot,” she said.
Online Reporter