Clash of the brands at Soweto Fashion Week

Johannesburg - Created in 2011 as a platform for both established and upcoming South African fashion designers, and now in its sixth year, Soweto Fashion Week was held this past week and ends on Sunday at the Soweto Theatre complex.

The fashion on display on Thursday night was of a high standard, and the brands that were showcased included Nokwakha, Dejavu, Dope, Mcgale, Precious Lulu and Fresh Wear, whose showcases were standouts.

Organisers challenged the designers to incorporate nuances of the technological age in their clothing, showing the way forward.

This at times was not abundantly clear but the clothing on the whole did seem to find favour with the crowd.

Unapologetic streetwear seemed to be the common thread with the 23 selected designers showing spring and summer collections.

Darling Hair, a sponsor of this event, did the most in ensuring the models’ hair complemented the looks.

Young Designers Emporium (YDE) provided support for the event by means of a Rising Talent Initiative.

YDE has offered Soweto Fashion Week’s featured young designers an ongoing opportunity to have their garments displayed and sold in 21 of their stores countrywide.

In between shows, the audience was treated to performances by some young up-and-coming music talents.

Milling about in the crowd were a few celebs from e.tv’s roster, another event sponsor.

These included Nkosi Cengani, Judy Manyali and Innocentia Makalo from Rhythm City.

Ayanda Daweti from Scandal who also modelled along with the lovely Nkanyiso Makhanya and Walterique Sandows.