Category Archives: Fashion

Thriving Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: The SOOQ and Cricut’s Impact in South Africa

Posted on by

Looking at the economic wrap up in June on Stats SA the economy weakened in the first quarter, jobs declined and although the second quarter has been seen as more positive, there is still a concern for our economy in general. Small Businesses and entrepreneurs are said to be the perfect solution to pull our country’s economic state out of the “red zone” by offering more employment opportunities and boosting the economy. However, small businesses need to be provided with the resources and support necessary to survive past early stages of business – which are the most crucial according to the GEM SA Report conducted recently.

The SOOQ, a local marketplace for small businesses, and Cricut, a leading crafting technology company, have announced their partnership aimed at boosting entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses and makers in South Africa. This collaboration comes at a crucial time as the country emerges from the economic challenges of the volatile election period and the post-COVID delayed impact on small businesses, and strives to foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem both on and offline.

Continue reading →

Gert Johan-Coetzee Reigns Supreme at Miss South Africa

Posted on by
Credits: Gert Johan Coetzee

Renowned South African designer, Gert Johan Coetzee, made a dazzling impact on the Miss South Africa pageant night, showcasing his exceptional talent with an unforgettable opening sequence where 11 stunning gowns created by Coetzee transformed the stage into a breathtaking runway, leaving audiences and viewers captivated by his artistry.

Fashion coalesced with technology at this year’s Miss South Africa pageant like never before, every fabric was meticulously created and printed in Gert-Johan Coetzee studio, blending traditional techniques with cutting-edge innovation.

The 3D-printed elements on all the gowns are a testament to his commitment to pushing the envelope and redefining what’s possible in fashion, each piece was thoughtfully designed to highlight the unique personality of each contestant, ensuring that their individuality shines through. By fusing tradition with technology, Gert and his team are not only creating fashion; they are telling a story of innovation, pride, and empowerment. These gowns are more than just garments; they are a reflection of the strength and beauty of South Africa and its people and each dress is a masterpiece, reflecting the designer’s signature style and impeccable craftsmanship.

Continue reading →

Melrose Arch Set to Become South African Fashion Week’s New Home in September 2024

Posted on by

South African Fashion Week (SA Fashion Week) will be hosted in Johannesburg’s Melrose Arch Precinct in September this year.

The country’s premier designer fashion platform will be moving into its new home for the Autumn/Winter ‘25 Collections from 26th to 28th September 2024, says director, Lucilla Booyzen.

This year’s event will adopt a dynamic new format that will combine runway shows staged in an intriguing “never-used-before” space in Melrose Arch, with a line-up of lifestyle and brand activations throughout the precinct.

“SA Fashion Week’s vision over the past 27 years has been to explore sustainable business models that can leverage fashion’s economic and social influence for the benefit of all the stakeholders involved,” says Booyzen. “We are delighted to be partnering with one of the city’s most exciting lifestyle precincts, in one of its most historical areas, to develop yet another such mutually beneficial venture.”

Continue reading →

Empowering South African Talent: The Journey of Ishaarah Abrahams on Shein

Posted on by

SHEIN, the global fashion and lifestyle e-retailer, is making significant strides in promoting opportunities for young designers and supporting creative innovation in South Africa through its transformative SHEIN X Designer Incubator Program. Since its inception in January 2021, this pioneering initiative has provided over 4,600 designers and artists from 20 countries, including South Africa, with an unparalleled platform to showcase their talents on a global stage. By leveraging SHEIN’s expertise and state-of-the-art on-demand supply chain, the program supports participants at every step, from design conception to global distribution. This initiative not only provides access to advanced resources and technologies, reducing the barriers for young designers to turn their dreams to reality.

Empowering South African Talent: The Journey of Ishaarah Abrahams

Among the remarkable talents nurtured by the SHEIN X Designer Incubator Program is Ishaarah Abrahams a dynamic South African designer and illustrator from Cape Town’s Bo-Kaap. Arnold’s work, characterised by bold colours and contour lines that capture emotion and diversity, has garnered international acclamation. Her collection, featuring eclectic colour-block prints and chic silhouettes, is a testament to her unique vision and cultural heritage.

Continue reading →

Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Design Bursary 2024: Empowering the Future of South African Fashion

Posted on by

Celebrated fashion luminary Gert-Johan Coetzee proudly announces the continuation of his esteemed Fashion Design Bursary into 2024, marking another milestone in his ongoing commitment to nurturing South Africa’s emerging design talent. Established in 2009 and hosted annually at the North-West School of Design, this transformative bursary has become synonymous with fashion education and career empowerment. 

The Gert-Johan Coetzee Fashion Design Bursary offers a unique opportunity for one deserving individual to embark on a comprehensive three-year fashion journey at Gert-Johan Coetzee’s alma mater. The recipient will delve into a curriculum designed to cultivate technical prowess, conceptual creativity and industry acumen under the guidance of seasoned professionals. 

Continue reading →