Teboho Setena
Emerging designers with incredible vision from within the Mangaung Metro, made a statement with their creative garments at Bloem Show’s fashion show on 27 April.
They unleashed unique African craftsmanship on the runway.
The collection ranged from streetwear and modern African garments, ideal for the upcoming winter and summer seasons – in addition to setting a new swimwear trend for the warmer weather.
These were designs by Sherley Magqaza (ShirQreates Pty Ltd), Kgalaletso Letsoalo (K-Compass), Sivu Guda (Dezzanna Tranx) and Audrey Tladi (ASL).
These designers were delighted to showcase the flair for fashion they hold at their fingertips at the Bloem Show, especially since this was a first at the consumer event which marked 142 years.
The fashion show was presented in partnership with the Ms World Plus pageant.
“Bloem Show is a great platform to showcase our fashion brands, especially because most people did not know about us as local designers until they saw our work. It is not an easy industry – you need to be consistent, let your work speak for you, and be willing to learn more from those who have been in the game for a long time,” said Magqaza.
Her creations included the Basotho’s royal fabric, shweshwe, and a kimono, a garment worn with a bikini swimsuit bottom and top.
Magqaza studied Fashion Design at the Thaba Nchu campus of the Motheo Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College.
“We were privileged to showcase our winter collection at the prestigious Bloem Show,” said Letsoalo.
“Our latest collection, titled Winter Fall, was designed to welcome the cold season with style, combining a rich palette of navy, grey, green, and white.
“This experience was made even more rewarding by working with exceptional models and having the opportunity to present our vision to a wider audience.”
Letsoalo’s standout creations included a skater dress and knife-pleated velvet ladies’ suit.
“It perfectly reflects our dedication to craftsmanship, bold design, and detail,” said Letsoalo a graduate of the Motheo TVET College.
For Tladi, her work and creativity came in the exploration of rich African heritage, and the stylish creation of modern African dresses.
“I think it is a great opportunity and platform, especially for us upcoming designers,” she said.
Tladi studied at the Motheo TVET College and the Central University of Technology (CUT), Free State.
The Bloem Show fashion show tied in with World Design Day, observed annually on 27 April. It highlights the role of pioneers in design, and innovation in job creation and economic development.
