Young designer realms art and fashion

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If you ask local designer Sipho Lushaba who he makes his clothes for, he will tell you … ‘for those who desire to be different.’

Sipho Lushaba’s pursuit for originality, as well as his interest in storytelling, is evident in his latest SVL (Sipho Vuyo Lushaba) collection. Titled The Genesis, the concept for his collection was moulded originally on a poem. The poem, which can be heard in the online short film showcasing Sipho’s designs, echoes his impulse to step towards what is new.

In collaboration with artist Luvela Mzukisi (better known as La Start), Sipho’s fabrics are hand-painted and reflect his instinct to fuse the realms of art and fashion. The balance of shape, blocks of colour and juxtaposition of the pattern and layering of textiles in each garment is an indication of  Sipho’s carefully chosen and thoughtfully prepared collection.

Sipho Lushaba. Image credit: Niamh/ARTLAB

The genesis of Sipho’s own journey to becoming a fashion designer began in his childhood with ‘fabric painted cloth, pencils and sketches’. At 27, his work is on an exciting path. He was a semi-finalist in the Vodacom Durban July’s Young Designer Award (2019), and was selected for the Durban Fashion Fair mentorship programme class of 2020, where he won the first merit award.

Together with the launch of his latest showcase, he is participating alongside six other emerging fashion designers in Artlab Durban, a mentorship programme aimed at cultivating the growth of Durban’s young creatives.

Behind his drive for success, Sipho credits his family for their ongoing support. ‘Knowing that they are behind me, cheering me on keeps me pushing daily.’

For Sipho, collaboration is key to bringing ideas to life and he hopes to help other creatives build their own platforms for success.

Details: Sipho on IG: svl_designs 

Image credit: @giftdick. Models – @twinky_dimba @syamthanda_

Sipho’s Winter fashion tips 

Invest in a knitted jersey
It will give you warmth and remind you of your grandmother’s hugs.

Experiment with layering
Wrap yourself up in warm clothing and experiment with different styles to find your best look.

Go for earthy colours 
Blend in with nature, be trendy and know which colours are in now.

Love what you wear and have a vibe

Image credit: @giftdick Model: @ntandovich

The trends

Oversized jackets and knitted jerseys
Oversized jackets are an item to go for, while knitted jerseys will give you that vintage feel.  Mix and match these for different wardrobe options. In terms of jackets you can go for blazers, bombers, shackers and puff jackets.

Super wide pants
If you’re looking for comfort, and trying to move away from tight and fitted clothing, this trend will give you a more relaxed feel.

Layering
When layering your clothes, you can start with a basic t-shirt and either a skirt or pants, layer over that an unbuttoned shirt, adding on a jacket and scarf for extra warmth. Another method would be to wear a buttoned shirt under a hoodie or layer over a knitted jersey, finishing it off with a blazer.

Boots 
One should go for either mid, high calf or combat ankle boots. Think brands like Dr Martens and  Cotton On.

Jumpsuits
Onesies, suspender jumpsuits and overalls are a must have for winter!

 

CREDITS

Featured image: @giftdick  Models:  @sizwe_dc and @syamthanda_mthwana

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