The Cultured Traveller 17

child sex abuse clinics and petitioning the government to
foster changes in legislation.
How do you use fashion to raise awareness of kids from
vulnerable communities?
Instead of using the visibility I have to gain the best seats
at restaurants or preferential treatment I use it to bring
visibility to these issues and use my shows as a platform to
raise awareness of kids from vulnerable communities. I add
delicate metaphors on my garments that are not obvious
but contain meanings that unfold once I articulate the
social concerns with press and clients. I also use fashion to
raise funds for these causes. Part of the proceeds from my
sales goes to various charitable causes.
Choosing fashion as a career is fraught with challenges.
What advice would you give to aspiring young designers?
Think carefully before choosing this path since it is not for
the faint hearted! Fashion is a largely unregulated
profession and to be immersed in it requires tenacity and
sheer determination, not to mention talent. Be brutal with
yourself – just because you like fashion doesn’t mean
you’re a designer, and often vice versa. Creating a brand
takes money and you really have to fight to instil
confidence in your buyers and clients.
Travel is becoming increasingly easier and so we are
hearing the term “Destination Couture” used more
frequently. Your thoughts?
I am au fait with this as it’s a huge part of our business.
Clients fly in, get measured and have their toiles made, and
once we have perfected the fit and proportions they fly out.
We are then on call to make special occasion wear. It suits
many clients to have this ‘secret’ place where they can
indulge in their couture fantasies.
Please name-check one talented young African designer to
look out for.
Mozambican Taibo Bacar is a talented designer with a
great aesthetic.
What makes Cape Town such a special place for you to live
and work?
It’s maverick, has an irreverent sense of style and a
particular ethos that is hard to find elsewhere. Africa has
unique warmth found in its people but not easily found
elsewhere - Cape Town possesses both that warmth and
authenticity.
150 The Cultured Traveller Jun-Jul 2017