Renaissance Men SA: #FASHION_WEEK: #SAMW

Last day of SAMW was one highly anticipated with the final three shows dubbed to be the most packed and best shows of the week. We were already rooting for Orange Culture to bring the heat and we had no doubt Magents would bring down the house. Our best surprises came from Kola Kuddus (although not one of the highlights listed here) and Merwe Mode. A special shout out to the designers who contributed to the NSRI Fashion to Live For Initiative. Well done on that good work for a great cause. But now, into our highlights.

Merwe Mode

Merwe Mode presented a somewhat organic collection, with a healthy balance of fluid, flowing fabrics and silhouettes to rigid yet active geometric cuts. The colour palette was muted with the inclusion of a washed out emerald or bottle green that gave some of the looks a more vintage than modern impression. The collection included work pieces, as well as casual weekender items. There were one or two great statement pieces that could easily get the attention rolling when worn correctly to the perfect event.

Photographs by Lesley Mphanga of LeHydro Photography

Orange Culture

Adebayo Okelawal’s creation for Orange Culture’s SS16 collection was nothing short of spectacular. We have been waiting years to witness a runway show from the brand and this was it. It exceeded every level of expectation. Enough of that, about the collection: 70s modern man. Or at least a modern man during the 70s but now is living in the 21^st Century. It reeks of what Tom Ford could do if he let go of himself. It’s alive, free and having plenty of fun by itself. Slim bell-bottom pants paired with long-sleeved V-neck tees with pleated frills peaking through the cuff and hem. Wide Kimono inspired tees and wide-leg Kimono pants and shorts all got a vintage 70s retro make-over. The palette at times appeared muted and soft yet pops of vibrant colour peaked on occasion and we even got a dose of a zigzag print. The collection boasted a variety of detail surprises, extra length tees with knotted fronts of bodice, pleated frills under hems and cuffs and the occasional muffler. The collection was more than easy cool, it was a sexy take on easy living and the kind of ‘slapped on’ styling with an incredibly African aesthetic without overdosing on African prints or using any at all.

Photographs by Lesley Mphanga of LeHydro Photography

Magents

Magents! Magents! Magents! What can one say that has not already been said about this kick ass local brand? Such energy and inspiration, opening with a prolific video sending out vibes of encouragement for one and all to choose and to choose to be independent, individual and to be great as an African in this world. The clothes were no less inspiring. The clothes acted as billboards and protest boards, featuring messages that included Afrikan lives matter and I know who I am. The clothes were well crafted, great finishing and included great active wear and leisurewear for after work and the weekend. Denim was prominent and its always amazing to see a brand that can produce an entire collection under its name, including its awesome footwear. Magents showed a great collection of sneakers in an array of colours and print finishes. And what’s a Magents show without a little drama from Tey and Didier at the finale! “We love you Magents!”