African fashion has recently been receiving the spotlight on the international runways, with some South African designers having showcased their creations at Pitti Uomo in Italy.Some of the country's top designers have also featured at New York Fashion Week, having also built a reputation through a unique and distinguishable style of designing.This month we chose three designers with a consistent African aesthetic who have received wide recognition in the international scene and have been very successful in those global spaces.
Signature ropes and bold colours are a consistent feature in her jewellery, Katherine-Mary has successfully established a distinct aesthetic on her designs. Katherine has been featured on The Superbalist 100 and received wide recognition internationally, with Solange Knowles having worn some of her pieces. Pichulik jewellery has also been featured Vogue magazine's Spanish and British editions. The Pichulik brand has recently been expanded to producing clothing and bags in collaboration with other designers. Pichulik jewellery is handmade in Cape Town and each of the materials are sourced from different countries across Africa.
MaXhosa by Laduma is widely recognised through the statement knitwear that features patterns inspired by the Xhosa traditional wear. Laduma has also featured on The Superbalist 100 and has achieved huge success in the international fashion scene, including winning the Vogue Italia ‘Scouting for Africa’ last year, to showcase his designs at the Palazzo Morando Show in Italy. His knitwear range is available at Agnes and Lola in London and will soon be launched at United Arrows, a menswear boutique in Tokyo.His work was recently acknowledged by Beyonce on her official website, when she saw pieces from MaXhosa at the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum in New York City.
CHULAAP is a clothing label that is highly recognised through its contrasting prints and bold patterns. Chu Suwannapha celebrates Africa through his designs and finds inspiration from street styles. The CHULAAP brand is characterised by quirky, cool and contemporary elements. Suwannapha became the first African designer to collaborate with shoe label Superga and recently showcased his menswear collection at SA Menswear Week.Chu was recently featured in a Vogue Italia article whereby he was acknowledged for having a unique style that is representative of Africa.
#Maxhosa #Chuulap #LadumaNgxokolo #ChuSuwannapha #KatherineMaryPichulik