PRESS MUTE ON PRINTS & COLOUR
Luxury fashion brands such as Max Mara and Bottega Veneta have embraced the allure of natural colours over vibrant prints and hues. Partly inspired by the clean lines worn by Kendall and Shiv in the final season of Succession, the look marries simplicity and sophistication, quality and restraint. Local designer Keneilwe Mothoa’s Neimil and Copenhagen-based brand Mark Kenly Domino Tan and Loro Piana also celebrate the power of understatement, while Loro Piana also favoured muted tones.
EMBRACING EMERGING BRANDS
Gone are the days when young designers were relegated to the backwoods – emerging brands are attracting editors, influencers, buyers, and fashion lovers. Labels to watch include African luxury designer, ShelleyMokoena of Connade, and Nigerian-based Abiola Olusola. Burgeoning brands like London-based Febenand Nigerian-British designer Tokyo James are also notable new names to watch.
ADD CULTURAL CUES WITH WEARABLE HISTORY
A marriage of history and style takes centre stage in men’s fashion this season. LouisVuitton’s latest menswear collection by creative director Pharrell Williams, featured parfleche blankets and Dakota flower scarves created with artists and artisans of the Dakota and Lakota nations. Also on the runway, French designer Olivier Rousteing celebrated African high fashion with sweaters serving as a canvas for talented African artists and artisans.
THE BIG BAG’S COMEBACK
The height of sophistication this season is complemented by oversized handbags and totes designed to meet our tech needs. These bags are not just accessories, they seamlessly merge form and function, reflecting practicality without sacrificing essential style.
