SLAÉ Magazine

SLAÉ MAGAZINE

FEATURES

Fashion Fluidity: An Illustrated Story LIFESTYLE

Fashion Weeks & Race Days CULTURE

Influencers To Watch VOL.1

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SLAÉ https://fashsoc.wixsite.com/fashmag

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Our Stuff 04 From The Editor 05 Where We Began 06 Meet The Team

Features 08 Shweshwekini 11 Fashion Fluidity: An Illustrated Story 13 My Love-hate relationship with

minimalism in fashion

14 Has the Hijab Just Become a Fashion

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Statement ?

Lifestyle 16 Top 5 Events

Culture 22 Top 10 Spotted on Campus 24 Top 10 Influencers 36 Top 5 Editorials

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FROM THE EDITOR

SLAÉ came about to gather what matters to millennials into a refreshingly informative and entertaining fashion publication. SLAÉ celebrates those who celebrate themselves in how they share their thoughts and vision with the world.

This generation is in many ways the most exciting because we are actively disrupting all the norms to create a world which ideologically, systematically and creatively represents us. This is extremely powerful because it establishes an environment in which human beings can tap into the best versions of themselves and produce their finest work.

This inaugural issue has been a long time coming and focuses on the young history of the University of Cape Town Fashion Society. We have achieved and continue to grow due to the passion and involvement of our team and followers.

I sincerely hope you meaningfully engage with our content and feel inspired to make things happen!

Kuda Masamvu Editor in Chief

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WHERE WE BEGAN

The emphasis of this inaugural issue of SLAÉ is to journey through the roots of The University of

Photography by Half & Halve.

Cape Town Fashion Society. Founders Jemma Richmond and Refiloe Mokgele give us the story.

Why do you think it was necessary to start a Fashion Society?

There were various reasons for starting the society. The most important one being that there wasn't one.

In the fashion industry meeting people and connecting with fellow fashion enthusiasts is half the work, but meeting these fashion people is not easy. We wanted to assist by creating a space that bridged the gap between students and the industry and also created opportunities to meet other interested students.

It was also necessary to create a space for learning and appreciation of the diversity and beauty of style and fashion

important to let it go and see if it could stand on it's own which so far it has been able to.

What are some of the important things you think people can learn from being a part of the society?

The first is obviously practical skills. Between workshops, talks and forums there is a lot of opportunity to learn about how the industry works from professionals. This includes understanding how a career in fashion works, how to get there, and what type of careers you can have.

The second is that you can use the platform to grow yourself

particularly in a South African context.

and potentially your brand by meeting professionals or other students interested in the same thing.

You can also meet the incredible fashionistas at UCT. Honestly there is nothing more inspiring (from a style perspective) than other people's style.

Through your leadership what were some of the highs and lows of Fashsoc?

Leading the society, particularly at the beginning, had its fair share of difficulties. Being a new society there was no knowledge, tradition or reputation to go with the society. We had to create this all from the beginning. We had no money so had to invest out of our own pockets (not easy on a student budget that's already stretched thin by an addiction to clothes). We hit a lot of bumps because everything we were doing, was being done for the first time.

But it was also extremely fulfilling-particularly when we could see success out of our endeavours. The Fashion Show at the end of 2017 represented the growth of the society.

It was also difficult to say goodbye to the society but it was

Where do you see the society in the long term?

It would be amazing if the society started to carry some weight in the industry. We hope our reputation grows so that we can act as a representative for student fashion in the greater fashion community.

Fashion is also so much more than the just a materialistic interest and it would be great if the society had a stronger voice in the university as a whole. We're really proud of how far we've come, and we anticipate a long and stylish future for the UCT Fashion Society.

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MEET THE TEAM Kuda Masamvu Business Science Finance with Accounting student and all round Boss in the making is our Chairperson and Editor of the Magazine!

"I am most at peace when producing experiences and celebrating creatives. Finding your massive transformative purpose means you can change the world by being yourself and that's honestly the best feeling."

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Gontse Matshitse Financial Accounting student Gontse is a "full time hustler aiming to look like a Pokemon trainer, pre-school teacher, young delivery boy or a retired art teacher while still having my Instagram more organized than my actual life."

editor in chief KUDA MASAMVU graphics editor K ARNIEL A KLUFIO graphics editor DERICK SAMO GUDO cover ADRIAN L.SANDIFORD

FASHSOC COMMITTEE chairperson KUDA MASAMVU secretary GONTSE MATSHITSE treasury ANDA NTSHIBA

Anda Ntshiba

events RICHMOND ANYETEI

Currently studying Film and Media is our Treasurer Anda!

media MASECHABA MOSENA

“I’m a bit aniti-social and I enjoy the little things in life.

I don’t consider myself as a fashionable person but I like fashion so here I am trying to make things happen not only for me but for everyone in the society.”

i.t & website FANELE EDISON photography K ARNIEL A KLUFIO photography DERICK SAMO GUDO editorial office LEVEL 5 STEVE BIKO BUILDING UNIVERSIT Y OF CAPE TOWN

Richmond Anyetei Our Head of Events and Fashion Show. He is currently studying Organizational psychology and Industrial Sociology. “The nice thing about expression is the fact that there are various forms of it. My choice of expression is expressed in the form of what I wear and how I wear it.”

www.fashsoc.wixsite.com/fashmag

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Karniela Klufio Every team has a sweetheart and MBChB student Karniela definitely has that warmth that brings everyone together. She loves to keep low key which is perfect for being a photographer. '' When you stop challenging yourself you cease to grow, so learn to embrace challenges and keep an open mind about everything and everyone around you''.

Derick Samo Gudo Business Science Finance with Accounting student Derick mans the behind the scenes alongside Karniela. He ventured into photography as a hobby but became super official when he realised how good he was. "What I love about photography is the fact that I can freeze time, I can capture a split second and have it stored forever!"

Masechaba Mosena The Queen of our Media and Marketing is pursuing a BSocSci degree in Politics and Sociology. She describes herself as a “style icon, media enthusiast and body positive influencer in the making”. She aims to empower and inspire all in the name of fashion!

Fanele Edison Our head of IT is currently studying towards a Bsc in Computer Science and Computer Engineering. She loves horror movies, sunsets and yoga.

“I am not a word, I am not a line, I am not a girl who could ever be defined.”

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H E A D L I N E F E AT U R E

Up and Coming SHWESHWEKINI We caught up with Mapitso Thaisi, a UCT Masters in Law student who is the force behind the brand currently making waves in the fashion industry for its uniquely Sotho take on swimwear.

In what ways did your upbringing spark an interest in fashion?

I come from Lesotho, where traditional dress-codes resemble the stage of someone's life. We have a specific dress code for different rites of passage from adolescence to weddings and funerals. So, seeing these unfolding dress-codes as a little girl was always fascinating for me.

I was particularly attracted to Shweshwe and versatile patterns and colours worn by my mother, aunts and grandmothers.

Who is Shweshwekini targeted to?

People who love to travel and those who are into outdoor fun and games. My clients are mostly within the 23-48 age range.

How has the furtherance of your formal education benefited your business?

It forms part of my story and the inspiration behind my brand. In my first year of Masters I felt a bit lost and I had so many other creative ideas

that I wanted to explore, so I turned to these creative pursuits to escape the pressures of varsity at the time. Being in varsity is beneficial because you have so many resources - like time, internet and support environments or people you can discuss your ideas with and it is here where you are likely to meet great business partners and form valuable networks.

What are some of the unavoidable issues facing the South African fashion industry that have impacted your journey?

Funding and start-up resources.

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Unless you have some form of investment from the start, it is difficult to make it through in this industry, but a little always goes along way. So start with what you have.

What have been some of your favourite pieces from your collections and why?

The active wear range that I recently launched, my Mahali swimsuit, the Refiloe Kini are some of the greats. I honestly love all my pieces and how they make my clients feel good about their bodies!

Shweshwekini has been so dear to my heart and I hope more people get the opportunity to be in one.

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Photography by Marks Written Makhado

''I wanted to explore, so I turned to these creative pursuits to escape the pressures of varsity at the time.''

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F E AT U R E

Fashion Fluidity: an illustrated story.

I am Tara-Leigh Jurgens, I am a first year, majoring in

Organisational Psychology, Gender Studies as well as Media and Writing. I am also a part-time, self-taught digital fashion illustrator and stylist. would define art as an ability to escape reality and each artwork that is encapsulated, portrays the view of the world one would like others to visualise. Retrospectively, art also has the ability to display the negative space within society. I believe that art should validate this negative space through revealing the eyes to a vision of how to unlock intangible phenomenons. There is beauty in the coalition of fashion and art, that reveals the scarcity in embodying distinctive aspects of one’s creativity.

I

Serving looks across the binary is more of an artform rather than a statement. My subject matter ranges from portraying the metrosexual urbane man, femme beings all the way to melanin goddesses. I hold no exclusion criteria as to what I draw, as It would narrow down inspiration that stems from the pictorial representation I’d like others to see. The visual understanding of each of my artworks requires an unconscious repression of what is often appreciated in fashion illustrations. Through artistic endeavours I aim on blurring the line between what can be considered a portrait and a fashion sketch.

Moreover, the male muse, gender-nonconforming beings as well as womxn of colour are often neglected in fashion illustrations. My intentions are to eradicate body image as well as superficial norms that are portrayed within fashion-related art. My Future projects include illustrations of transgender beings as well as capturing a sense of the multicultural South African style.

Whether the medium is digital or ink, there is always an element of flair and sophistication that can be encoded within the manner in which I have chosen to represent certain figures. The style of my art can be described as expressionistic, which is also an adaptation of my personal style of fashion.

My biggest inspiration for my rather ambiguous subject matter is a result of the fusion of the different types of fashion that I admire. In terms of fashion icons that have inspired the daily fads I’ve grown fond of, I'd have to say that I’ve gained empirical fashion knowledge across all genders and cultures.

Some of my recent artworks include what I view as staple fashion styles, such as Harajuku, Vintage, street style, preppy as well as African style. I believe Oriental and African prints express a sense of unity and diversity that is often neglected in most Eurocentric fashion trends. Regardless of the segregated aisles that ‘genders’ certain clothing, style has the ability to clothe individuals with armor that reinforces or expresses individuality. Therefore, it has the ability to portray personality and identity, which translates what is guarded on the inside.

Art fuels my creativity while fashion aids my existence.

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F E AT U R E

My Love-hate relationship with minimalism in fashion My name is Mokgadi Marishane, I'm a Psychology and Politics student and I run a blog called Seasonal Words.

deniable, the classic and streamlined quality of it made me contemplate a wardrobe dominated by so-called “classic” and fail-proof quality items, with nothing else much in-between?

What does fashion look like when it all appears to be a blend of clean lines, neutral tones and carefully tailored silhouettes? A Céline dream? An illusion of luxury? Or a bit lackluster?

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s I sit at my desk rationalising the shambles of my budget this month, I think of my

long-awaited purchase of a black blazer.

Beyond its professional or social uses, I think of its status as a “classic investment item” and after scrolling through and updating my Pinterest with ideas for how to wear it with other pieces I have, I begin to see a trend in the results I obtain; and eventually google - “Is minimalist fashion boring?”.

This thought entered my mind as I wrestled with the idea of whether the onsale yet pricey item was truly worth sacrificing the numerous others I could have bought or thrifted with the same amount; and while the quality of the blazer was un-

The fashion world thrives on making and breaking rules, and they are ever-changing in the face of body-positivity movements and challenging ideas about dressing according to gender, skin tone or your latest hair colour. With the presence of fast fashion and the ability to reach customers even faster with new trends online it seems that minimalist fashion offers us a respite from all of the mass-consumerism, questionable ethics and general frenzy of dressing well today.

With a few high-quality classic pieces, such a style promises that every day’s look will appear tastefully put together - without the wardrobe clutter; but I can’t help but feel that it steals some of the expressionistic joy of dressing oneself.

My favourite part of fashion weeks, besides the new collections, are the street-fashion shots revealing how those in the viewing seats bring “high-fashion” to the streets and how that revives the spirit of fashion as a form of expression. Oftentimes,

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the outfits I admire the most on UCT’s campuses are those which hint at an individualism that seems encased in both the clothing worn as well as the wearer.

Admittedly, none of this is in direct contradiction with a minimalist approach but the minimalist aesthetic a la monochromatic neutrals and clean lines appears to be another set of rules one ought to conform to in order to be “cool”; and there is even more pressure to do so if conforming suddenly boosts your Instagram likes.

In a world where we are all trying to become conscious-consumers, I do believe that incorporating some of the principles of a minimalist approach can be useful for us all, and especially good for the earth.

Adding elements to your wardrobe with intention, whether classic or quirky, is certainly one of them. Minimalism as an aesthetic is visually pleasing, and unsurprisingly easy to catch on to, but I am sceptical of its flexibility (or lack thereof) when it is touted as an elitist combination of oft-expensive neutral items which look luxurious but sometimes bland. Ultimately, curated need not mean “boring” and principles such as reducing clutter, prioritising quality over quantity, enjoying and making the most of what you have (yes to repeat outfits) and thinking before you buy mean you can be both a friend to the earth, and a friend to fashion.

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F E AT U R E

Has the Hijab become JUST a fashion statement?

My name is Zahirah Benjamin I am currently in my third year studying a Bachelor of Social Science. I love writing and work with Varsity News.

any Muslim women, including myself, have our own reasons why we wear a Hijab or why we do not wear a Hijab. For many people the cloth that we wear with pride on our heads is seen as a representation of oppression and segregation.

Wearing the Hijab is NOT those things. Wearing a Hijab is a symbol of freedom. A symbol of modesty.

It’s a part of an individual’s identity and who they are as a person. Yes it’s a religious commandment but it is also a powerful symbol of Muslim women’s rejection of western notions of feminism.

M

In 2016, the Hijab in the American fashion and beauty industry had become a hot commodity given that Cover Girl Ambassador, Nura Afia, was the first Muslim woman to wear a headscarf in makeup commercials.

Since then Anniesa Hasibuan made a bold and emotional statement at the New York Fashion Week this year when she became the first designer to present her collection with Hijabs.

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Since this historical moment there have been seven occasions where models have rocked the hijab with pride on the runways. It does not stop there, brands like GAP, Dolce and Gabbana have been making efforts to become more diverse and inclusive.

It’s great to see that my fellow Muslim and non-Muslim sisters are contesting and challenging the notions of what society defines as the normative standard of beauty and wearing the hijab with pride. Above all the Hijab will always be integrally rooted to Islamic faith and as such its value and meaning should be protected.

Photography by Rendiansyah Nugroho.

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F E AT U R E

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LIFESTYLE

Top 5 Events attended by FashSoc Over the years Fashsoc has been invited to some of the most celebrated events in South Africa.

In this compilation we give you the gist on some of our favourites and what you can expect!

1. Queens Plate 2. The Met 3. AFI Cape Town Fashion Week 4. SA Menswear Week 5. Design Indaba

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Photography by Awelani Mudau & Anele Hlongwane.

Definitely one of the most elegant affairs on the Cape Town social calendar and the best way to kick off the year!

L' O R M A R I N S Q U E E N ' S P L A T E

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TOP 5 EVENTS

THE SUN MET

Photography by Anele Hlongwane

Dubbed as “Africa’s Richest Race Day”, The Met had no shortage of the glitz and glam!

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A F R I C A N FA S H I O N I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Photography by Anele Hlongwane

C A P E T OW N FA S H I O N W E E K

Definitely one of the best times to network and see work from fashion creatives from all over the continent.

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TOP 5 EVENTS

Totally worth it if you in the mood to mingle with beautiful men, get complimentary drinks and some inspiration for a new wardrobe.

Definitely one of the most elegant affairs on the Cape Town social calendar

S O U TSHO U A TF H RIC NI CMAENN SMW AA FR EE NA SR WW E AERE K WEEK Photography by Anele Hlongwane & Winston Sussens.

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DESIGN INDABA

Photography by Anele Hlongwane

For those who love indie music vibes and witnessing some great street style.

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C U LT U R E

Top 10 Spotted

Rolien Zonneveld. Dressed in black from head to toe and rocking it

On Campus Going to campus everyday takes a lot of motivation considering how stressful University is. This group of people are a pleasant reminder that no matter what is happening academically looking good makes the experience better.

Photographs from instagram: @uctfashion.

Kelebone Matlala contemplating why Spring hasn't decided to show up yet, while dripping in a cool oversized printed jersey.

Roberto Meyer, we all need these pants in our lives.

A good coat is essential no matter the occasion. Teach us Maxine!

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Kailen Naidoo, dressed to entirely annoy his haters.

This is Gina. Distinctly in monochrome and a hint of something brought out of the 90's.

Stripes are eternally cool, fresh and in. We see you Buck Whaley.

Somang Kim is looking hella fresh in Nikolas Botha, breaking every stereotype about Bsc that he could and totally delt with the weather in the best way possible.

Naledi, totally Rocking Lower Campus with her vintage rock girl look.

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his cold weather gear.

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Top 10 Influencers

The University of Cape Town is more than a centre for academic excellence. It has also produced some of the most sought-after influencers of our time. We highlight a new generation of voices who are making noticeable strides in defining the future.

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Photography by Theriso mobu.

Photography by Lucia Petschling, Mashudu Tshiredo, Half & Halve and Ezra Mokgope.

Theriso mobu

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TOP 10 INFLUENCERS

Tsakisani Mondlani "People appreciate realness and I honestly believe I’ve come this far because of authenticity."

What 3 things does anyone looking to be an influencer in South Africa need to know?

The first one, and the one that people within this industry fail to educate upcoming talent on, must be – One’s ability to look past negativity.

Shade comes flying your way EVERYDAY, and the success of your career relies on you being able to walk away and dismiss the faceless trolls that feel it’s okay to try break your spirit.

This isn’t to say that you’re never celebrated and adored by your fans, but you will have to learn to roll with the punches every now and then.

You can’t please everyone! The sooner you learn this the better. It’s important to realise that being true to yourself won’t make everyone happy and that you may occasionally be misjudged by people making assumptions about you base on what is put out online.

Be You – it’ll make it so much easier to look past all the clutter around you and about you.

You probably won’t be getting paid for the better part of your early career.

As sad as this may be. It’s the truth.

You’re going to have an influx of brands offering you “freebies” to promote on your platforms – At first this excites you, Because I mean Who doesn’t enjoy the occasional free designer dress or “one-of-a-kind” neckpiece.

Patience grasshopper, you have no leg to stand on. Take the “freebies” and do an amazing job promoting them, as this is how to begin to build a relationship with brands.

In no time, you should have them asking to pay you.

What has been your biggest challenge in growing your brand?

My biggest challenge has to be knowing which brands will be beneficial to the growth of my personal brand. It’s definitely taken me a while to figure this out, and it’s Important for my fellow peers to decide what works for them at an early stage in their growth.

Finding my niche hasn’t come easy. If becoming an influencer is in the cards for you – Decide what you want to do and do it well.

Being a “Jack of all trades, and Master of none” won’t get you far. Discernment is key.

What do you feel your brand has done differently that the public has responded so enthusiastically to?

Being Myself.

I don’t see how any influencer can make it without Truly being an original.

People appreciate realness and I honestly believe I’ve come this far because of authenticity.

Don’t ever compromise your originality.

Where do you see yourselves in 5 years and why?

I’m an actress at heart, and TV is the dream we are chasing – in front and/ or behind the camera is where I’m headed.

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Photography by Marnus Meyer and Simon Deiner .

TOP 10 INFLUENCERS

Jack Thunde "I have a heart for social justice..."

'My notable accomplishments have been being in GQ South Africa and being in the 100th print edition of GQ France. I see these two as highlights for me because GQ was always the goal. I remember after getting signed back in July 2014 my housemates at the time would called

me “Mr GQ” and my boss would always tell me how she wanted me to be in GQ because I was their kind of person and for it to happen within my first year with GQ South Africa was unimaginable because people go their whole careers never getting the opportunity. Then to be a part of GQ France’s monumental edition less than a year later was just something else because they didn’t hold any castings, they simply chose 4 models, 2 guys and 2 girls from all the models in Cape Town, and to

be 1 of the 2 guys chosen was God’s favour on me.

Aside from GQ I’d say walking at the 2016 Autumn/Winter South Africa Menswear Week was also a notable achievement for me. I remember being back home in Malawi on holiday when my boss dropped me a message telling me I’d be doing my first runway show and that I’d been booked to walk for 13 of Africa’s top and upcoming designers. It was a milestone for me because I’d just been practicing my walk but had never been in a show before then and I had been selected without even going to the auditions.

Its not all runways and photoshoots for me, I’m currently doing my Masters in Economics. I have a

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heart for social justice and I feel I can do that through my field. In the next 5 years I see myself being involved in research aimed at fixing the social injustices that currently plague our countries and being involved in projects to uplift and improve the lives of those at the lower end of the income spectrum.'

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Photograph by Ramiie G, Tayla McGregor and Tina Porkas.

TOP 10 INFLUENCERS

Rati Lekalakala 'For anyone that is looking to be in the influencer industry, it is important to find a gap in the market that is tailor made for you. Content wise, keep it clean, crisp and fresh.

Always remember to not be a copy paste version of another influencer you won’t make it that way. REMAIN AUTHENTIC. People can sense when you aren’t being true to who you are, you lose attraction as well as engagement that way.

In 5 years time I would like to have my own NPO for animals who have been abused and those who need a home. I see myself traveling and spreading awareness on a global scale; who knows... I can’t wait to see though!'

My brand is very different to a lot of other influencers in that I tackle environmental issues as well as animal cruelty issues. I always receive an overwhelming response of support and love with relations to these posts. Being sustainable and protecting the rights of animals is something that is very close to my heart and I am just happy that I’m able to spread awareness on such a big platform.

"I would like to have my own NPO for animals"

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TOP 10 INFLUENCERS

Half

Who are the Half & Halve duo and how did it come about?

Our team is made up of brothers Shakeel & Tash Toefy, a media duo specializing in fashion photography. Our brand was founded in February 2016 after months of experimentation. Fashion and the creative industry has always been an important aspect of our lives as we were surrounded by dressmakers, tailors and photographers while growing up. It seemed natural for us to turn our creative abilities into a recognized business.

....

What is the most interesting dynamic about being behind the camera?

Our love for the creative industry is fuelled by our desire to tell stories through imagery. Being behind the camera allows us to share our fashion narrative with our audience and bring our creative ideas to life. It allows us to shape what you see every day into a curated visual story representing the beauty of the African continent and all it’s people.

Which cool people have you gotten to work with, who has been your favourite and why?

We have had the privilege of working with quite a few influential people such as Aisha Baker, Enhle Mbali, Anesu Chogugudza and Nabilah Kariem to name a few.

However, the South African creative industry is filled with incredibly talented individuals and being able to work with such an array of multi-talented, diverse people makes it difficult to decide on one specific person. Our favourite projects are usually fashion editorials as we’re able to artistically capture a story.

What has been your biggest challenge in growing your brand?

Photography by Half & Halve.

One of the biggest challenges with any start up business is finding your voice and gaining recognition within your field. It was extremely tough starting out as the photographic and creative industry as a whole is very saturated. It can be exceptionally intimidating, especially as a start up, because your voice might be going unheard but we used this as a fuel to our fire and consistently produced work out of the pure love for fashion photography.

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& Halve What do you feel your brand has done differently that the public has responded so enthusiastically to?

Since inception, we have consistently worked at perfecting our craft and shooting as much as we possibly could. We shoot both commissioned and personal projects which helps to create a creative balance, something that is incredibly important for any creative.

Who has been your biggest influence and why?

We constantly take inspiration from our surroundings and our own personal journey as it is important to use life experiences to create work that people relate to.

We are influenced by people such as Menswear blogger Denny Balmaceda because of his experimental nature towards fashion, Trevor Stuurman because of his natural storytelling ability and Aisha Baker & Aqeelah Harron because of their business mindset and ability to turn their passion into a sustainable career.

Photography by Half & Halve .

Where do you see yourselves in 5 years and why?

We would like to expand Half & Halve into a multi-faceted fashion media house as well as being recognized as one of South Africa’s most influential fashion photographers. We are working towards expanding our presence internationally, allowing us to travel around the world to shoot fashion. With our current work ethic and dedication to our business we have no doubt that we will achieve every goal we set for ourselves.

" Our love for the creative industry is fuelled by our desire to tell stories through imagery."

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TOP 10 INFLUENCERS

Oyena Bisholo "I have creatively made my transness a selling point through ‘vastness’"

individuals. So I have experienced issues around accessing opportunities, partnering up with willing and accepting brands and just the receivability of my brand by the general population.

It feels as though I am a pioneer in this field as there are not that many trans people with thriving brands in mainstream media. So I have had to re-invent the wheel and make my own rules about how to

present and manage my brand as a trans person.

The biggest challenge in all of this has been to steer focus away from my gender identity in order for the focus to be on me and what I can bring to the table.

This is a long process and is one I continue to work on as my brand grows. As much as this has been a challenge, it has become a strength as I have been able to make myself more marketable without shying away from my true identity.

I have creatively made my transness a selling point through ‘vastness’ which I have recently defined on urban dictionary and embody in my offline and online personality.'

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Photography by Loure Group.

'There have been many challenges in growing my brand. But I will touch on one which I feel has been really important in the overall management of my brand.

Being a trans woman in South Africa is a challenge on its own, and the marketability of trans people is not yet on par with that of cis gender

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TOP 10 INFLUENCERS

Nicola Kruger "I take inspiration from everyday people"

it’s this variety that contributes to a developed voice. I put a lot of heart and soul into producing well thought out, multi-perspective written pieces and always try to go beyond simply producing fashionable content.

I take inspiration from everyday people; strong women who own their power as well as young creatives chasing their dreams. Confident individuals who own their bodies

and unique diversity; the increase in representation in the fashion industry has been extremely influential in my personal journey. Young South Africans making their mark on the industry will forever reignite my passion. Creature Nicola is about the inspiration of “everyday” people; therefore, there is a constant creative' Photography by Half & Halve .

'I have always tried to be as authentic as possible; Creature Nicola aims to be unique yet relevant. I think it’s important to know when restraint is needed; you don’t need to make use of every trend that comes and goes. Creature Nicola is streamlined into three focused aspects; fashion journalism, concept creation and everyday experiences; I think

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TOP 10 INFLUENCERS

Ezra Mokgope How did The Creative brand come about?

I needed an outlet, a chance to address history, space and time the best way I know how. It was an organic process, fueled by my surroundings and gifts. A culmination of all my endeavours : music , Photography, Theatre, Textiles …

The Creative became a platform to share these God-given gifts with the world and hopefully touch a life, or bring change to someone's everyday.

What moments and experiences have stood out for you while growing your career?

I think everybody I come into contact with on any creative level shares important wisdom, hence everybody is significant in their own right.

In 2014, I had the chance to do the Music and Sound for Trevor Stuurman's Fashion Film – which was a great experience and great moment to collaborate with Trevor.

In 2016, It was the Lebone II College Leadership Festival, North West – as a Content Producer and Art Director.

Working with over 250 students from different backgrounds, countries and futures was really cool for me.

Just recently, I had the opportunity to do the visuals for Zaki Ibrahim on her latest album The Secret Life of Planets. A beautiful human being, with a wealth of knowledge.

Do you think schooling is necessary when going into a creative field?

Yes, definitely – because like any gift creativity needs knowledge to advance, evolve: understanding fully that knowledge can be extracted through many different knowledge systems, the ability to compare and contrast ones own praxis, presents one with the opportunity to grow.

Photography by Ezra Mokgope.

Who has been your biggest influence and why?

Black People, the ability to transcend years of pain, hurt and invalidity, but still manage to re-create themselves, still dream and aspire to be better humbles me every single day.

What is on the cards for the future?

Living, Creating, Educating and in a better position to make this world a better place than how I found it.

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Foyinsola Ogunrombi What got you into blogging?

As I’ve gotten older, I continue to be asked this question and sometimes my answer is incredibly refined and other times its straight to the point – this time may be the latter. I blog because, fundamentally, I think people should listen to what I have to say. Even back when I started my first blog in 2009, I thought I had something to offer, some new insight, some value to add - something special about me that people should actually pay attention to. Whether or not that was actually true was beside the point, but I believed that and tried to create work that was valuable to someone, somewhere. Even if it was only me. I wanted to share myself with the world and so I did.

What inspired the transition into being a makeup artist?

When I went to Lagos in 2015 for my cousin’s wedding, we had a professional makeup artist come to the house and do our makeup and tie our geles (traditional Nigerian head tie). I’ll never forget the feeling of looking into the mirror when she had finished and feeling absolutely overwhelmed because wow, I really am that girl. We did a full glam look – silver glitter on the lid and a smokey black shadow in the crease, lashes to the heavens and a fully sculpted brow. I had never felt so remarkable and it was a feeling that I was able to give other people, even when I started out just doing my friends’ makeup in my res room with my own limited makeup collection. As I moved more towards beauty blogging from fashion blogging, makeup artistry was a natural progression because the more I learnt, the better I was at my own face, then my friends’ faces, and then I thought this was a talent I could monetise. And so I did.

Photography by Philly Mohlala .

What has been your biggest challenge in growing your brand?

Definitely the pressure of accruing a high Instagram following. I’ve been in this game for years and I had never been too bothered by my Instagram following until I’ve had brands tell me directly that they won’t work with me or pay me unless I have 10 000 followers. And when Instagram created the algorithm, that made it even harder to grow. So even though I have amazing engagement rates (by industry standards), and I’ve actually driven people to buy products, because of that follower number, its sometimes really hard to get work. The fixation on followers makes sense from a business point of view – it’s a proxy to ensure a good investment. It’s just challenging for creators.

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Andrew Hlupo 'My rap aesthetic is inspired by many things. I love the way the likes of ASAP Rocky, Kendrick, Chris Brown, Wiz Khalifa, Vince Staples, Schoolboy Q carry themselves fashion wise. I just feel like they dress comfortably, which is something I think is very important. I tend to entertain colour exploration, thrifting and colour blocking as well because I feel every outfit should be your canvas. I recently became more comfortable with playing around with my hair as I think its an important extension of style and self expression.

To me, hip hop is a tool that can be used to express sentiments and emotions, be it musically or visually.

So the visual representation is as important in driving whatever message the music seems to be driving.

And fashion plays a huge part in this visual aspect of hip hop. In other words, fashion is as important as the lyrics, the production and the performance in the conveyance of

whatever theme is being addressed by the hip hop movement. Fashion catches the eye, and that's why it is important to be visually interesting.'

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Photography by Zwelihle Bukhwele.

" Hair is an important extension of style and self-expression"

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Photography by Zwelihle Bukhwele and Derick Samo Gudo .

TOP 10 INFLUENCERS

Kudiwa Shonhiwa Who is Estelle K Designs targeted to ?

Our 3 pillars are affordability, versatility and being unique. Many of the fabric choices and designs have been experimental. Each of the 3 seasons I have designed have had their own themes. This makes the brand perfect for anyone looking to add something original and unique to their wardrobe. Our garments are easily re-wearable and can be styled with other pieces and still maintain their novelty.

The brand is also a celebration of Africa and being African. In my latest collection, I have incorporated African print fabric for that reason and in the next season, I am looking to include ‘African design’ to the mix to carry on the theme.

How has formal education benefited your business?

I am currently in the final months of my undergraduate LLB and pursing law has been indispensable to my fashion business. Knowing the rights of both consumers and sellers has enabled me to produce a comprehensive ‘terms and conditions’ document to protect my business.

I was also able to formally register my business on my own quite easily as we had gone through the procedure in lectures.

Further, the wide range of laws and scenarios I have been exposed to in law school has enabled me to think out of the box. Nearing the end of my degree, I am definitely more streetwise and business savvy than I was a year ago when I started the business.

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"I am currently in the final months of my undergraduate LLB and pursing law has been indispensable to my fashion business."

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LIFESTYLE

Our Top 5 Editorials Editorials are the heart and soul of Fashsoc as they bring all creatives together to interpret issues that affect young people every day and turn them in to visual stories. Here are some of our favourites:

1. Melanin and the Millennial 2. Who Killed Steve Biko?

3. Up All Night 4. I am Africa 5. Freedom Â

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MELANIN AND THE MILLENNIAL

Mahogany, ivory, honey, golden or midnight. An overwhelming plethora of pigmentation floods one's visual senses. This phenomenon being determined by the amount of Melanin produced by cells in the body.

The darker the skin, the more Melanin. A genetic process, which cannot be influenced, yet it influences so much outside of the objective terms by which it was created.

Entrenched in our countries' histories is the criticism of skin colour. Intensified by the global mentality, that richer & darker skin tones are to be shunned by the fashion industry, as backward ideologies prevail, while pale skin has been deemed as “unhealthy looking”.

First impressions and judgements are daily social “norms” carried out by society. Constantly under criticism and deductions, appearance and presentation dominate many aspects of daily life.

Photography by Half & Halve Story By Nicola Kruger.

L' O R M A R I N S Q U E E N ' S P L A T E

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TOP 5 EDITORIALS WHO KILLED S TEVE BIKO?

A powerful reflection on the importance and need for decolonized curriculums and free education.

Photography by Zach Louw.

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Photography by Justice Machaba.

UP ALL NIGHT

The concept was based around what happens when the sun goes down whether it be after hours studying or getting ready to go out; basically anything you would do at night before life gets too serious

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TOP 5 EDITORIALS

I AM AFRICA

that characterize traditional African attire with a young twist.

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Photography by Derick Gudo and Karniela Klufio.

A celebration of the beautiful and bright prints

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F R E E D O M “It becomes more necessary to see the truth as it is if you realize that the only vehicle for change are these people who have lost their personality.” - Ste-

Photography by Justice Machaba.

ve Biko

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CONNECT WITH US We truly hope you enjoyed our publication. A big thank you for all the support from all of us at Fashsoc!

We would love to get some feedback on content you would like in future issues.  fashsoc.wixsite.com/fashmag twitter - @fashsoc_uct facebook - UCT Fashsoc instagram - @uctfashion

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SLAÉ MAGAZINE ISSUE 1 Published by The University of Cape Town Fashion Society