Fashion students ‘Stars of Africa’ at Vodacom Durban July

SOFTCOPY REPORTER

Fashion and Textiles students, Siphiwo Treasure Buthelezi and Tanyaradzwa Tirivanhu were part of the top three 2019 Vodacom Durban July Young Designer Award presented by Durban Fashion Fair.

Buthelezi took second place, while Tirivanhu came in at number three. The two showcased their outfits at the Vodacom Durban July which took place at Greyville Racecourse on 6 July 2019.

The competition had 143 entries from hopeful fashion students from around the KwaZulu-Natal province. This year’s theme “Stars of Africa”, saw students using ideas, shapes and silhouettes rooted in traditional African culture and then steering these concepts into contemporary and often futuristic outfits.

The panel of judges, which included Durban design stalwart Greg Wallace, Sindi Shangase of the Durban Fashion Fair and Invited Designer Kathrin Kidger, enthused over the depth of interpretation of the theme and the high level of construction of the often challenging designs. “I feel very excited more than anything to be a part of Vodacom Durban July student designer competition, a little nervous too because this is my first time competing on such a large scale,” said an elated Tanyaradzwa Tirivanhu.

His garment depicts a story about the women of Weya located East of Zimbabwe, and it is also inspired by their embroidery, patchworks and beading. Buthelezi showcased a two piece garment that is fully beaded in various colours to reflect his concept of Africa as one country, instead of it looking like different countries.

Top three in the 2019 VDJ Young Designer Award (from left): Tanyaradzwa Tirivanhu, Makhosazane Ntshangase and Siphiwo Treasure Buthelezi pose with their models.

Tanyaradzwa Tirivanhu with model, Vuyelwsa (GSA).