What inspired African Daisy, your latest SA Fashion Week collection?
An African aesthetic and the essence of a daisy — a feeling that is associated with a daisy which is short and sweet. Silhouettes were soft and organic, resembling those of a flower.
You have been recognised as the designer to collaborate with because of your capsule collection with MRP and Karl Lagerfeld LVMH prize-winner Lukhanyo Mdingi. What is your thought process when you choose collaborations?
There is power in collaboration. The exchange of information and experience opens up a growth-orientated perspective. Collaborations help me ignite new opportunities. I have been fortunate to collaborate with respected brands.
How can designers embrace the support and encouragement of peers in collaborations?
Be open-minded. Collaborations can give birth to innovations and thought processes you might not have been able to achieve.
Your designs are distinctly feminine, from the choice of prints to ruffles and silhouettes. How can women harness the power of femininity through their outfit choices?
Feminine details such as gathers and organic silhouettes bring a soft mood to an outfit. Our brand aesthetics include a soft personality, an organic mood and a feminine woman.
What can we expect from FZS?
More visibility in retail.
Fikile Sokhulu is blossoming into the next big name in fashion
With career-charting collaborations and energetic feminine collections, the designer is on a path to stardom
Image: Paul Shiakallis
Among designers on the launch pad to fashion domination is Durban-based Fikile Zamagcino Sokhulu (FZS). Since her debut on SA Fashion Week's New Talent designer programme in 2018, Sokhulu has become one of the top designers with whom to collaborate.
We speak to her about her upcoming work, her collaboration with LVMH winners and her top summer trends to follow.
Your design spirit is anchored in femininity and youthfulness. Were you always surrounded by positive female figures?
I admire women. The femininity visible in the design aesthetics of the brand reflects that admiration. Fragility and strength play a significant role in the tone and voice of the brand.
Image: Paul Shiakallis
Image: Paul Shiakallis
What inspired African Daisy, your latest SA Fashion Week collection?
An African aesthetic and the essence of a daisy — a feeling that is associated with a daisy which is short and sweet. Silhouettes were soft and organic, resembling those of a flower.
You have been recognised as the designer to collaborate with because of your capsule collection with MRP and Karl Lagerfeld LVMH prize-winner Lukhanyo Mdingi. What is your thought process when you choose collaborations?
There is power in collaboration. The exchange of information and experience opens up a growth-orientated perspective. Collaborations help me ignite new opportunities. I have been fortunate to collaborate with respected brands.
How can designers embrace the support and encouragement of peers in collaborations?
Be open-minded. Collaborations can give birth to innovations and thought processes you might not have been able to achieve.
Your designs are distinctly feminine, from the choice of prints to ruffles and silhouettes. How can women harness the power of femininity through their outfit choices?
Feminine details such as gathers and organic silhouettes bring a soft mood to an outfit. Our brand aesthetics include a soft personality, an organic mood and a feminine woman.
What can we expect from FZS?
More visibility in retail.
Image: Paul Shiakallis
What should women look for in the perfect summer dress?
The dress should be a breath of fresh air; lightweight fabrics, playful silhouette, simple and poetic.
Large print vs smaller print?
Smaller prints are the safe choice, but you can play with the size of prints according to your personality and aesthetic
A maxi dress is too sheer when ...
It depends on the occasion. You can tell if a dress is sheer if you cover your hand with the fabric and it's still vivid.
Is there a rule of thumb to determine the right fit and flare of a maxi dress?
An A-line silhouette complements most body types.
What type of dress should a woman wear to distract from problem areas without covering them?
The best thing a woman can wear is confidence. You need to be comfortable with who you are.
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