Fashion: Geometric Prints, Structured Forms
Sindiso Khumalo [South Africa]
Bold graphics and geometric prints characterise the work of South African fashion and textile designer Sindiso Khumalo. A former architect, Sindiso studied at the University of Cape Town and moved to London to work for renowned architect David Adjaye. She left the practice to study an MA Design for Textile Futures at Central St Martins College of Art and Design before setting up her eponymous label. Exploring different aspects of textile print design, Sindiso’s architectural training is evident in her style. She uses forms like modernist buildings as points of reference, evident in the structure of the patterns, and the shapes and construction of some of her garments. Sindiso also leans towards developing a contemporary African aesthetic. Past collections have drawn influence from the visual and cultural collisions that exist within Durban taxi ranks.
[Image credits: AW14 – Sindiso Khumalo]
We believe fashion can become an empowering agent by creating a positive economic activities in otherwise marginalized parts of the world. – Sindiso Khumalo
Currently dividing her time between Hackney and Johannesburg, Sindiso advocates investment in empowering marginalised communities. She focuses on creating her luxury collections in partnership with local artisans, including partnering with Zulu craftswoman in rural Kwazulu Natal on some of her textile works, and with NGO’s in various parts of the world to develop new textiles for her collections. Sindiso’s collections are produced by seamstresses based in Cape Town.
[Image credits: SS13 – Sindiso Khumalo]
Sindiso was shortlisted for the Elle Magazine Rising Star Competition in October 2012, where she also showcased her debut SS13 collection. In February 2013, her Aretha Dress was nominated for “ Most Beautiful Object in South Africa” by the Design Indaba Cape Town. She has showcased her designs in Paris at Laboethnik Fashion Weekend and was part of Africa Utopia 2014, Africa on the Catwalk.
Additional information:
Prices for pieces currently on Styled by Africa range from: £175-£405
For further information about Sindiso Khumalo visit: www.sindisokhumalo.com
To purchase from Styled by Africa visit: www.shopsba.com
[Image credit: Images shown belong to: Sindiso Khumalo. If downloaded and used elsewhere must be credited accordingly]
