Fashion: Bongiwe Walaza Jo’burg Fashion Week 2011

Bongiwe Walaza [South Africa]

Bongiwe Walaza grew up in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa and as the daughter of a home dressmaker, was inevitably surrounded by fabrics and learnt to make clothes. Initially however, instead of following a career into fashion Bongiwe ended up studying Electrical Engineering, but kept on designing and making clothes for herself and thus began to build up a loyal client base in the process. In order to improve her skills Bongiwe made the decision to return to school in 1997 and retrain in the field.

[Image credits: Jo’burg Fashion Week 2011 Bongiwe Walaza/Simon Deiner]

Over a decade on Bongiwe Walaza is a staple of the South African fashion scene, has showcased her designs all over the world and has won several accolades for her work. Her recent collection for 2011 sees feminine dress silhouettes with details such as voluminous skirts and high collars that gives a nod to the characteristics of Elizabethan fashion without being overwhelming. Waists are cinched in giving definition and delicate detailing around necklines, sleeves and hems rounds of a look that is feminine and easy to wear. Designs make use of signature prints that have characterised previous collections.

…designs that go straight from catwalk to closet

Additional Details:
For further information visit: www.ifashion.co.za