S/S Edition (1): There’s just something about Black Cat Eye Sunnies and Brogues

There’s just something about black cat eye sunnies and brogues that sets them both apart but yet so versatile. They are probably the new defining trend for accessories for the past two years or so, both being accessible, stylish, and my personal fave; they are both a signage from the 1950s fashion era (think Marilyn Monroe is white cat-eyes and Audrey Hepburn rocking a mean pair of cigarette pants with a mens’ inspired brogue to finish the look). So what is it about the two of them that I like?!

Well first and foremost cat-eye sunnies are everywhere on the fashion scene (if you don’t own a pair, then you probably should by now) and I especially admire them in black because they can go from day to night (and of course Miss RiRi wears them best) with just about anything!. Furthermore, black cat-eye sunnies have become a style statement for many a celebrity, from music videos, to appearances to a day out shopping; the little cat-eye is just an obsession for me because they are literally everywhere!

Myself in my cat eye sunnies. For now, they go everywhere with me.

Now the brogue! Any living and loving fashionistas knows that the Brogue is actually a mens’ shoe! Yes, its this dandy-quirky androgynous masculine shoe (call it what you what) that has been womanized into something “ohh-so-for-the-ladies”. It still keeps its strong masculine persona by being worn to complete a feminine outfit with a taste of quirkyness to it. Why do I love the brogue?! Well its no doubt comfortable and there’s no doubt its competing against the pump, as every girl’s go to laid back shoe. Its actually also quite versatile because it works with just about everything; from a pretty summer frock to undercut girly shorts! I think it’s great for any casual queen (unfortunately that wouldn’t apply to formal wear).

Myself in a pair of brogues during this winter.

So yes, there’s just something about black cat eye sunnies and brogues that keep growing in my closet. Off course my vote is on my black cat eye sunnies with a touch of purple detail (and yes, they go everywhere with me, best believe I would leave my handbag behind). The next thing that’s just got that little something is clutches! Its time to switch it up from the tote and oversized handbag, to something small, light and stylish!

As always...

Stay Gorg and Glam,
GD

Glamour and ZFW 2013

Zimbabwe Fashion Week 2013 (the premier of Zimbabwe Fashion) is just upon us, running on the weekend of the 29th-31th August 2013 at Harare’s fashion emporium mall, Sam Levy Village. There’s already so much hype, excitement and anticipation building up to the event that as a fashion blogger I cannot be left out. So in its fabulous fourth year running, ZFW is quite exciting this year. To kick it off there was the very successful model search on June 1^st 2013 at Sam Levy Village (at the old 360 Bar and Grill restaurant) in partnership with South-African company, Group of Creatives. What was really great about the model search is the emphasis on promoting our very own local models (both guys and girls) as well as to boost them into the modelling industry.

Next up was the ZFW young designers programme (YDP) that seeks to also promote young, up-coming designers and to put them on the fashion map. I for one am pretty passionate about young designers as I believe in promoting new innovation and creative ideas for the fashion industry; it gives it depth, much more growth and good exposure. Some of the YDP finalists are not new to my blog and include Tanaka Leroy Samukange (of 7.30 Apparel and LLF for July). The Young Designers Competition will showcase on Saturdya 31 August at 4pm (crosses fingers that I attend this).

Young Designers Programme Photo Courtesy of ZimFashionWeek.com

And last but certainly not least, is the headlining designer. Last year ZFW was graced by renowned South African couture and celebrity designer David Tlale, who just showcased his recent collection at the Mercedes Benz South Africa Fashion Week in Cape Town. This year, ZFW is hosting another mega designer and UNICEF Goodwill ambassador, Gavin Rajah. Now Gavin Rajah is a very successful South African designer hailing from Durban, and has had a strong impact in the South African fashion industry. Some of his couture pieces have been featured in fashion editorials such as Glamour SA, Cosmopolitan SA, high-end magazine Vogue, as well as the Los Angeles Times and L’Officiel. Not only a great designer, Gavin Rajah is also a very strong philanthropist with his renowned work in charity organisations (having launched POSITIVE, an HIV/AIDS fundraising event for children living with HIV) and his immense contribution to African Fashion, having been the first African to attend and speak at the Global Fashion Conference in Milan. Gavin Rajah will be headlining his collection on Saturday 31 August at 9pm (21.00 Hrs).

Photo Courtesy of Simon Deiner

Photo Courtesy of GavinRajah.com

Alot of exciting things lined up this year for ZFW 2013. Fashionistas, bloggers, designers, young designers, shoppers and beautiful Zimbabwean people galore! 

*Tickets are available for purchase next to Pistachio Restaurant by the Clock Tower at Sam Levy’s Village from Monday – Saturday between 10.00 – 15.00 in the ZFW Ticket Booth.

Stay Gorg and Glam,
GD