Is #ZimFashion late on Fashion Trends?

I’M BACK! After a month long hiatus with a trip down south, myself and the blog are back; with fresh new content to indulge in. Whilst I was unexpectedly away on a trip to South Africa I had a lot of free time on my hands – observing and watching the entertainment industry in South Africa. I remember indulging in watching a lot of VUZU TV with V Entertainment and being glued to their 5^th birthday celebrations in Durban July. I remember focusing soo much on what the presenters were wearing – their look, style and fashion! They were always fashion forward and stylish, with my favourite personality being Dineo Moeketsi. Every time the VUZU 5^th birthday ad came on, the only thing I concentrated on was her short pink long sleeved jumpsuit with the gold belt to match - It was my fave!

Ok! Enough narrating and let’s get straight into it! The FASHION TRENDS – I started drawing a comparison between SA fashion and Zim fashion. SA fashion was somehow not any less different from American fashion – what you see in the mag is what you got in real life – fashion conscious, always on point and always on trend. There were different looks to suit different personalities and different stores to cater to different individuals which really ran down to your budget. My obvious shopping stint was Mr Price, The Hub, and Ackermans. But whilst I was doing this, I continued to observe what the trends where, what was dressed on the mannequins and what the current clothing campaign ad was. My conclusion ran down to the following items that where trending on the streets and stores in Joburg;

1. Crop top - short, cute, sexy, stylish, bold and printed! Crop tops where a big trend that dominated the shelves in MRP (Mr. Price). Not only embraced in the stores but with SA bloggers too; with looks from superficialgirls.com zeefashionista.com and fabulously-pink.blogspot.com. Back home the crop top trend quickly came in some stores and died, having spotted a few if not a handful of stores that carried a few crop tops. Not sure if it was a lack of popularity or the trend might officially come later on, only time will tell.

Chenai Muhwati from Fabulously Pink blog wearing a crop top with a matching skirt.

Carlinn from the very popular SA blog Superficial Girls wearing a crop top and Midi skirt both from MRP.

2.Cheeky shorts – denim cheeky shorts where in an upcoming ad campaign with Jays Jays for their summer collection which was slowly starting to take flight. Back home in Zim, I’ve spotted a handful of stores with cheeky little bum shorts but none worn on the streets.

Cheeky summer shorts worn by Carlinn from Superficial Girls, accompanied by the Bowler bag.

3,Circle/Midi skirts – just before I left, MRP’s summer ad campaign had a feature on ladies circle skirts both printed and plain. When I googled it the trend seemed to be going into its second season. Here in Zim however, full length or short circle skirts are embraced by local designs such as Mucha Couture, Blaque Excellence and Shashiko.com, as for the normal individual – I can recall myself and blogger Sharron Mungazi of Deffinatly Shaz who have taken on the trend publicly. But it’s safe to say, I’ve seen it picking up in parts of the city. I remember getting a circle skirt made late last year and my tailor of choice had a difficult time understanding why I chose a circle skirt and why I wanted a flouncy silhouette. Needless to say I had to look for a new tailor and new fabric!

A pic from Sharron Mungazi's blog - Deffinatly Shaz, wearing a deep blue Midi Skirt.

Back in June I did a second post with my print Midi skirt

Once again Chenai Muhwati also rocking the trend on her blog.

4. The Bowler bag - The bowler bag is a round little fellar that has three straps in  total; two shorter straps on each side and one long shoulder length strap. The bowler is super cute and comes in a block colour that can be accompanied with lighter or darker hues such as the one below. Once again, Sapatos had these bags in stock around June and Edgars has a colourful string of bowlers as well. Greatermans also had a few ‘Dazzle’ bowlers before it shut down, and street style wise I spotted a handful of ladies carrying bowlers.

Bowler bag
Sourced Online

5. Ankle Wedge boots – ankle boots where the winter boot of the season, whilst the wedge cut was a popular trend. If I remember correctly MRP, Legit, Ackermans and The Hub stocked on the wedge boot with both zip ups and lace ups. Which automatically meant the young and fashionable where taking on the trend strongly! Coming back home the trend was alive with my own ankle wedge boot from Sapatos, and a few boutiques in the city stocking some. Trend wise it wasn’t known, with a lot of individuals still opting for the good ol’ knee length riding boot to keep warm.

Ankle Wedge boots both from MRP during the winter season.

Ankle Wedges from Sapatos back in June.

6. Snoods – snoods were a big trend during July. Both men and women, young and old were rocking a snood, either knitted snood or the fabric type. The usual long wrap around scarves seemed to be a thing of the past. In Harare however I have only ever spotted a snood once at Joina City’s Sapatos.

Ladies Snood in Woolworths

Men's snood wrapped around a mannequin in Truworths Men.

7. Pullover knits – pullover knits were the order of the day. Whether lightweight or chunky and bold – they were stocked up in a lot of the stores and on the individuals as well. When it comes to knits at home, it hasn’t been fully embraced yet, especially the imprinted sweatshirt or one with graphics and print. Some of the nice pullover knits can be found in Edgars or Truworths – but it is usually streamlined to one look and not a variety.

Ladies stylish pullover knits on the mannequins by studio.w in Woolworths stores.

8. Wellingtons – I’m not sure what the fascination was but wellingtons where a winter favourite. Wellingtons are rain boots that had been given an updated and somewhat fashionable look. Wellingtons where just as popular as ankle wedges than your ordinary knee length boot, with bright colours, funky designs and characters for both the young and old. I haven’t seen a Wellington in Harare, as of yet. I’m still to find out, although they aren’t really my style.

Little kiddies Wellingtons in a variety of colours - also in Woolworths.

With the trends covered above, here is the verdict:

Can we Question Moral values to Fashion?

Where are we on the trend scale? Are some of Harare’s fashionistas too late or we put soo much reliance on tradition and patriotism that soo much of our trends are muted or non-disclosed to the public? You only see shorts, short minis and crop tops at suburban events or parties where the gate is closed and no one knows what’s going on inside OR at a night club where like-minded individuals hang out and understand each other. Taking a mid-bearing crop top to the streets or cheeky bum shorts out on the town may seem sketchy and not the brightest idea as society might shun you, look down upon you and more or less label you. The scenario is even worse if your mode of transport is combis and not your own personal car! Safe to say don’t go there..

Money or Fashion fad? Is it worth it to spend?

Not all cases of fashion trends are late in Zim. Some are on time and on point, if you have extra cash to spare in some of Harare’s top boutiques. Imported labels from Europe, America and South Africa are the norm, and the price tag is too hefty for a normal wallet. In most cases you find yourself calculating ‘the opportunity cost’ when it comes to buying a designer blouse once off or use that money to buy three cute blouses in Powersales. Options are limited as the designer blouse is one of a kind whilst your cute blouse from Powersales is worn by three other different women you bump into in the CBD. Creating an individual look is a challenge which really runs down to your finances. If you are not hesitant, kumabhero is always an option to check out.

What do we say about trends? Can we embrace them?

When we talk of trends we talk of the in-thing! What’s hot, what’s happening at that moment! With the economic scrunch in Zim and the textile industry still trying to revive, a lot of individuals just want to be clothed and not look at trends because it is costly, unbeneficial and sometimes the fabric makes you question twice on your investment. Whilst a country like South Africa can invest in trends, the same cannot be said about Zimbabwe. Until we rise above our economic scrunch, trends are the least concern on any ordinary Zimbo’s mind. Putting food on the table and paying school fees is top priority!

So there you have it - What do you say about trends in Zimbabwe? I have covered numerous articles on trends and I have tried a few here and there on the blog. A lot of reliance with the trends I have covered where either tailor-made or assistance from close friends who constantly cross the border between Zim and SA. Now onto you, do you think #ZimFashion is late on global trends? What are your thoughts?

DISCLAIMER: This article is in the views of the writer. From travelling to South Africa and back home – I only observed, asked and noted down notes through my own research. I’m not affiliated with any of the brands mentioned in this post. I'm always on a quest to question Zim Fashion; by redefining it, bringing it to your attention and finding solutions through this blog.

*The #ZimFashion debate continues! Check out the first post that covered "What's In the Fashion Industry in Zimbabwe", and weigh in.*

Tendai Sophia.

DeMOYO launches Winter Collection at Truworths Borrowdale Branch

I’m in the final stages of exam preparation and finalising school (hence my awkward silence), but I had to make one quick fashion event stop at the launch of Paidemoyo Chideya’s DeMOYO new winter collection range at Truworths Sam Levy Village. I’ve only been recently acquainted with the DeMOYO line, and I must say I’m inlove. The brand screams every epitome that is Tendai Sophia, it is feminine, sophisticated, CHIC and above all, it is tailor-made for the uber- sophisticated modern woman with form fitting silhouettes and a neutral colour palette. (I’ve an exclusive with Paidemoyo which is still in the works, but will be shared very soon! Keep on the lookout). For now I will say that Paidemoyo is off international recognition, having spent well over a decade building and crafting her brand abroad; with international liaisons that include Calvin Klein in New York City. Paidemoyo’s opening speech at the launch expressed her love for passion in art, creativity and inspiration. Stating that her stance is and has always been focus on women’s growth and empowerment, which readily shows in her clothing and her personality.

The launch took place on Friday 30 May, at approximately 6pm (yours truly arrived 18.15pm, with my sidekick and sister @ChipoLace). Familiar faces on rotation were @TatRobin, Shamiso Ruzvidzo, Ruvheneko Parirenyatwa and Fungai Tichawangana (the guru behind ZimboJam). Three models worked their stills in DeMOYO creations, first with formal casual attire and the next rotation they donned some of DeMOYO’s best evening couture pieces. And guests were treated to light snacks and bubbly. The launch covered just over two hours, but a lot of pictures, selfies and interactions took place, it’s all about Network Marketing empire!

I thoroughly enjoy how these events and launch parties are increasingly growing to promote local production (and can be super fun!). I’m sure you are well aware about my strong stance and advocating on local fashion, production and consumption. Anything to boost our Fashion industry and put it on the international map, is what Signature Toscie stands for. With that said I hope you will pop by Truworths at Sam Levy Village during the 2014 winter season to purchase a DeMOYO piece, yes Truworths is a bit on the pricier side but I promise you the material, texture and silhouette of the clothing is all worth it.

DeMOYO details:

Facebook; www.facebook.com/DeMOYO

Twitter; www.twitter.com/Ms_DeMOYO

Web; www.demoyocollection.com or www.paidemoyochideya.com

Yours in Glamour and photos from the event below;

Tendai Sophia!

DeMOYO Collection on Display

DeMOYO winter shift dress in this season's winter "white trend".

Model wearing DeMOYO and Entertainment for the evening was provided by Cathy Mhlanga

Models showcasing DeMOYO.



 

Loved this model's make up done by Vault Cosmetics before the Launch Party 

The timeless crotchet dress, which has received its fair share of international recognition was given a demure twist for the Zimbabwean audience.

Beaded Evening gown

The Crowd 

Myself with Paidemoyo and my sister.
Photo courtesy of @TatRobin

Footsies, shoes, heels! Call them what you want but we took a snap!

Have a look at some of these pictures and more on my Instagram account @tendaitoscie

*FIN*

HIFA: Festival Fashion Inspiration

Harare International Festival of the Arts is an exciting annual year festival that combines music, drama, the arts and of course FASHION! This year’s theme is to “Switch On”, so as a blogger, it’s my job to let you in on the festival fashion trends that you need to have a lookout for. Now there are so many festival looks and trends to go by, but since the weather in Harare has been a little off lately; with the cold spells and the sudden rain, its sure safe to consider a little incorporation of some warmer gear when attending this year’s edition of #HIFA2014.

The HIFA Festival Fashion Inspiration will be a two part feature that will cover the ladies fashion and the gentlemen’s fashion. The first part feature will cover the ladies fashion, which will be broken down into three stylish segments; Festival Chic, The Reluctant Rebel and Trend Darling (because to be honest there are so many choices to choose from for Ladies fashion).

 

Festival Chic

Festival chic is the epitome of good ol’ fun festival fashion that includes easy breezy summer frocks, maxi dresses and fun circle skirts. Make the most of your summer frocks and minis at #HIFA2014 by pairing them with brogues, vans, espadrilles and boots to keep warm and fuss free whilst jamming to an energy filled concert. 

An all Black festival look is good to keep you warm, especially during an evening concert.

The Reluctant Rebel

Reluctant Rebel reminds me of a free spirit/edgy persona which really encompasses COMFORT as the main factor, whilst still looking good. Reluctant Rebel is what I would like to define as Grunge-Glam (which is a revolving trend right now), from the 90s a la Rihanna and Beyonce’s current fashion forward looks. Channel the fashion by bringing out a pair of cheeky shorts, graphic tees, statement jewellery and flat ankle boots. Comfort pieces are emulated through a good pair of boyfriend jeans, denim vests and long oversized tee shirts. Leather is a big trend with Grunge-Glam, but since real Leather is pricey, opt for the leather look alternative with the leather look jacket, boots and tassled sling bag.

Boyfriend denim to keep on stylish and warm whilst on the go.
Set from Signature Toscie

Grunge-Glam

All sets and photos taken from polyvore.com and pinterest.com

Trend Darling

Trend Darling translates to top trends right now which are crop tops and PRINT! Print is still alive and pretty much everywhere (and receiving more fashionable updates). Bring out your best and personalized print gear a la Tanya Nefertari, who does not disappoint with her print ensembles and 60s mod inspired collection. I’m a big fan of her print incorporation in her designs.

Be inspired to wear a Long print maxi and stand out from the crowd. 

Tanya Nefertari printed jumpsuit and Mod inspired shift dresses to wear at a
festival. Photos taken from TanyaNefertari.com

Crop tops are for the brave; I say this because they are tummy and mid-riff bearing. Look into this trend by opting for a crop top tee shirt or vest with a high waisted skirt, and finish off with tons of bold accessories. If you are a bit self conscious like myself, then add a cover up for your crop top in the form of a denim shirt or a knit shrug. Be inspired by the look below shopped from fashionbombdaily.com

Festival Accessories

Festival inspired accessories are usually two things; bohemian and edgy. Channel festival accessories through floral headbands, braided hairdos, jewel arm parties, long neck chains, John Lennon inspired sunglasses and flat ankle boots. Closed shoes are a must have because you will spend the day rooming around on grass and sand, so comfort is key and keeping your footsies under wraps is the best option. Another accessory to add is outer wear; since the weather in Harare has been unpredictable. Bring along a long cardi, leather look jacket, a sweater and a scarf; which you can tie around your waist for the time being.

Floral Headband and those John Lennon sunnies to match

Other than looking good, festivals are a great way to have some fun and learn something new in the arts department. #HIFA2014 is only around once a year, so make the most of this opportunity and dress up in festival gear; whilst at the same time taking in new cultures and practices from headlined international acts such as Dobet Gnahore and Josephine.

With that said, do share with me which of the looks above best represents your personality this festival season? Leave a comment below and let's get talking. You can also tweet with me @tendaitoscie and have your say!

Yours in Chic and Glamour;

Tendai Sophia

HIFA 2014’s full schedule is available for download on Google Drive and ISSUU.