Signature Toscie LOVES...

I’ve been doing a lot of soul searching and restructuring as of late, trying to synchronize the blog under just one label with Signature Toscie. I always have a tonne of ideas that jump and constantly pop out of my head, that in most cases I just want to apply the idea right there and then! Looking back at#TheGLAMProject and #LocalLovelyFlavour, which I’ve relabelled to ‘Signature Toscie Styling’ and ‘Love This Label’ respectively so that it doesn’t confuse me nor you the reader. I feel more inspired by my growth and maturity that I feel synchronizing the blog in one direction, under one label will make a lot more sense and for a much easier navigation. So Signature Toscie LOVES is a new label that has replaced the trends section on the blog. ST LOVES will become a one label and header that will cover all the current trends that I’ve discovered in Harare and on the global front. 

For this edition of Signature Toscie LOVES I cover five trends that I’m currently coveting over at the moment: the boyfriend denim, thick chain accessories, sleeveless blazer, delicate necklaces and jumpsuit.

1.Boyfriend Denim
Boyfriend denim is the quintessential pair of jeans that have replaced skinny jeans. They are relaxed, with a loose fitting and can have an extra distressed finish. Rocked with a pair of heels, structured blazer and a tote, boyfriend jeans can be chic with an allure of glamour for a smart casual event. For a much more relaxed look, take boyfriend denim with a pair of sleek trainers and a sweater. 

Boyfriend Denim rocked by Ashleigh of The Dailegh.

2.Thick Chain Accessories
Thick chains can be classy and muted in a stylish way. They can also be worn with a formal ensemble, casual and/or edgy with thick silver chains. Usually come in the form of a neckchain or bracelet, thick chains can also be layered with other accessories, to give a chunkier and bolder look, to create a massive arm candy. I love this thick chain accessory by Dee Kaw Zee jewellery in the Summer Edition of INDUNA Magazine. Also check out accessory boutiques in Harare such as Bling Bling, Glamourize (in Avondale and Arundel Village) as well as Sassy & Chic along Cameron street. 

Snippet from INDUNA Magazine.

3.Sleeveless Blazer 
Something I purely love are blazers, because they are an instant pick-me-up piece of clothing that give a polished finish to an ensemble. When I came across a sleeveless blazer, I was utterly intrigued by the sophistication attached to it. I haven’t come across a sleeveless blazer in Harare yet, but rest assured I will share details if I do. In the mean time, having one tailor made is an alternative route at the moment. 

Crystal Kasper of NewHipster.co.za

4.Delicate Necklaces
These little gems are delicate because of their understated glamour. They can be worn under a blouse or with a deep cut V neck to show off the detail in the charms. They are the perfect summer accessory, when two or three different necklaces are layered together. These gems are on point and super trendy. 

5.Jumpsuit 
A very stylish closet piece for the summer is a jumpsuit. Long and sleek paired with a clutch and/or a tote OR with heels and/or flats. A jumpsuit is easy breezy and stylish, perfect for just about any occasion. Quite a few boutiques in Harare stock jumpsuits, having spotted Passport boutique at the Village, Wardrobe Mix, Lotus in Joina City and Just Fab along Second Street extension. 

                       

A Navy blue jumpsuit with embellishments at Passport boutique, Sam Levy Village.

Now, which are your top 5 trends in Harare at the moment? Do share!

 Stay Gorgeous! 

Tendai Sophia.

Photo Credits:
www.thedailegh.com
www.pinterest.com
www.etsy.com
www.newhipster.co.za 
www.indunamag.com

What’s in the Fashion Industry in Zimbabwe?

I was having a conversation with fellow fashion blogger Tatenda Robin @TatRobin of Concrete Jungle Fashion Zim blog and Ms.TatendaMedia, on Twitter on Sunday 8 December, 2013. And we were looking at what composites the Fashion Industry in Zimbabwe whilst in comparison to an international scale such as South Africa. Her and I have had these conversations before particularly on Zimbabwe Fashion Week and Fashion Weekend Zimbabwe (both on the blog). Although now we were looking at the clothing part of the industry within itself. Yes, a lot of events have been growing in Harare as off recent which gives our local designers a greater platform to expose themselves and their talent. Talks of the Fashion Industry are not new to the Signature Toscie blog, having covered abit of detail on Fashion in Harare (Street Fashion and Retailers).

But now the attention switches to the actual fashion and clothing part within itself; how is fashion illuminated by young people such as myself. My trick to my fashion and personal style is mixing and matching; I’m a girl stuck between Edgars, Jet and Wardrobe Mix stores with regular trips to the Avondale and Village flea market and hence I’ve shared openly my outfits on the blog. I will not lie that creating and coming up with my own Signature look is one I take seriously so I take a lot of co-ordination in what I do.

Recently I have discovered “kumabhero” (bales) and I was absolutely stunned at how second hand pieces of clothing (and I must say in good quality condition) are sold at these open markets for 90% of the cut off price compared to traditional clothing retailers (i.e. Jet and Edgars as mentioned above). Blouses here go for US$1.00- 2.00, jackets for about US$4.00 whilst a second hand pair of jeans fetch for about US$4.00-8.00. Does this however contradict with our own clothing in our own stores?

Then there is our booming luxury fashion boutiques in Harare. Luxury at its best because some of the clothes sold here are actually quite good, with European, South-African and American labels but out of reach for most fashion lovers, if not many. A blouse here can be anywhere from US$35- US$70, now contrast that with a European blouse purchased from kumabhero for 99% fraction of the price; which in most cases has only been worn once and then shipped to Africa. Furthermore, I ask you to make a contradiction here.

Then we have our growing local fashion designers who are home-grown and proudly Zimbabwean. They represent that part of the industry which encompasses a small sector of individuals with raw talent that create their vision into a garment. Some of our local designers include our affectionately known Zuvva by Joyce Chimanye; who has an upmarket but with a retro feel infused, African spirit boutique in Harare’s Sam Levy Village. Other self-made designers include Maita Marimo, Sabina Mutsvati, Colin Ratisai and Goddess (bear in mind that this list does go on) with our young, up and coming designers such as 7.30 Apparel, Rungano Rwedu, Znzorzi Adby, Nhembe Aleth, Black Excellence (all of which have been featured on the blog).

What’s further interesting to note is that our self-made designers are more recognised on an international scale with international fashion events such as South Africa’s annual Mercedes Benz Africa Fashion Week where Zuvva have showcased their collection and Maita Marimo at Nolcha Fashion Week 2013 in New York City. Why is it that foreign markets have a better appreciation of our fashion, more so than our own people?

So I go back to the question that is what is our Fashion Industry in Zimbabwe? Do our fashion lovers take the aspect of Fashion seriously or is it a measure to just keep up with the latest trends? And furthermore, as an individual what are you doing to better our Zimbabwean Fashion Industry? Are we promoting our industry or is it a means to an end?

From my own observation, a lot of young people have resorted to purchasing clothes cheaper and faster which has resulted in quantity rather than quality. This has gone insofar as our fellow Zimbabweans trekking across the border to buy clothes in Polokwane or Messina in South-Africa, whilst shunning what’s back at home. I will not lie because I have been a victim to this but then again; as a fashion blogger I’m growing to appreciate the clothing and the rising talent in my country. I remember @RuvhiPari posing a question to our guests at Fashion Weekend Zimbabwe if any of them were rocking local Zimbabwean designers that evening and to my observation only a handful ascertained this.

What will it take for our industry to shine? I remember a friend of mine who works in Edgars corner First street and Jason Moyo said to me that a lot of retailers have argued that strict import taxes should be introduced on cheap clothing flooding the country as well as European labels so as to boost the clothing industry within Zimbabwe. Furthermore going back kumabhero, a lot of young women (and yes fashion consciousness gentlemen) have resorted to buying second hand clothing in the open market. With just US$10.00, you can buy 10 different pieces of clothing; all it requires is your bargaining power and to know the value of your dollar.

During our convo, myself and Tatenda however had looked at two varying options; just as a small strategy to kickstart that Zim Fashion industry boom we dream off. There was the favoured ready-to-wear collections that are quite popular in South Africa at the moment. Ready-to-wear collections are couture clothing downsized to a level that the average Jane Doe (such as myself) can afford quality pieces of clothing made by a reputable designer. Examples of these collections include Gavin Rajah’s recent 2013 collaboration with Legit stores in South Africa and British designer Henry Holland of House of Holland with his 2013 collaboration with Mr. Price South-Africa.

Could we say this is possible in Zimbabwe’s industry, where Maita Marimo collaborates with Passport Hre on an affordable ready-to-wear collection for three-quarters (3/4) of the original price? In my opinion this could be an opening passage for young Zimbabweans to appreciate local designer talent. Maita Marimo did however have a Pop-Up shop collabo with Passport Harare from 2-8 December 2013 at Passport Boutique in Borrowdale, where her exclusive collection was on display and available for purchase. It was no doubt her collection was exquisite but my only worry was at the price tag. Can a fashion-obsessed girl like me be ever to afford it?

I took this photo of one of Maita Marimo's clothing on display at the recently ended Pop Up Shop at Passport Boutique Village. This particular Dashiki dress was retailing for US$120.00 which is about R1200.00, if the exchange rate is at 1:10

Another photo i took, beautiful festive bodycon dresses on display at Sam Levy's Chapter 2 boutique. Once again these dresses were between US$120.00-150.00 per dress.

The second option came from me, where boutique retailers and local designers dress local personalities so as to amp up their clothing and their brand;with fashion bloggers being at the forefront for me (personally). I can take a cue from Passport boutique and their November photoshoot in Out of Africa magazine that featured Pokello Nare, Hakeem Mandaza and DJ Jason Le Roux who were all dressed in Passport and Kickstart boutique clothing. This is also done monthly by JEWEL magazine that do a superb job in combining local personalities dressed in 100% local fashion for their cover spread. My vision however is to take that designer-cover feel and give it to fashion bloggers; why because of the power of our fashion sense and social media as well as our level of interaction to the real world (most of my friends are fashion obsessed like me and yearn for good fashion). This is however already emulated on international bloggers looking at Superficial Girls dressed by Mr. Price, Baked the Blog and Teeteeiswithme. Take the fashion from the magazine to the real people on the streets. I’m crazy but I believe in style and not to follow fashion trends.

My passion is to see what will become of our industry within the next 5 years. Will it grow and have different departments that includes ready-to-wear, couture, exclusive one-off pieces or loungewear OR will it continue to be a money-making venture flooding the market with cheap imports at the expense of our own textile and designer industry?

I could debate all day about our Zimbabwean Fashion Industry but now I want your opinion. Whats your take? Leave a comment below and let’s get talking.

Yours in Forever Glamour,

Stay Gorg and Glam,

GD

Highlights of the year 2012

2012 was an unbelievable year for a big dreamer like me. Even though everyday adventures in life have their highs and lows, 2012 was different for me; I took charge of what I wanted and only dreamt of. And to be honest it’s a pretty great feeling breaking out of your shell and leaving your comfort zone. I’ve learnt soo much about the Zimbabwe fashion industry in the past year all through my blog and from the awesome people who read it! I’ve been sharing quite alot of me and the Zimbabwe fashion on my blog but here are my top 10 highlights of 2012:

My blog-Signature Toscie

I started officially blogging in May with my then brand new grey scarf being the first post. I’ve always liked writing and reading not only about fashion but with also motivational and inspirational pieces that I like to share every now and then. My blog is a platform of all things Toscie (My nickname and who I’m) and the world around me (Fashion and Zimbabwe).

The Love and Support

I’ve received so much love and support for my blog from Zimbabweans as well as quite a few South Africans. The appreciation for my work cannot half express my gratitude. I’ve met so many people who enjoy what I do and who I can also say, enjoy my vision. It means so much to me especially for a simple and normal girl such as myself who wants to change the world one Gorgeousness at a time.

Passport Store

My undying love from Passport fashion stores will not die! I posted about this fab boutique 3 times (yes THREE!). And I had hoped they would award me with an awesome gift card. But nevertheless, I adore this store to bits; from the decor to the clothing to the atmosphere; I just love this store especially the Sam Levy branch. It’s my favourite.

School!

I’m a big book geek so naturally school is important to me. I’m not a straight ‘A’ student, but I strive to do my best. In my second year now in university, got one more year to go and so far so good.

Mercy Mushaninga

Mercy Mushaninga is my modelling agent (yes, I’m a geeky model) who is also a great mentor. I’ve put her as one of my highlights because I took grooming lessons with her which really helped me to see myself in a different light and boost my confidence. And she’s also very nice.

Shop and Sip with Farai Simoyi

My first fashion event of the year as a blogger. It was a Friday evening and I went from school to this event in two hours. I enjoyed it so much cause I got to meet celebrities (if I can say so myself), bloggers and designer Farai Simoyi herself. It was perfect because Passport boutique in Groombridge was hosting it as well as fashion magazine JEWEL ZIMBABWE and Catherine Ruze modelling agency.

Styled By Africa Pop Up Garden Party

The best Sunday afternoon shin-dig I’ve ever had. It was close to home with lots of beautiful people and awesome music. It was all for a great cause with local fashion as the theme. I had such a lovely time. And this was my second fashion event of the year!

JEWEL magazine ZIMBABWE

I’ve always avidly admired magazines, their shinyness and pack of glossy pictures! So when I saw that JEWEL was looking for a Glam Squad, I thought perfect I will try this. I tried it and now I write for a local fashion magazine part time. My next mission is to raid their offices!

My grey blazer.

My grey blazer is no designer label piece but I love it anyway. It’s in a classy and stylish grey colour with leopard print lining, and I take it everywhere with me. I’ve posted it on my blog’s Facebook page soo many times. It s one of those pieces of clothing that defines you! So you overemphasize by wearing it. Gotta rock it.

My Photo shoot

I did my first model photo shoot early in December 2012 but I’ve decided to use the pictures for my blog. I’ll officially launch them in 2013 and I hope they will be lovely! Mercy Mushaninga was my director.

Here’s to a fabulous and great 2013 with lots of Fashion, Glamour and Gorgeousness. These highlights will forever mark my 2012. Here’s to awesome discoveries in 2013!

Stay Gorg and Glam

GD

  

Fashion Trends and Fashion Individuals at Shop & Sip

Not only was this fab event graced by designer Farai Simoyi from New York and models from Catherine Ruze Agency Africa gracing her designs, but bloggers, fashion lovers and heavyweights in the fashion industry were all in appearance (did I mention there was a red carpet?! Yes there was!). Not only did I get to meet Farai herself but I also got to meet fellow Zimbabwean fashion blogger Tatenda Robin of Concrete Jungle Fashion and my LLF for September. She was so cool and looked lovely in a floral print bodycon dress with a cut out design in the back (I secretly loved her solange inspired hair!) I also got to meet Zim Hip-hop musician Tehn Diamond and the lovely Lochnation from ZiFM Stereo (you guys, she’s gorgeous! Not to mention the neckpiece she was rocking! That’s all I was looking at!).

Tehn Diamond and Lochnation



I finally got to meet Tehn Diamond and Lochnation



Chocolate Princess ladies in the blue dresses with Lochnation

CP ladies with Farai Simoyi

I also got to meet the ladies of Chocolate Princess who were my LLF for June They were rocking out in blue figure hugging bodycon dresses (which is a colour that I love to wear on a day to day basis, I picked that up from my mom). I also spotted Priscilla Chigariro, Zimbabwe Fashion Week’s director in a green little number and Addicted to Shoes’ Pokello Nare whose beige/nude bodycon tiny-layered dress with that spike neckpiece and the matching shoes was by far my favourite outfit of the evening. Not to forget I also had the privilege to meet the gentlemen behind Passport and Kickstart stores, Prosper and Zed (I don’t know where they get their fashion inspiration from but I love it!) as well as Zimbojam’s Fungayi, who speaks eloquent French!

Priscilla Chigariro in the lime/green dress

Pokello Nare

The gentlemen behind Passport and Kickstart stores, Prosper and Zed.

The fashion trends within the Passport store consisted of a lot of loose and flowing blouses, floral and some tribal prints on the pencil skirts, blouses as well and dresses. I spotted a lot less popping colour on display and a lot more neutral colours such as browns, beiges, nudes and blacks especially on the blouses. For the gentleman at the Kickstart store I spotted a lot of blazers in bright oranges and blues as well as neutrals such as greys and stripes.

I'm obsessed with brown handbags! (I owe it to my mom)

Blouses, Blouses, Blouses!

How cute is the bow on this floral dress.

 (Stock was available at the time pictures where taken)

And as for me, I choose to keep my look very comfortable as it was a first for me and I wanted to look at ease. I kept my look low key with no makeup (I’m not a makeup girl) and no jewellery. I had on a black blazer with black jeans and black high heels which I set off with a cream blouse that had an embroidery detail. My hair was in a push back braided down in the sides. “No attention on me” was the motto!

I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I loved writing it! J

Stay Gorg and Glam

GD