Food,
fun, fashion and music are what filled the Harare social calendar as we
bid farewell to October! Fashion Weekend Zimbabwe simply known as FWZ is
a budding event that not only brings fashion but also food and music to
eager event goers of the Nation’s capital. The creative and
experimental event took place at Barclays Sports Club on Friday 24
October 2014 to Sunday 26 October 2014, in Harare.
FWZ only
launched in 2013 but has grown from a one day event to a three day event
in just one year. The innovative event is establishing itself as a
fashion experience that offers locals a little more than just trendy
clothing. As Friday afternoon turned to evening, the glitz and glamour
of Harare turned on as the first FWZ event commenced. The ‘Luxurious’
Black tie event officially kicked off. The Luxurious cocktail party was
sponsored by Lux Zimbabwe, one of the key backers of the event. As the
official welcoming party for FWZ 2014,the red carpet affair was attended
by the who’s who of Zimbabwe inclusive of ministers to entertainment
personalities. VIP guests sipped on unique cocktail creations provided
by Cointreau.
After
some mingling, the runway lit up and guests were treated to some fresh
designs from FWZ emerging designers. The Emerging Designers Competition
is part of a programme run by FWZ where selected upcoming and relatively
unknown Zimbabwean designers are given the opportunity to be mentored
by professionals in the fashion industry. Finalists then compete for a
grand prize which includes a start up pack, to get their own business
and creations off the ground and further training. Some of the
up-and-coming designers who showcased their work were, Bridget Nyathi,
Pamela Mashanda and Thandie Mguquka. The stylish ensembles highlighted
the new talent embracing a Zimbabwean inspired approach to their
collections. The winner of the 2014 Emerging Designer Competition was
Tanaka Samukange of “7.30” fashion label. His urban street wear was the
epiphany of cool as it incorporated famous Harare symbols and codes.
Tanaka’s line was bold, young and sleek which saw him taking home the
most desired prize.
The Luxurious cocktail event came to an end with a spoken word
performance and a heart-felt speech by FWZ founder, Shamiso Ruzvidzo.
The determined, Shamiso expressed her desire to see the Zimbabwean
fashion industry grow but also highlighted the difficulties the industry
faces especially with funding. Similar echoes that Zimbabwean
organisers of other fashion events have aired for the past few years.
The stunning launch event welcomed the next 2 days of food, fashion and
musical bliss..
Day two
of the event kicked off with some sleek beats on the decks by DJ Reverb 7
who played a funky fusion of house, hip hop and local tracks. The
October heat sizzled and refused to lower its wrath as the afternoon
activities continued. Fashion and food markets were spread out on the
lush green grass where fashionistas and food lovers had the opportunity
to take in the exhibition and interact with small business owners from
around Zimbabwe.
Locally
made products illustrated the skills of a growing industry of clothing
and beauty products. Handmade head pieces by Vee Hats stood out in the
fashion market which were uniquely displayed on straw grass. The
unconventional and quirky display added to the inspired atmosphere.
Local designers in the market showcased their African print collections
and accessories. Prints from all over Africa were evident especially
the Ghanaian kente cloth. K’emil, a local fashion house had some
impressive designs, which were both funky and chic.
Langa
make-up, a newly launched Zimbabwean beauty line also had an eye
catching exhibition of their products. Langa’s mineral make-up is known
for their natural components which are not so harsh on the skin as
traditional products. The fashion market was a great opportunity for
event goers to network and interact with many start ups and growing
small businesses.
As the
day grew to a close, the Harare sun finally gave in and the grey clouds
took over the sky as the first rain drops fell. While the rain poured it
did not bring an end to the day’s activities. Chris Wright entertained
the crowd with some acoustic tracks, adding a soothing feel to
the afternoon. As the rain surprisingly stopped, designer Moi Amara took
to the stage to open the Saturday night fashion shows.
The
models graced the FWZ catwalk rocking in Moi Amara. Moi Amara, is a new
fashion label on the Zimbabwean scene and is a fusion of Indian, African
and Western designs. Her collection predominately used black , white
and pink colours. The extensive collection also included an electrifying
performance by a Zimbabwean songstress, Ammara Brown. Brown really
brought the runway to life with her electrifying dance moves and energy.
NDNM’s
fashion show followed Moi Amara and this menswear line stunned
audiences. The new urban line was definitely the star of the weekend.
Gwi, the man behind NDNM is undeniably one of the must-watch upcoming
Zimbabwean designers. His passion for fashion and African identity were
evident in his collection. The innovative showcase included hip hop and
contemporary dancers, adding an ingenious element to show. His unique
designs can best be described as “The urban African street man”. The
collection was called, “The Colour Theory” which was inspired by Western
and African influences and explores the African mans’ identity.
Gwi added, “The clothes are comfortable and relaxed”. His impressive collection consisted of t-shirts and Kaftans which made use of both Western and African fabrics. The designer joked about how he is currently selling clothes from his car but is working on his retail strategy. The collection received a standing ovation and loud cheers from the delighted audience. The impressive showcase came to a closed with a hip hop heavy performance by Simba Tagz and Teekay who brought sleek swag to the night.
Gwi added, “The clothes are comfortable and relaxed”. His impressive collection consisted of t-shirts and Kaftans which made use of both Western and African fabrics. The designer joked about how he is currently selling clothes from his car but is working on his retail strategy. The collection received a standing ovation and loud cheers from the delighted audience. The impressive showcase came to a closed with a hip hop heavy performance by Simba Tagz and Teekay who brought sleek swag to the night.
Day
two’s last runway collection was by Kun’anda, whose clothing was
inspired by nature, focusing on birds. The powerful showcase infused
feathers, rope and African print to create eye catching designs. The
dresses also featured light flowing trails that added to the glamour of
the designs.
The final day of the event welcomed more sunshine and was the perfect Sunday afternoon chill, with music on the decks and live performances by the Djembe Monkeys. Botswana designer, Aobakwe put on a fabulous and high quality showcase which featured evening gowns. Aobakwe added a sophisticated touch to the weekend and his exquisite finishes on his garments showed the talent this super star of a designer has. His designs showed quality and elegance yet still had elements of sass and sensuality. A regional designer to keep an eye out for.
The three day fashion event ended with the inventive Hause of Stone a label founded by the visionary, Danayi Chapfika. Danayi’s wealth of cultural experiences is evident in her collections. From the woven accessories to the rich olives and greens in her collection, it is obvious that she is a visionary and takes risks with her designs. The vintage styles together with African elements combined to produce a trendy urban and vintage African collection. Her collection was named, The OTHA Collection which explored the modern soiled woman. From panama straw hats, fun stripped socks to flowing garments; the collection was a hit with audiences. The fresh artistic vision was a breath of fresh air on the Zimbabwean runway where vintage designs are rare. As Danayi took her well deserved bow, the runway lights dimmed and live music ended the three days of fashion, food and music.
The final day of the event welcomed more sunshine and was the perfect Sunday afternoon chill, with music on the decks and live performances by the Djembe Monkeys. Botswana designer, Aobakwe put on a fabulous and high quality showcase which featured evening gowns. Aobakwe added a sophisticated touch to the weekend and his exquisite finishes on his garments showed the talent this super star of a designer has. His designs showed quality and elegance yet still had elements of sass and sensuality. A regional designer to keep an eye out for.
The three day fashion event ended with the inventive Hause of Stone a label founded by the visionary, Danayi Chapfika. Danayi’s wealth of cultural experiences is evident in her collections. From the woven accessories to the rich olives and greens in her collection, it is obvious that she is a visionary and takes risks with her designs. The vintage styles together with African elements combined to produce a trendy urban and vintage African collection. Her collection was named, The OTHA Collection which explored the modern soiled woman. From panama straw hats, fun stripped socks to flowing garments; the collection was a hit with audiences. The fresh artistic vision was a breath of fresh air on the Zimbabwean runway where vintage designs are rare. As Danayi took her well deserved bow, the runway lights dimmed and live music ended the three days of fashion, food and music.
FWZ has
made significant strides for its second year running. The event is not
only a fantastic platform for upcoming designers to showcase their work
but for the entertainment and dinning industries to collaborate with the
local fashion community. FWZ brings a little more to the runway than
just fashion. From the daily markets to DJ’s spinning tunes, there is
something for everyone. The growing event offers something new to the
Zimbabwean events calendar where locals are adding their own flair and
touch to the industry. Proud African identity is a common theme that
dominated at this year’s event. While African identity is a continuous
exploration, Zimbabweans are redefining their uniqueness and are doing
so fiercely and creatively. For a two year old event, FWZ is on the
right path and the unique fusion of fashion, food and music makes this
event an ideal summer weekend.
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