Here at Vauxhall Fashion Scout, we are proud to support talent both homegrown, and international. This season the Ubuntu International Project brought London Fashion Week South African talent to showcase fair-trade, sustainably sourced craft, and provide a platform for their homegrown creatives. Seated at the show were members of mainstream fashion press, Grazia Daily, and online retailer - and supportive platform - Not Just a Label.
Showing with Ubuntu this season was Clinton Lotter,
who showcased streamlined, suede, feminine pieces in midnight hues of blacks
and electric blues. Ending the show- an egg shell blue, exposed-back dress. Next up- Frankli Wild, whose accessories were
intricately beaded, and embellished onto the collection’s jet-black catsuits.
Incorporating traditional African techniques with a contemporary edge. Jose Hendo’s bias-cuts made for unique silhouettes and shapes,
including a floor-length coat with oversized hood. An earthy palette of ochres,
mustards, tomatoes and moss green gave it an authentic heritage feel. The final statement was made when models with T-shirts
emblazoned with slogans:‘TRADE NOT AID’ ‘AFRO ECO ‘AFRICAN GROWN & SEWN’
‘AFRICAN COTTON CROP 2 SHOP’ ‘100% MADE IN AFRICA’ and ‘LOVE FROM AFRICA’.
Second part of Ubuntu International Project was Focus Nigeria. Featuring Ayo Van Elma, showcasing traditionally, heritage pieces with African prints, and an incense aroma filling the show-space, making for an ambient catwalk experience. Zohi Taglit’s collection was an array of traditional, contrasting prints, paired with contemporary, street-wear inspired, thigh-skimming pleats, and volume-sleeves. Relaxed-fit, combat trousers styled with printed shirts, knotted at the waist daringly bared midriffs, and made for a nonchalant, kind of street "cool". Hints of traditional prints were worked into the collection, making for a stark contrast against the strategically placed pockets. Finally, House J’ola combined prints with hints of glamour in the form of sequins at the hems and waists, incorporating hot pinks into the mix to modernise the collection. The silhouettes were streamlined to the models figures and the cuts were feminine, clean and simple.
Sarah Jayne Potter VFS Contributor
Follow her @sarahhhhrah
Follow her @sarahhhhrah
Photography by Alina Negoita