David Tlale, Kgothatso Tsotetsi, Marianne Fassler & More Designers To Showcase At The AFI Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week

David Tlale, Marianne Fassler, Tsotetsi KL by Kgothatso Tsotetsi and Stephania Morland are some of the designers presenting their new collections.

Here’s their interpretation of prominent trends.

DAVID TLALE

David Tlale has one of the most anticipated shows of fashion week.

On his new range

Tlale, who’ll be showing 60 ”looks”, says the collection will consist of fabrics including tartan, lace, sheer and fur.

It’s inspired by ”sexy couture”, with silhouettes from outfits for the boardroom to cocktail dresses and evening gowns.

On the show

“We looked at our previous collections and tried to improve on them.”

On the local fashion industry

”Fashion weeks are a platform for designers to meet and showcase to buyers. They’re the first step in a process to get our designs onto international ramps.”

What’s next?

On March 19 Tlale will head to Dubai Fashion Week to showcase the same collection, but with a few new elements added.

Where does his brand fit in with all the international chain stores offering options to the local market?

”I see it as an opportunity to strengthen my signature and create high-quality garments.”

MARIANNE FASSLER

Marianne Fassler describes herself as “anti-trend” and says there isn’t enough time for her to design as much as she would like.

On her new collection

For her collection Fassler experimented with colour and textures and says she saw the magic of pleating.

“I used a lot of silks and velvets, including contrasting leather panels.”

The collection will consist of 45 pieces.

On her work ethic

” I always try and stretch myself.”

On the value of fashion weeks

”Since 1995, when the world started noticing African design, fashion weeks in South Africa have given designers an international platform.”

On chain stores

”Over my years in the industry I’ve been able to supply a few chain stores. In these instances I don’t see myself as a manufacturer but rather as a creative workshop.”

TSOTETSI KL BY KGOTHATSO TSOTETSI

Tsotetsi KL’s fashion career was launched in 2013 when he won the AFI Fastrack competition.

On his new collection

“It’s inspired by sock brand Falke. I’m impressed by the attention the brand pays to its designs and I’ve tried to incorporate these into my aesthetic.”

The collection consists of 18 looks and shows on Saturday.

On fashion design

”All designers must have a strong idea of the kind of woman they’re designing for.”

On threats to the local industry

”The Chinese supply chain is the biggest threat to local design talent.

But I’ve learned to build up my customers from a one-on-one client base.”

STEPHANIA MORLAND

In the fashion industry for more than 20 years, Stephania Morland has been consistent with her aesthetic.

On her new collection

“It’s called Dear Cape Town - inspired by the city’s street art. The city itself inspires me, from the blue sky to Sea Point and our beautiful beaches.”

On the show

It will consist of 40 looks, including one bridal and two bridesmaid’s designs.

“I have played a lot with prints on silk and textures of fake fur.”