South African Fashion Designer Talks Her Passion For Fashion, Meet Tshilidzi Phaladi
Tshilidzi Phaladi, South African fashion designer and owner of Chilidzy Dee Designs showcased her work at the just concluded Nairobi Fashion Week. She CHATS with Cheptoek Boyo about her passion
My interest of being a fashion designer started when I when I was young. I used to buy oversized clothes and resize them to what I liked and my body size. Unfortunately, my parents, like many back then believed a job is something you go to every morning.
Because of that, I did not pursue fashion design. I became a banker. When my husband moved to work in Kenya, I decided it was time to change my career path. I enrolled at the Evelyn College of Design.
I have four kids, three boys and a girl. Juggling being a mom and a fashion designer is not easy. However, I have a lot of support from my family.
That makes all the difference. I specialise on ladies fashion. My designs are simple, classy and wearable to any body type. If your into sophistication and style, that’s me.
At the just concluded Nairobi Fashion Week, I showcased pieces that were a mix of leather and other fabrics. The designs were bright coloured and more occasional than anything else.
I get my inspiration from African fabrics, especially kitenge fabrics. They are colourful and simple to work with. There is a lot you can do when mixing their rich patterns with normal plain material.
I have dressed South African singer and diplomat Mishumo Madima. Locally, I’d love to dress the reigning Miss Kenya.
Five years from now, I see myself showcasing in top Africa fashion cities like in Ghana, Nigeria and my home SA. When I accomplish that, then I’ll set my eyes on international platforms.
My favourite Kenyan destination is Nanyuki. It’s full of beautiful sceneries. I also love that people are welcoming and don’t discriminate against foreigners. I have learned a lot from established designers. They have taught me to have a strong business sense.
My advice to upcoming designers is to always follow their dream. Get a background in fashion design and have your own style.