Last week, I was lucky enough to attend the Red Carpet Fashion Show held at Cassia restaurant on Nitida Wine Farm.
Guests were spoilt by far more than just the promised feast of fashion. We were all greeted with a glass of bubbly against the backdrop of Nitida’s lake, which was lit up by falling blue water for the occasion. While waiting for the show to begin, there were snacks to be nibbled, Bisquit Cognac cocktails to be sipped, and nail bars to be visited for an express mani. Needless to say, I was sitting pretty with a smile on my face.
The doors to the fashion show opened and I took my seat at the end of the ramp with the rest of the media folk to wait for the fun to continue. Master of ceremonies Natalie Becker took the runway to introduce the line-up of designers – Stefania Morland, Beach Cult, Joanna Hedley, Craig Port, Jagadi Couture and Bo &Luca. Diesl Eyewear and Karen Fay jewellery also featured.
I kept a beady eye out for any trends that continued to pop up throughout the designers’ collections. Here’s my rundown on what can be incorporated into your wardrobes this season…
Sheer inserts
Lately, the ‘nearly naked’ look has been all over the red carpets (most recently at the Met Ball) and the trend was no stranger to the Red Carpet Fashion Show runway. This look should definitely be kept for special occasions when you won’t be caught out in the cold, or you can layer over the sheer piece for a more casual look while simultaneously knocking out that chill factor of Cape Town winter.
Faux fur
Faux fur is an elegant way to dress up winter favourites such as a polo neck with blue jeans. Plus, there is no compromise between style and warmth. Add some faux fur to your wardrobe whether it’s a gilet, shawl, clutch or trim detail.
Red
A firm favourite colour choice on the runway was red, from scarlet dresses to rich burgundy stack heels. (On that note, the stack heel was a popular choice, as were nude heels.)
Slits
Slits were popular too – the higher the better, which has been the case when it comes to fashionably showing some leg these days. You can find the slit for you in skirts, dresses or even a white gown for those who are getting married.
Men
For the men it was all about the texture! Textured suit jackets and furry jerseys added more detail than usual to the men’s outfits. A less practical trend for winter, but one that should be kept in mind for the summer months: thick-strapped slip-slops.
Aside from the autumn collections of the other designers, Bo & Luca showcased its bridal gowns and Joanna Hedley previewed the summer collection of her beachwear label, Beach Cult.
Photogrpahy Julia Janse van Vuuren, Cassidy Emmanuel, Rebecca Jacobs