Indigenous crafts dominate at President�s Day competition
Dumisani Ncube | Wednesday July 15, 2015 18:00
The indigenous crafts included garments and accessories inspired by different elements such as the national flag colours, Botswana culture, flora and fauna.
The top 20 finalist dressmakers, fashion designers and models battled it out in their respective categories as they showcased their various creative offerings.
The event kicked off with models battling it out on the ramp, all in the hopes of winning the top super model spot in the male and female model categories.
Young models of different sizes, height and backgrounds graced the stage with some notable faces, such as male model Gaofenngwe Dikoloti who has appeared in a number of commercials, taking centre stage. The models took to the stage clad in black tops and pants, and later returned dressed in outfits designed by the dress making finalists, which were medley of indigenous and exotic pieces.
The moment the audience was waiting for came when the top design finalists’ craft were showcased.
The outfits were appropriate for different occasions and environments such as the workplace, dinner and evening wear.
Gomotsegang Mokopanele, whose outfits had the red, white, showcased the striking pieces and black Sangoma colors inspired outfits, which earned her the top spot. The dressmakers’ backgrounds and environments inspired most of the outfits. They used different coloured and types of material.
The finalist’s list was cut to top five, and eventually the top three, from which the winners were selected.
Teto Macheng was selected best female model, while Emmanuel Kayenda was chosen as the best male model.
Thato Mminatau won the fashion design category, with the help of her peacock inspired outfit that shone with ravishing feathers. Sangoma colors (red, black and white) inspired Mokopanele, who was selected as the top dressmaker.
The competition was stiff because there were renowned designers with established fashion empires including Gaone Mothibi and Obonetse Dibeela.
Dibeela used leopard prints and bark made neck and head rings in his designs, inspired by traditional dance and wildlife, giving in a unique African element.
The panel of judges deliberated each category based on creativity, quality and the overall end product. Fashion guru Mothusi Lesole hosted the show.