Fashion feast at 2016 Fashion Recognition Awards
Local designers were honoured at the Durban Fashion Fair Recognition Awards on Saturday.
DURBAN designer, Kathrin Kidger, took home the Durban Designer of the Year Award at the vibrant Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) presented by the eThekwini Municipality at the 2016 Fashion Fair Recognition Awards on Saturday.
Mirroring the vivid colours, neon accents and strong African prints that characterised many of the DFF 2016 showings, Kidger translated her priorities of producing clothes locally and reflecting her southern African heritage into a captivating collection on the third night of this prestigious annual event. Business support programme manager, Sindi Shangase, who has driven the DFF from the outset (2012) and presented many of the awards, said that the DFF Fashion Recognition Awards had been introduced last year to recognise the contribution that fashion made to the city’s economy.
Although the DFF 2016 has tackled more serious issues such as the advancement of the industry at large and the support and development of young talents and entrepreneurs, a light spin was put on the closing event by hosts SA Idols judge Somizi Mhlongo and television presenter Basetsana Kumalo.
Another big name in Durban fashion, Amanda Laird Cherry, received two awards – the Fashion Business Award and the Durban Fashion Legend Award. Celebrating 20 years in the fashion business this year, Laird Cherry has been a loyal supporter of the DFF, showing collections over a number of years.
Three years ago, the DFF introduced a model search, providing an opportunity for youngsters from disadvantaged communities to carve a modelling career for themselves, starting with the 2016 DFF. Jessi Kalambayi and Njabulo Mzobe were named the New Face of the DFF at the awards.
