Skeleton Key Couture opens the door to Vancouver Fashion Week for local designer
More on the designer Jessica Scholtz who will be heading to Vancouver Fashion Week in October.
Glenvista resident Jessica Scholtz (30) started out as a graphic designer, studying through the University of Johannesburg.
“I stupidly thought I would rather not deal with clients so made the decision to study graphic design not really knowing what it entailed,” she explained.
“I remember being very miserable while I was studying because I wasn’t getting it right and when I did start getting it right I discovered I really hated it.
“I then made the decision to study fashion design part-time at Uberglam School of Fashion.”
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When asked what it was about fashion that sparked her interest she said, “I can’t say I am the most fashionable person. I am not into fashion trends and that kind of thing.
“But I am very creative in wanting to make my own stuff – mostly because nothing fits me right as South African sizes are not kind to taller people.
“Also there is not much to my taste, so I wanted to be able to make my own unique clothing and fit it properly.”
Skeleton Key Couture first came to life in 2014.
“Skeleton Key Couture started out as everyday wear, I wanted to take pants and shirts and such and spruce them up and give them more of either a Victorian, gothic or steam punk feel,” she explained.
“This is what I showcased in my first show.
“It was awful and I was so stressed.
“Though the collection didn’t work out too badly I look back now and cringe, but it did give me a lot of experience and allowed me to explore more of what I would like to do.”
Jessica gave Skeleton Key Couture a break.
“I then did a second show with a collection of more pretty designs, not to my personal taste but it allowed me to push myself.
“After this I decided it was time to go back to Skeleton Key Couture as it had always been there in the back of my mind,” she explained.
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When Jessica first received the invite to Vancouver Fashion Week she thought it was a scam, but couldn’t find the catch and began researching the invite.
“The more I looked into it, the more I realised it was real,” said Jessica.
“That I will be part of Vancouver Fashion Week is terrifying and exciting and I am not sure if it has completely hit me yet.
“This is such a big opportunity for me as I have only just started out.
“You don’t expect to receive invites like this when you are only just starting out.”
She will be showcasing 12 outfits as part of her Obsidian Collection during the October event.
The Obsidian Collection is an artistic fashion experiment inspired by the rapidly cooled, natural volcanic glass after which it is named.
The looks draw inspiration from the contradicting visual appearances, properties and varying colour shades of this element.
“While obsidian is hard, it is brittle and will shatter under pressure,” Jessica explained.
“While the edges are scalpel sharp, the textures of broken obsidian are smooth and glassy with soft ripples and curved fractures.
“My collection is a blend of fine satins, sheers and intricate details brought to life through a contrast of darkened colour shades, rich blacks and glistening silvers.”
Jessica is backed by a large close-knit family who have always supported her throughout her journey and continue to support her.
Jessica, who makes all her own designs from start to finish, hopes this show will open the door for her into the world of fashion.
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