Inspired by modest designs, such as those of his grandmother, to South African fashion brands, such as Rich Mnisi, Sophiatown native Wesley Swartz is all about creating pieces that speak to the essence of who a person is.

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Growing up, Swartz always had the inkling that his career would see him venture into something that required the use of his creativity, even briefly dabbling in music. “I would always see my granny sewing, then I realised you could actually make money out this.”

Now a fulltime designer, for about eight years, he still recalls the first item of clothing he ever created – a t-shirt made of both Lycra and leather. “Something I would not do today, as the two do not go well together.”

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Swartz’s goal, within the fashion industry, is to go beyond the thread, as he envisions to be much like the conglomerate, Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH), who houses various luxury brands across various sectors.

@caxtonjoburgnorth WATCH: Wesley Swartz shares his love of fashion and all things that inspired him to get into the industry. Video: Neo Phashe #Northcliff #Fashion ♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North

Part of the ambition he has for his fashion brand, 80AD, is to use it as a platform geared at youth empowerment and community transformation. He does this through his mobile development and skills programme, which allows young creative visionaries the opportunity to learn a skill that will, not only clothe them, but help them build sustainable households.

This fashion designer figures he is at the frontier of creating a world of his own design. One that encourages, not only a freedom of expression through unique styles, but also gives deserved skills to those who could go on to impact the world around them.

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