Vryheid designer wins at Dundee July

Local tailor and fashion designer Sanele Kunene attended the Dundee July 2022 with his models and won a prize in the category of ‘Most Creative Designer’.

He explains that there were three categories at the show, which were ‘Best Male’, ‘Best Female’ and ‘Most Creative’… and he won the latter category.

Kunene lives in the Lakeside area within Vyheid, where he started sewing pants for his friends and school mates while in Grade 8. He has since made a name for himself in the fashion world, as he has showcased most of his designs on the runway. He mentions that he entered the Dundee July in 2019, but unfortunately received no prize. ’’This year, I was ready and prepared for the show. The theme for the Dundee July 2022 was ‘Royalty’, so I decided to interpret Zulu royalty because it’s me and my culture. When I was designing, I made sure I stuck to the theme. I knew I was not just showcasing clothes, as I focused on the finer details. The models had makeup on and accessories that complemented the theme and the garments.’’

He further explained that he is rebranding from ‘City Addiction’ to just ‘Sanele Kunene’ and is in need of new models. “The challenge I had while preparing for the Dundee July was finding models. It was difficult because people just withdraw at the last minute, so now I need new faces for my brand.”

Sanele worked with Ayanda Buthelezi and Kwezi Mbatha, who are both women, as he could not get a male model. “I have another fashion show coming up in September and I need models who are slim, tall and also plus-sized for the show.”

Sanele does not only tailor clothes, but also designs them – from street wear to formal wear, wedding garments, bags and hats.
“I would like to thank the Dundee July for giving me another chance to show off my designs, the models for doing a wonderful job in wearing my designs, and Ithala Game Reserve.’’
Sanele Kunene can be contacted on 081 397 1435.

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