Design Academy of Fashion

Fashion Friday 23:07:2010

2010-07-23T02:53:00.000-07:00

Its Friday and time to check out what everyones wearing....

Courtney Caroll - 3rd yr

Suzanne Aldridge - Director

Brittany Stroebel - 1st yr

Monique Solomons - 2nd yr

Ra-eesah Fredericks - 1st yr

Wendy Magson - 3rd yr

Bianca Fobian - Managing Director

Kylie Jannsen - 2nd yr

Jessica Newton - 3rd yr

Hannah Lavery - 2nd yr

Kim Sassen - 3rd yr

DAF/Hemporium/Top Billing Eco Friendly Collaboration

2010-07-22T04:11:00.000-07:00

Recently Top Billing approached the Design Academy of Fashion about designing 6 outfits (3 male/3 female)for their July Eco friendly Edition of Top Billing Magazine. We put the current 3rd year class to the task of creating their looks in groups of 2. We then contacted Tony Budden from Hemporium to see if they would be interested in getting involved and sponsoring DAF hemp fabrics for the project, which they very graciously agreed to. The students all worked extremely well together and managed to create 6 cohesive, thoughtful and Eco Friendly looks. DAF could not be more pleased with the outcome - the shoot was a great success, both DAF and Hemporium got fantastic exposure and most importantly - this project helped create awareness of Eco friendly design, exposed the many advantages of the (often misunderstood) hemp plant and proved that Eco friendly fashion need not be dull or uninteresting!

Thanks to everyone who took part.

The July issue of Top Billing magazine out now!

2010-07-21T03:27:00.000-07:00

The Design Academy of Fashion is hosting an open day on the 31st of July 2010 from

9am-2pm

The students will be exhibiting their work and there will be an array of yummy cakes and tea/coffee available.

So come and visit, view the students creations and indulge in some designer cup cakes!

Hope to see you there!

DAF

I knew I had seen this before!!!

2010-06-05T02:20:00.000-07:00

The new Vanity Fair cover featuring Twilight Beauties, Ashley Greene, Elizabeth Reaser and Dakota Fanning has come out and it seems they have re-done the Vogue April 1940 cover!!

I think it looks stunning although I have not seen a mention of the fact that inspiration was clearly drawn from the vintage Vogue cover.

Which one do you think is better?

Images via-coverbrowser.com and cocoperez.com

Registration

2010-06-03T00:50:00.000-07:00

Design Academy of Fashion (Pty) Ltd is provisionally registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training until 31 December 2013 as a private higher education institution under the Higher Education Act, 1997. Provisional registration certificate No.2010/HE07/002

Vodacom Durban July Young Designer Award 2010

2010-05-28T02:14:00.000-07:00

Cape Town Regional Finalists-including Courtney Carroll (front row, second from right) and Jessica Newton's (back row, middle) designs.

National Finalists-including Jessica Newton's Design-far left

Three Cape Town student designs were chosen to participate in the national finals of the Vodacom Durban July Young Designer Award. Twenty students from Cape Town were originally chosen as regional finalists and two of our talented Third Year students were among them.

The theme this year was "Its a Blooming Great Day" and saw students getting creative with everything flower themed-from daffodil inspired silhouettes to garments made of hundreds of little handmade flowers.

Original Design, construction and translation from storyboard to actual garment were all judged by Malcolm Kluk, Christiaan Gabriel du Toit, David Tlale and Terrence Bray before a final choice was made.

Well done to Courtney Carroll who was one of the Top 10 Cape Town Finalists
Congratulations to Jessica Newton who made it into the Top 10 National Finals to be held in Durban mid July.

Pictures and more information at vodacomdurbanjuly.co.za

Movie Night!!!

2010-05-24T00:10:00.000-07:00

The DAF students are holding a movie night at the college this Thursday, 6:30-movie starts at 7:00- They will be showing Valentino the last Emperor.

R30 get s you a ticket, popcorn and a beverage.

Bring blankets and cushions to get cosy while watching!

Hope t see you there!

Fashion Fridays-Winter Coats

2010-05-18T00:12:00.000-07:00

Pietrie Morton-Aladdin
Ilsje Meintjes-Edgars
May Loubser-H&M

With the cold wintery weather I thought it would be nice to have a look at what students are wearing to keep warm this winter.

Sanelisiwe Sokhela-Hoody-Roxy, Body warmer-Honey Child

Majken Da Gama-Woolworths

Hannah Lavery-Mr Price
Erica Sauzier-Woolworths

Grethe Bredenkamp-Margot Molyneux cape- (past student!!)
Kylie Jansen-Woolworths

Elizabeth Mbulawa-Jacket-Primark, Cardi-Mr Price
Kaleigh Lemoine-Jay Jay's

Winter Trend 2010-Tartan, Checks and Plaids

2010-05-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

Rag&Bone Winter 2009/2010

Marc Jacobs Winter 2009/2010

I was looking through Winter runway shows, searching for inspiration on what to wear this cold and rainy winter and I kept being drawn to the tartans, checks and plaids...and I began to think about what defines these three similar looking patterns.

I did a little on-line research and found this handy pattern glossery http://www.artlandia.com/wonderland/glossary/

Tartan-Woven plaids that consist of stripes of different widths and colours, that were originally patterned to designate a distinctive scottish clan

Plaid-a design that consists of crossing bands or stripes of colour, almost always at right angles

Checks-a pattern of squares

I love tartans, checks and plaids for winter, they are so cosy looking and give any outfit an instant wintery feeling. Be careful of not looking overly sloppy tho, if your wearing a loose check shirt pair it with tailored bottoms and visa versa.

Here is some celebrity inspiration from the runway to everyday wear.

Gwen Stefani

Lindsay Lohan

Jessica Alba

Claudia Schiffer

Christina Aguilera

Fashion Friday-a shoe post!!

2010-05-07T05:54:00.000-07:00

Hannah Lavery-2nd Year
Zoom

I decided to do a student shoe post this week-enjoy :)

Cebokazi Marala-1st Year
Truworths

May Loubser-2nd Year
YDE

Kylie Janssen-2nd Year
Woolworths

Greta Bredenkamp-2nd Year
Mr Price

Salaamah Morris-3rd Year
Zoom

Callen Petersen-1st Year
Mr Price

Marquen Carstens-1st Year
Markham

Elizabeth Mbulawa-1st Year
Mr Price

MET Gala 2010

2010-05-05T02:15:00.000-07:00

The Annual Met Gala 2010 was held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
The new exhibit is all about the woman in America and the fashion they wear...
Here are some of my best dressed for the night.

Best in Black

Mila Kunis-Vera Wang

Kristen Stewart-Chanel

Elizabeth Banks-Gucci

Zoe Saldana-Calvin Klein

Best in Brights

Carey Mulligan-Mui Mui

Chloe Sevigny-Proenza Schouler

Blake Lively-Marchesa

Best in Metallic, Nudes, Creams and White

Nicole Richie-Marc Jacobs

Gwen Stefani-L.A.M.B.

Diane Kruger-Calvin Klein

Kate Bosworth-Valentino

Sarah Jessica Parker-Halston Heritage

Anne Hathaway-Valentino

What has everyone been up to...?

2010-05-04T06:09:00.000-07:00

So here we are, 4 weeks into the second term. We here at DAF cant belive its May already!

Daniel Bradley/Inspiration: Grunge Sub-culture

With the Annual Fashion Show fast approaching; Cape Town Fashion Week and the Graduate Shows; as well as various design competitions around the corner - everyone is busy busy busy!

Anna lane/Inspiration: French Culture/Victorian Era

The 1st years have been working on their first storyboard presentations.

Thandi Pritchard/Inspiration: 1960's Mod Sub-culture

They had to use a foreign or native culture as inspiration for 3 skirt designs.

Second year classroom

The 2nd years have been busy designing their swimwear and sportswear ranges.

Erica Sauzier/1950's/yachting/Varga girls

The theme for the swimwear was 'Traveller'.

Minky Mokapela/Rio De Genaro carnival

The students came up with some truly interesting designs ranging from special occasion to inter-changeable/reversible swim suits.

Grethe Bredenkamp/Thailand

Hannah Lavery/Working Traveller/Reversable Swimwear

The inspiration for their sportswear ranges was the FIFA World Cup as well as incorporating current trends in sportswear.

Hannah Lavery/80's Trend/Inspiration: FIFA stadiums/Active Lifestyle

They could choose any type of sport and had to pay special attention to fabric choice and construction.

Erica Sauzier/Trend: Knitwear/Inspiration: FIFA trophy cup/Contemporary Ballet

Students used everything from the FIFA stadiums and trophy to the soccer ball as inspiration and designed for every kind of sport -be it tennis; horse riding; cycling and even contemporary ballet.

Grethe Bredenkamp/Trend: streetwear as active wear/Inspiration: Brittish Flag/Soccer team

The ideas were original and all 2nd year students had strong concepts, which flowed effortlessly into the final garments.

Finally the 3rd years have been working on their couture dresses for the end of year fashion show

Charlotte Clark

The theme for this years couture is 'Shallow Seas & Ocean Deep'.

Heike Lauterbach

Students were inspired by the creatures of the ocean; coral; waves and even salt crystals.

Sarah Dreyer

Even though this is one of the most challenging market segments to design for, because of the technicality involved, the girls created some beautiful garments which are sure to stand out at the end of year fashion show.

Kim Sassen

This term its shirts for the 1st years; menswear for the second years and final ranges for the 3rd years...

Watch this space!

Versace Internship!!!

2010-04-29T01:15:00.000-07:00

Versace is offering a semester long Internship at their New York offices to the highest bidder.
Donatella donated the Internship to The Art of Elysium, a non-profit organization that encourages working Actors, Artists and Musicians to donate their time and talent to children battling serious medical conditions.

As well as the Internship, the highest bidder will also receive two tickets for the Versace and Christopher Kane show in Milan, a meet and greet with Donatella backstage and signed Versace merchandise and perfume.

I think this is a wonderful way to give to charity as well as the opportunity of a lifetime for one lucky fashionista!!!

The highest bid is currently sitting at 1100USD-follow this link to check it out
http://www.charitybuzz.com/catalog_items/20567?source=carousel

A Military Moment!!

2010-04-26T03:01:00.000-07:00

This morning I found this fabulous shoot featuring Giselle Bunchen in the Korean Vogue showcasing the Military trend and had to share it.

I love the clean lines and tailoring mixed with the very soft looking knit T's.

images via

http://www.style.co.kr/vogue/trend/trend_photo_view.asp?menu_id=02040300&c_idx=010105010000988

and

http://cocoperez.com/2010-04-23-gisele-prepares-for-battle

Fashion Fridays !!!!

2010-04-23T05:01:00.000-07:00

Courtney Carroll-3rd Year
Jacket-YDE (bombshell)
T-shirt-Mr Price (menswear)
Skirt-made herself :)
Beanie-H&M Paris
Belt-Foschini
Shoes-Shoe City

A new term and a new set of Fashion Friday's to enjoy!!!
I love seeing how the students put items together for the new season-hopefully it will give some inspiration for all of you who are having a wardrobe crisis this Autumn.

Elizabeth Mbulawa-1st Year
Cardigan-Mr Price
Top-Primark (UK)
Shoes-Mr Price
Leggings-Mr Price

Vanessa Sasele-1st Year
Jeans-Edgars
Top-Identity
Wait coat-Jet

Busisiwe Sobopha-1st Year
Jersey-Woolworths
Poloneck-Mr Price
Jeans-Truworths
Pumps-Edgars

Brittany Stroebel-1st Year
Dress-Mr Price
Tights-Woolworths
Necklace & Headband-Mr Price
Boots-Rage

Anna Lane-1st Year
Leggings-market
Jacket-Insight-The Lot
T-shirt-a friends
Shoes-Pep

Farren Arendse-1st Year
Jacket-Mr Price
T-shirt-Woolworths
Leggings-Mr Price
Boots-and accessories-Mr Price

Erica Sauzier-2nd Year
Leggings-Mr Price
T-shirt-made herself :)
Grey Top-Forever 21 (Dubai)
Scarf-Mr Price
Locket-Wolf and bros

Kylie Janssen-2nd Year
Dress-Blackbeard and Dare
Leggings-Woolworths
Jersey-Urban
Boots-Country Road
Necklaces-Mens shop and Skerm unkil

Fiina Amarongo-2nd Year
Leggings-Woolworths
Cardigan-boyfriends
Waistcoat-Legit
Scarf-made herself :)
Boots-somewhere in Claremont

Sane Sokhela-2nd Year
Dress-Instinct
Jersey-PicknPay
Hat-Street Vendor
Shoes-Mr Price

Alexander McQueen Fall 2010

2010-04-21T02:31:00.000-07:00

Alexander McQueen's last collection has been revealed in a private showing. 16 outfits from his Hells Angels+Prolific Demons themed collection were shown to a select few. Amazingly detailed fabrics were showcased on designs with drapery and tailoring-which works beautifully.

His shoes are to die for, have a look below at the details.

On 18 February 2010, Robert Polet, the president and chief executive of the Gucci Group, announced that the Alexander McQueen business would carry on without its founder and creative director-it will be interesting to see who they choose to fill the shoes of this creative and dramatic designer.

For the full collection click on the link below

http://www.alexandermcqueen.com/int/en/corporate/archive2010_fw_womens.aspx

Photo's via

http://www.shoeblog.com/blog/alexander-mcqueen-fall-2010/

and

http://cocoperez.com/2010-04-19-a-sneak-peak-at-alexander-mcqueens-fall-2010-shoes

Ayanda Langeni 18/06/1990-11/04/2010

2010-04-12T01:39:00.000-07:00

We are sad to announce the death of Ayanda Langeni -one of our First Year students here at the Design Academy of Fashion.

She will be remembered as a bright young woman, brimming with potential and will be missed by all the staff and students.

Condolences to her family in this difficult time.

82nd Academy Award Red Carpet Fashion

2010-03-10T03:38:00.000-08:00

The Academy Awards is the most prestigious red carpet event of the year, every single actress , designer and stylist have spent months putting together their looks for the evening- and then hold their breathes waiting to see what the public reaction is!!!!
Personally I think fashion is subjective and what one person loves another may hate, although I also think that certain silhouettes and colours should not be worn by everyone-so without further ado here are the dresses that grabbed my attention.

Amanda Seyfried-Armani Prive

I felt this dress was too voluminous for Amanda's

petite frame, and looked a little like a wedding dress.

Anna Kendrick-Elie Saab Haute Couture

A beautiful soft and feminine dress, however

I am not entirely sure of the colour on her?

Carey Mulligan-Prada

I loved this look-it was edgy and glamorous at the same time

and her shoes, hair and bag were perfect.

Charlize Theron-Christian Dior

I am not a fan of satin..or lilac...or bizarre bust pieces

that's all I'm saying on this one!!

Demi Moore-Atelier Versace

A soft feminine look, however I felt this dress was very "safe",

it didn't excite me at all.

Diane Kruger-Chanel Haute Couture

I absolutely loved this- it was fresh and modern,

while still being beautifully feminine.

Kristen Stewart-Monique Lhuillier

I was please to see Kristen ditched her usual grunge look

in favor of this grown up gown. The colour and silhoette are amazing

on her, I do however feel statement earrings would have finished the look.

Maggie Gyllenhaal-Dries Van Noten

Satin creases when you sit down-this is why I'm not a fan-it looks

like a crinkled mess to me-and the print lends itself more to

day wear than a red carpet event-not a favorite!!!

Mariah Carey-Valentino Haute Couture

Eek-this dress is just too tight, it does NOT flatter!!!

Meryl Streep-Chris March

I loved this look on her-its age appropriate and the hair

is soft and feminine!!

Miley Cyrus-Jenny Packham

I thought this was perfect for Miley-

she looks like a sophisticated princess going to a ball.

Nicole Richie-Reem Acra

OK I know this is not everyone's taste,

however I loved this-I think she looks flawless!!

Penelope Cruz-Donna Karan

Ho Hum, as usual Penelope looks stunning-

but I feel like I have seen her in this look a hundred times??

Rachel McAdams-Elie Saab Haute Couture

Rachel was a breathe of fresh air in this beautifully,

soft, printed dress. Her earrings finish this look off perfectly.

Sandra Bullock-Marchesa

A beautifully made gown and I loved her bold red lips,

however her hair was a little boring and the overall look was a little "safe" for my taste.

Sarah Jessica Parker-Chanel Haute Couture

A lot of critics did not like this dress, however I thought

it was beautiful on Sarah. I did feel her eye make-up was a little strong.

Sigourny Weaver-Lanvin

This dress is very beautiful and classic-however

I feel this silhouette does nothing for Sigourny, the colour however

looks good on her.

Zoe Saldana-Givenchy Haute Couture

I love the idea of the ruffles, however the slit in front

combined with the very different colour bodice is confusing to me.

Vera Farmiga-Marchesa

I saved my personal best for last-This is the epitome of Oscar night Glamor for me!!

The colour, the fit, her hair and make-up are all perfection!

This dress is far from "safe" and makes a big statement A+

I would love to know every ones opinions so feel free to comment!!!

images from http://www.style.com

Written by Tania Burman

Student get together

2010-02-26T05:02:00.000-08:00

On Thursday the 18th February our students had little get together at The Fabulous Albert Hall.
Much fun was had by all-including Lecturers (who students managed to drag onto the dance floor!!)

Thanks to the Third Years for taking the initiative to organize everything, music and snacks were great!

Kim Sassen & Heike Lauterbach

Wendy Magson & Kirstin Chancellor-Maddison

Kim Sassen, Brittany Stroebel and friends

Sarah Dreyer & Charlotte Clark

Looking forward to the next one :)

Written by Tania Burman

Lessons learned from Anna Wintour

2010-02-26T04:09:00.000-08:00

R.J. Cutler spent eight months (January to August of 2007) filming Anna Wintour and the team at Vogue as they created the legendary September Issue of the magazine. The September edition is known throughout the industry as “The Bible” and the 2007 edition ended up at 840 pages being the single largest issue of a magazine that has ever been published!

Shortly after he began filming, he made the following observation to a friend who asked what it was like to watch Anna work, "Well, you can make a film in Hollywood without Steven Spielberg's blessing, and you can publish software in Silicon Valley without Bill Gates' blessing, but it's pretty clear to me that you can't succeed in the fashion industry without Anna Wintour's blessing." She seems to single handedly command the $300-billion global fashion industry. Her daily schedules include meetings with editors, stylists, designers, writers, models, art directors, photographers, retailers, filmmakers, actresses, socialites, moguls and even politicians. As Vogue's then-publisher Tom Florio says in the film while discussing her legendary inaccessibility, "She's busy."

What struck R.J. Cutler the most though was that regardless of how busy she was (very!!), she always kept her team moving forward and that every month, like clockwork, another issue of Vogue hit the newsstands. What is her secret? How does she do it? I think the answer to that lies in the documentary- in the meantime though, here are 4 important lessons J.R. Cutler learned from Anna Wintour while filming The September Issue.

1. KEEP MEETINGS SHORT
In an industry where 3-4hour long meetings are the usual, Vogue goes against the grain by keeping meetings short and sweet, a meeting that goes on for longer than 7 minutes at Vogue, is considered long. Everyone comes on time (in fact usually a couple of minutes early), prepared and ready to go for it! If you arrive 5 minutes late, chances are you've missed the meeting.

2. TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS
In one short scene early on, Anna is reviewing some boards with Fashion Market/Accessories Director Virginia Smith. Anna rifles thorough the boards, saying "yes" and "no" as she goes. It's quintessential Anna Wintour: knowing what she wants, making clear decisions and moving on.

3. SURROUND YOURSELF WITH GREAT TALENT
Anna Wintour understands that your only as good as the people that work for you, that bad leaders are threatened by strong team members and that success comes from surrounding yourself with the most talented people you can find.

4. DONT LOOK BACK
A statement that summarizes Anna's management style, comes from her own comment at the end of The September Issue, when she says, "Fashion's not about looking back. It's always about looking forward." Or it might come from Karl Lagerfeld whose favorite expression is "On to the next." In other words -always move forward. Don't dwell on the past. Life is short and there's lots to get done.

Follow this link to the original article :)
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/rj-cutler/what-i-learned-from-anna_b_472236.html

Written by Tania Burman

Project Runway Wii Game???

2010-02-26T03:53:00.000-08:00

Project Runway has been turned into a game for Nintendo Wii and will be hitting shelves in the U.S.A on the 2nd March 2010.
Variety reports that the game will follow the same format as the show, with players competing as fashion designers. Each level will consists of various challenges in which you will design clothes and accessories for models, style their hair and makeup, and then strut your stuff on the catwalk yourself using the Wii balance board. It also features the voices of Heidi Klum, Tim Gunn, Michael Kors, and Nina Garcia as well as the cast of season six giving helpful hints throughout the game.

It will be interesting to see how this concept actually sells, will it appeal to the more fashion conscious teenagers and youth? Will it appeal to serious gamers?
Would you play Project Runway?

Written by Tania Burman

Fashion Fridays 19th February 2010

2010-02-24T06:15:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone, here are some new pics (as promised) taken on Friday of our fabulous students looking fashion forward!!!
Enjoy:)

Majken Da Gama-2nd Year
Top-Edgars
Skirt-Woolworths
Shoes and Accessories -Mr Price

May Loubser-2nd Year

Dress-Vintage

Shoes-Keds

Necklace-Links

Kylie Janssen-2nd Year
Jumpsuit-Mr Price
Belt-Urban
Shoes-Rage

Aadila Touffie-2nd Year

Top-Identity

Jeans-Mr Price

Shoes-Mr Price

Belt-Diva, Earrings-Mr Price, Necklace-Identity

Heike Lauterbach-3rd Year

Dress-made herself!!!

Shoes-Mr Price

Marquen Carstens-1st Year

Jacket-made himself :)

Jeans-Mr Price

Shoes-Markham

Brittany Stroebel-1st Year

Dress-Mr Price

Shoes-Edgars

Beads-Mr Price, Earrings-vintage (from her Granny), Necklace-vintage, Head band- made by herself!!

Ashley Marshall-3rd Year

Shirt-Daniel Hechter

Belt-gift

Shoes-Mr Price

Fashion Fridays 12 February 2010

2010-02-15T11:58:00.000-08:00

We have decided to photograph a couple of students every Friday for a little Fashion Inspiration... Hope you enjoy it!!!

Hannah 2nd Year Student

Blazer-Kluk

Shirt Dress-Mr Price

Belt-Second hand shop

Boots/Sandals-London shopping trip

Thandi 1st Year Student

Dress-Made herself (Love that!!)

Farren 1st Year Student

Dungarees-Tee's Boutique

T-shirt-America

Shoes-America

Marquen 1st Year Student

Cardi-Truworths

T-shirt-Levis

Trousers-Mr Price

Sneakers-Loxion

Hat-Markhams

Michelle 1st Year Student

Top-Mr Price

Belt-Wardrobe

Jeans-Germany shopping trip

Grethe 2nd Year Student

Top-PicknPay

Skirt-Hang Ten (on Sale!!!)

Shoes-Mr Price

Cebokazi 1st Year Student

Dress-Kimbo Boutique

Fiina 2nd Year Student

Jeans-restyled old jeans

Shirt-Namibia

Cardi-stall at the station

Shoes-Ipanema (Woolworths)

I think its great how the students mix and match new and old, expensive items and bargain buys and wear it in their own style!!!!

Written by Tania Burman

R.I.P. Alexander McQueen 16 March 1969– 11 February 2010

2010-02-12T02:37:00.000-08:00

Found dead from an apparent suicide on Thursday the 11th of February 2010 the fashion industry mourns the loss of a great talent.

McQueen was born in the East end of London the youngest of 6 children and left school at the tender age of 16. He was already making dresses for his sisters at a young age , but was given his first break when he joined Savile Row tailors as an apprentice. His next steps on the ladder to success found him working at Gieves & Hawkes , theatrical costumiers Angels and Bermans and Koji Tatsuno.

In 1994 he was accepted at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, his final collection for his Masters Degree was bought in its entirety by famous stylist Isabella Blow.

In 1996 he was named head designer for Givenchy in Paris and was dubbed the ''hooligan of English fashion'' and ''enfant terrible'' by the French press-although this was thought to be more of a reference to his close cropped hair and doc martens than his fashion style and he soon silenced his critics. His 1998 show caused controversy which included car robots spray painting models wearing white cotton dresses and a double amputee model walking down the catwalk with wooden legs. His shows became known for their lavish, unconventional theatrics and his fall 2006 show, "Widows of Culloden" included a life sized hologram of Kate Moss draped in rippling fabric.

In 2000 he started in new partnership with the Gucci group acquiring 51% of his company and McQueen serving as Creative Director.

His accomplishments include the following-
-Being named "British Designer of the Year", which he won four times between 1996 and 2003
-International Designer of the Year at the Council of Fashion Designer Awards 2003
-CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) 2003

Written by Tania Burman

2010-01-19T01:35:00.000-08:00

January 2010

NEWSLETTER

We start 2010 with some great news. As many of you know we submitted all documentation for accreditation to the Council on Higher Education (CHE) in April of 2009. I am happy to inform you that we have been awarded provisional accrditation from the CHE and are now awaiting registration from the DoE and SAQA.

The10th Annual DAF fashion show in 2009 was a great success and we received really positive feedback from the advisory committee. The Committee was made up of Chris Viljoen (fashion director for Elle), Ann Viana (Truworths), David West (Designer) and Maya Prass (Designer).

We would like to thank all Industry members and companies that were involved with DAF in 2009. In particular we would like to thankTruworths who will be offering financial assistance to eight DAF students this year.

There will be some changes in teaching staff this year. Sadly Tania Burman will no longer be a full time lecturer. Tania is not leaving us though and will still teach the Computer Illustration course. We are also very excited to welcome David West to our part time teaching staff. David has been on the DAF advisory committee for 10 years. He has been a Designer at Young Designers Emporium and spent 6 years working as a designer for Truworths. Last year David relaunched his label and opened his first shop in Woodstock.

The DAF team is looking forward to an exciting year ahead and would like to welcome back all our returning studentsas well as our new students. The portfolios we received this year were of a very high standard and we can’t wait to start working with you.

Wishing you all a wonderful year ahead.

Bianca Fobian

Managing Director

DAF 10th Annual Fashion Show 28/11/2009

2009-12-02T00:06:00.000-08:00

DAF held its 10th Annual fashion show on 28/11/2009. The show was a great success. Our sponsors included L'Oreal Professionnel, Scar Hair, Mukup Creative Make-up, SDR Photo, Seventeen Magazine and Robert Thompson Designs (designer chairs and lighting). We Are Awesome were also there to take photos backstage (http://www.we-are-awesome.com/nights/daf09backstage.html). We would also like to thank Paul Snodgrass for being our MC for the night.

Our advisory committee consisted of Chris Viljoen, senior editor at ELLE magazine, David West, Maya Prass and Anne Viana, Truworths Buyer. We received great feedback from the show - David had this to say:

"Well done on am amazing evening!
It was a great show. The standard was extremely high, I thought.
Only one or two weak students and lots of strong ones.
I thought the 1st years were excellent, as usual. I also think that the red project was brilliant, in terms of pushing the students, and I was amazed with what they came up with.
The tailoring module was outstanding.
It seems that your syllabus is spot on- i think they're getting a really balanced education, and getting the chance to be creative within reason, while also focusing on commerciality quite a bit.
Really really well done. It gets better every year".

While Anne also commented:

"I just want to congratulate you on a well organised, professional show.
I thought that the ranges were very good. It was nice for us to see what transpired out of the planned ranges we saw earlier in the year".

MJ Kemp (3rd year tailoring)

1st years - "Denim Facory" project required students to design and work with denim, in the market segment 'Streetwear'. Students had much freedom in what they designed as the only requirement was to work with 80% denim and 20% cotton Lycra. This really allows the students to express their own original style.

Grethe Bredenkamp (1st year Denim Factory/Streewear)

Next came the second years' Fabric Manipulation brief.

Ereesha Davids (2nd year Fabric Manipulation - Carnivale)

This requires them to all work with the same cloth, this year red cotton twill, and to create interest by manipulating the fabric using craft, dyes, bleach and embellishment.

Heike Lauterbach (2nd year Fabric Manipulation - Carnivale)

The students were given the theme 'Carnivale' with which to design their Avant Garde outfits.

Ashley Mae Marshall (2nd year Fabric Manipulation - Carnivale)

The second level 2 brief was to design for the market segment 'Menswear'.

Kim Sassen (2nd year Menswear)

These designs relate directly to menswear trends and also had to include a soft tailored jacket.

Sarah Dreyer ( 2nd year Menswear)

Next the 3rds year got to present their Tailoring and Couture, which was made at the beginning of the year.

Stephanie Anastasoloulos (3rd year Couture)

They then presented their final end of year ranges. Well done to everyone for all their hard work.

Tina Swigelaar (3rd year Final Range)

Special mention must go to Rebecca Lowe, Samantha Bailey and Cindy Armstrong who won Outstanding Achievement Awards for their excellent work over the past 3 years.

Robyn Caris was Awarded the most Commercially Fashionable Range by Truworths

Robyn Caris (3rd year Final Range)

And last but not least Stephanie Anastasopoulos for being awarded the Design Excellence Award by the Advisory Committee on the night.

Stephanie Anastasopoulos (3rd year Final Range)

daf '09 Backstage

2009-12-01T03:59:00.000-08:00

The design Academy of Fashion held our 10th annual fashion show @ whatiftheworld art gallery in Woodstock this past Saturday night.

Here are some pics from backstage just before the show started

Make up by Mukup

Simone and Fiina

Meg

3rd year Lameez Claasen

Jody

2nd year Kim Sassen

Hair by Scar

DAF Annual Fashion Show

2009-11-12T06:06:00.000-08:00

The Design Academy of Fashion is turning 10...
Come join us @ the DAF annual fashion show in celebration of our ten year anniversary!

Sponsors include SDR Photo, L'Oreal Professional and hair & make-up by Scar Hair.

28th November 2009
8pm
208 Albert Road
2nd floor
whatiftheworld art gallery
Woodstock
021 448 9379

All tickets will be pre-sold.
No tickets will be sold at the door, so buy early to avoid disappointment!

Lingerie - 'New Innocence'

2009-10-28T01:37:00.000-07:00

“Designers show off their soft side with a look that’s tender and sweet, with sheer fabrics in delicate shades from pastel to nude. Dubbed the ‘new innocence’, this trend has more to do with sensuality than the crushed fabrics, tumbled ruffles and washed out colours may at first suggest. The subtext is PUREST SEDUCTION – not that innocent after all…”

Kim Sassen

Ashley Mae

Sarah Dreyer

Kirsten Joy

Jessica Newton

Heike Lauterbach

Design Academy of Fashion - Free Workshop for Prospective Students

2009-09-09T06:21:00.000-07:00

DAF will be holding a workshop on the ‘Introduction to Storyboards’ on Saturday 19 September from 10h00 to 13h00 for any prospective students for 2010. If you are in Grade 12 or have completed your studies and are interested in the course, please contact us by Monday 14 September 2009. You will then be given a list of stationery requirements to bring along.

Please contact Suzanne at 021 4489379 or at info@daf-academy.co.za

Graduate Shows '09

2009-08-25T04:47:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday the 3rd years took part in the Cape Town Fashion Week Graduate Shows.

Robyn Caris

All schools were asked to put forward their their top students from the 2009 graduate class.

Lameez Claasen

6 Daf students were chosen to show 3 peices of their final ranges.

Stephanie Ana

Samantha Bailey

Cindy Armstrong

Tina Swiggelaar won an CTFC award and all the students did so well and really stood out - we are so proud of all of you! Keep up all the hard work :)

DAF Open Day 01/08/2009

2009-08-05T04:06:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday DAF held our first annual Open Day. There were yummy cakes, brownies and savory snacks for sale, packaged in hand made boxes with original hand drawn stickers.

Everything had a personal touch and it was great to give both parents and friends the opportunity to see what DAF is all about. All proceeds go towards raising funds for the end of year fashion show.

For the past two terms the students and staff put aside two hours every Friday to make crafts which could be sold on open day.

Items included veld brooches, earrings, clips, greeting cards and novelty bean bag warmers.

One of the items which really did well were the DAF environmentally friendly shopping bags.

As well as items for sale, all students had an exhibition space where they got to show the best of the work they have produced while studying @ DAF

Thanks to all who attended and helped to make our first open day a success. Special thanks must go to the LRC (Learner Representative Committee) and especially to Steph and Sam for being the driving force behind motivating everyone. Till next time :)

DAF Open Day 01/08/2009

2009-07-27T00:43:00.000-07:00

The Design Academy of Fashion will be hosting an open day were the Daf students will be exhibiting their college work. There will also be craft items and yummy cakes for sale. All proceeds will go towards the end of year fashion show, so bring your friends and parents and come show your support!

Boys will be Boys/Girls will be Boys - 19/06/09

2009-06-19T01:24:00.000-07:00

Last night DAF hosted a party to raise funds for the end of year show.
The theme was 'Androgyny'

Design by: Stephanie Anastasopoulos; Model: Aadilah Toufee

Thanks to everyone who attended and came to support of the Academy

The second years showed their menswear designs from this term

Design by: Kim Sassen

The third years asked friends to model for them and showed their tailoring outfits.

Design by: lameez Claasen; Model: Carlynne Smith

Backstage (left to right): model; Tansy Tarboten, Cindy Armstrong, model, Stepahanie Anastasopoulos, Samantha Bailey

Thanks must go to Steph and Sammy, who helped organize the party and fashion show.

Final Range Planning

2009-06-12T01:52:00.000-07:00

Its that time of year and yesterday the 3rd years presented their final ranges to a panel of guest moderators from Truworths.

This included Anne;LTD, Luke; Men's Fashion Studio, Susan;ladies Fashion Studio and Julia from HR.

Claudor and Claudette by: Stephanie Anastasopoulos

The presentations went really well and the moderators were really pleased with the standard of work and at how receptive the students were to their constructive criticism.

Something Old/Something New by: Cindy Armstrong

There were lots of last minute additions and sleepless nights, but everyone rose to the challenge. Well done to all the 3rd years for all your hard work.

Beauty Uncovered by Tansy Tarboten

Summer of Love by: Abby May Richards

Requiem for a Dream by Tina Swigelaar

The Child Like Me by Lameez Claasen

We are all really looking forward to seeing the final product.... watch this space! :)

Architecture meets Tailoring

2009-06-11T05:57:00.000-07:00

This term the 3rd years completed their tailored outfits. They were asked to look at forms of architecture as inspiration to create 3 designs, one of which was chosen to be produced.

Lameez Claasen - Inca pyramids, Mexico

From catholic churches and cathedrals to pyramids built by the Inca tribes, the students pushed themselves and created some truly beautifully crafted pieces.

Robyn Caris - Sydney Opera House, Australia

Cindy Armstrong - Heian Shrines/Japan

Tina Swigelaar - Cambridge University

Stephanie Anastasopolous - Dilapidated building/Beirut.

Fund Raising and FAD awards

2009-06-11T05:24:00.001-07:00

The students and lecturers have been hard at work creating items to sell at the annual DAF open day on the 1st August '09.

From earrings, clips, brooches, bean bag warmers and shopping bags, everything made and sold is aimed at raising funds for the end of year fashion show. So spread the word and come support DAF on 1st Aug!

Next up on the DAF calandar is the FAD awards. A competition run by Fochini which aims at uncovering fresh new talent.

The theme was 'Le Dolce vita'. Quite a few DAF students entered, but it was 3rd year student Tina Swigelaar who was accepted and will be required to make up 6 garments for the final leg of the competition.

Well done Tina!

Steph Anastaopolous

Durban July '09 update

2009-06-11T04:49:00.000-07:00

1 of the 3rd year students, Stephanie Anastasopolous, made it into the Durban July semi-finals and got a special mention from the judges.

Other creations included a lego dress along with various other creations from competing colleges.

CONVERSE (PRODUCT) RED™

2009-05-26T05:24:00.000-07:00

In 2007, the 1st year students entered into an AIDS awareness competition for Converse shoes.

Two designs, done by Chloe Hugo-Hamman and Samantha Baily, were chosen to be put into production.

10% of the net wholesale price of these CONVERSE (PRODUCT) RED™ will be paid to The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (Geneva, Switzerland).

Go to http://www.converse.com/#/products/shoes/red to check them out!

Well done Sam and Chloe :)

The Games We Play 06/05/09

2009-05-06T00:33:00.001-07:00

This year the Durban July Competition called on young designers to come up with an outfit with theme "The Games We Play".

Stephanie Anastasopoulos: "Inspired by a geometric, six sided cube shape which represents a dice, a common game accessory, which in turn represents the game of chance. The dilapidated look of the garment has reference to the great depression and the idea that people had to keep all their possessions and items of worth on their physical selves. The plain dyed cotton is further inspired by this significant era."

Steph was accepted for the second consecutive year - well done Steph!!

Hieke Lauterbach: "Twister was the inspiration behind my design. As the game unfolds and bodies are intertwined, to represent this the dress is pleated creating depth and layers. The pleated chiffon skirt is twisted around the model's midriff - My design folds over itself creating 3 layers with 3 different opacity's, creating movement and a feeling of depth."

Samantha Baily: "I took inspiration from the game 'peek-a-boo', where you hide and they appear! I used this surprise element to hide my naughty design underneath a structured 18Th Century design. This design was inspired by the Queen of Hearts and was combined with the 'geometry by design' trend. The idea being a deck of tricks hidden just below the surface - should surely make you want to play again?"

Robyn Caris: "I didn't want to interpret the theme literally and thought about the connotations the theme brought to mind. I thought of a casino type of vibe, with high rollers, beautiful women and all the games that get played; mentally and physically. I wanted to portray a sexy silhouette and incorporated a couple current trends. A modern, sexy take on the little black dress."

Kim Sassen: "When I thought about the 'games people play' I automatically thought of my favorite board game as a child - Snakes and Ladders! It is a game of chance. At times there is not a lot that you can do in order to win - your fate is left in the hands of the dice. I chose very royal colours, this makes a bold statement. I tried to emphasise the feeling of it being intertwined and flowing from one side to the other."

Term Two 04/05/2009

2009-05-04T03:20:00.000-07:00

The year seems to be flying and we are already 2 weeks into the 2nd term!
Last term the 1st years completed their first design project.

Their task was to design a skirt for Spring/Summer '09;looking at current trends in colour, fabric and shape.
Erica Sauzier; moodboard and storyboard.

They first had to create a moodboard based on these trends and themes and from this they created 3 skirt designs in simple storyboard format.

The project was challenging, but the standard was very high and the 1st years were clearly up to the challenge!

Petrie Morton; moodboard and storyboard

The 2nd years ended last term with the full-scale production of an outfit designed for a film of their choice, as part of Costume Studies.

They had to design for a specific scene and character in the film and the garment had to look as if it would fit seamlessly into the aesthetic of the film.

Kim Sassen ;The Notebook; beach scene; Allie Hamilton (Rachel McAdams)

The students really went all out and produced some beautiful, original outfits.

Sarah Dreyer; My Fair Lady; ball scene; Eliza Doolittle (Audrey Hepburn)

Kirsten Chancellor Maddison; Grease; End dance scene; Sandy Olsson (Olivia Newton-John)

Hieke Lauterbach;Memoirs of a Geisha; Garden scene; Sayuri (Ziyi Zhang)

Last term also saw the completion of the 3rd years couture garments. They are currently working on their tailoring garments...photo's to follow soon!

Stephanie Anastasopolous -Inspired by Scotland

Cindy Armstrong - Inspired by India

Abbi-may Richards - Inspired by the Victorian Era

M.J Kemp - Inspired by Italy/'Le Dolce Vita'

Entering into term 2, the 2nd year students have been busy conceptualizing their men's wear/soft tailoring ranges for the end of year fashion show.

As most of the students were new to designing for men, they were required to first create 5 moodboards. These included a customer profile (looking at lifestyle); key items, mood and colour; graphic and accessories.

Sarah Dreyer - Geek Ch!c

Out of the 3 outfits designed, one will be chosen to be made up for the fashion show

Kim Sassen - Military V.s. Biker

Zoe Barnardo - Street Warrior

Ashley-mae Marshall - The New Casual

DAF has created the 'Outreach Programme', which aims at getting the students involved in helping those less fortunate than themselves. This year we are proud to be associated with the Gladys School of Dance.

The second years were given the task of designing Latin dance dresses for the couples. 5 designs were chosen and the students will be making up the girls' Latin dance dresses for an up coming competition.

2009-03-23T05:52:00.000-07:00

Couture Culture /20:03:2009

DAF hosted a dress up party at Bang Bang Club Last Friday to raise funds for the annual fashion show.

The 3rd years got their friends to model and had a fashion show.

The theme was based on the 3rd year brief for their couture ranges - different cultures from around the world.

Greece, Scotland, India and Tibet were just some of the sources of inspiration

Thanx have to go to Tania Burman for Organising :)

1st years Hannah, Claire, Ilse, Pietrie, Grethe and Kylie

Bianca and Luke Fobian

Until next time :)

Fashion 101 - The Year Begins

2009-02-16T05:09:00.000-08:00

So, we are three weeks into the 1st term and everyone is hard at work. The current 1st years are settling in really well. So far they have started learning basic fashion drawing, illustration, pattern making and garment construction techniques. Soon they will be starting their first main brief, which includes the design, drafting and construction of a skirt. However, they are first coached to master the skills required to execute this project with ease. So the past weeks have been filled with many lectures, demonstrations and class exercises. They have certainly risen to the challenge.

All the academic staff at DAF are all really excited to welcome all the new students as it seems we have some fresh new talent, which is always wonderful.

Passion, hard work and fun are essential and the first year students seem to possess all these capabilities!
Even at this early stage of the game one can see the beginnings of great designers. This current 1st year class is constantly keeping us all on our toes - they are enthusiastic, fun and inquisitive. This type of attitude is always welcomed as it encourages an atmosphere of open communication and flow of ideas and creativity.

The current 2nd years are equally as impressive. Second year is always tough as it requires a large jump in workload, standard and individual learning responsibilities.

They have started conceptualizing their ranges for their main brief 'Active Sports', in which they are all required to choose a sport/active lifestyle and design a 3 piece range.

From 80's electro dance to tennis, hip hop, ballet and running - the students show their versatility and individuality through their initial moodboards. They are currently working on the final designs and I will be up loading pictures of the garments as soon as they are completed.

(Kim Sassaen - 80's electro dance)

Another course currently running is costume studies. the second years are in their final module which requires them to choose a film set after 1900 and research this historical era to create one design for full-scale manufacture.
Photo's to follow soon...

Sarah Dreyer - My Fair Lady, 1960

Hieke Lauterbach - Memoirs of a Geisha, 1920's-30's

Kim Sassen - The Notebook, 1940's

And last, but certainly not least - the current third years are hard at work on their couture ranges.

This years third year students are dedicated and talented.

By this stage students have completed most of the 3 year course theory subjects, leaving more time to concentrate on their end of year ranges for the DAF fashion show.
At the beginning of the term Rene, our garment construction lecturer, shows the students basic couture construction techniques such as corsetry, rouging, working with lace, fabric manipulation, beading, etc. Thus enabling the students to incorporate these techniques into their own designs.
The brief outline requires them to choose a culture or historical era as a source of inspiration for their couture designs. They are currently conceptualizing their ranges according to the brief.

I look forward to sharing their hard work with you all.

As always, watch this space!

Headspace

2009-01-21T23:58:00.000-08:00

For the last 2 years the Academy has, in line with the institutions policy to support the education and training of their staff, supported me in the attainment of my Degree in Design. I began my studies in 2007 at Cape Peninsula University of Technology.

Needless to say it was a stressful two years as I studied and worked. The years were full of late nights and stressful deadlines, culminating in my very first Installation.

I pushed myself beyond anything I had ever done before - knowing that these kind of opportunities, where I would get to express myself so creatively, were few and far between.

I spent 2007 agonising over what my thesis would entail and went from one idea to the next almost on a daily basis. Ironically it was my love for teaching the history of fashion which led me to settle on my final concept.

The idea behind the designs revolved around the concept of androgyny. The designs were inspired by men's wear from the16th-19th Centuries. I was inspired by the 21st century woman and the blurring of gender boundaries that exists in today's society.

The whole process was extremely organic for me - i found it very difficult when my lecturers would ask to see the entire range from start to finish. I would be working on one design and only once it truly took on its form could I begin to conceptualize the next garment in the sequence of designs.

I experimented with fabric manipulation methods & incorporated what I call a 'diamond tuck' technique into each garment. This was a time consuming & monotonous process. At times I thought I was crazy for even attempting it. The first garment I made was a waistcoat, inspired by the 16th C male doublet, it took me about 40 hours of hand work to complete. I then wondered what I had gotten myself into after my lecturer encouraged me to incorporate it into every garment!

The range is built around contradicting concepts of masculine/feminine, hard/soft fabrics, dark/light colours, fitted/loose, constrictive/comfortable and hand vs. machine construction.

The garments are made up of a mixture of wool and hemp suiting (representing the masculine) and silk (representing the feminine).

The evident grey colour represents the 'blurring' of gender boundaries in the 21st century.

It was difficult to juggle being a student and teaching (not to mention somewhat ironic), but with the help of all the staff at the Academy, I was able to successfully complete my 2 years of study and pass my practical component with distinction. I wish to thank Bianca, Tania, Rene, Irene & Suzanne for all your patience and encouragement through a very challenging time. All their support is testament to the spirit of individual commitment, caring, quality education and training that DAF values above all.

2008 in perspective

2009-01-21T03:10:00.000-08:00

As we enter a new academic year, I thought it would only be fitting to first reflect on 2008 and all the amazing accomplishments the students at DAF have achieved.

In the first half of the year the 2nd and 3rd year students took part in the Durban July competition. 3 students, Robyn Caris, Stephanie Anastasopoulos and Pheona Kigozi all made it through to the Regional Finals. With Stephanie winning this leg of the competition. Congratulations Steph!

The 2nd years took part in the academy's Outreach Programme, in which they designed and made up ballroom dance dresses for the Gladys School of Dance, for a ballroom dance competition.

One of our 1st year students, Nikita Coleman, won a competition in which she got to style South African Hip Hop artist HHP for one of his upcomming music videos.

The students then took part in the DAF '08 fashion show, which was a great success. With the launch of the Cape Town Fashion Council's 'Graduate Shows', the Academy participated, along with CPUT & CTCF,in a joint fashion show created to showcase graduating students from all around Cape Town. This event provides a platform for young designers and exposure to the industry. It also encourages a spirit of healthy competition amongst the students from the different institutions.

3rd year student, Margot Molyneux, was awarded a prize from the Cape Town Fashion Council and was offered the opportunity to enter into their Competitaveness Programme.

Simone Wrankmore, another 3rd year student, was offered a place in S.A Fashion Week and Truworths awarded Simone with a prize for the most commercially viable range.

The fashion show was on African Couture on SABC3 and 3rd year student Jennifer Stevens and lecturer Irene Grasser were interviewed along with other designers from the various colleges.

The academy awarded both Simone Wrankmore and Roxanne Anderson with awards for outstanding achievement as both passed the 3 year course with distinction.

Well done to everyone who worked so hard.

As we enter 2009 we look forward to another exciting year ahead!

Watch this space...