Fashion Week slated for June

OTLARONGWA KGWEETSI | Friday May 24, 2024 12:21

After failing to take place in February this year, the Fashion Week event will finally take place on June 1 at Cresta Lodge in Gaborone. The highly anticipated event, which is the brainchild of Starlight Studio, in partnership with Duma FM and Fashion Design and Creative Arts, will be held under the theme, ‘Fashion Week of All Nations, Afrique Collections.’ This event aims to showcase and enhance the creativity of young designers in Botswana’s fashion industry. The event founder and organiser, Daisy Tlhaloganyang, said designers will display their products for public view and fashion show. Tlhaloganyang said the primary objective of the Fashion Week Show is to boost Botswana’s economic diversification by empowering the youth through fashion, culture and clothing manufacturing. 'By providing a platform for young designers from TVET institutions and fashion design entrepreneurs, the event aims to enhance creativity and talent in Botswana’s fashion industry. Another crucial goal of the Fashion Week event is to fuel a mindset change regarding fashion and clothing manufacturing in Botswana. By showcasing the innovative designs and craftsmanship of local designers, we aim to challenge the perception that fashion is merely a hobby or a secondary industry. Instead, we want to highlight its potential as a significant contributor to Botswana’s economy,' Tlhaloganyang said. “Through fashion design, the event seeks to promote the arts, culture, and design, as well as celebrate African cultures. Designers participating in the event are expected to showcase their creativity by incorporating traditional attires such as makgabe, tshega, phaeyana, and two outfits inspired by any African country or culture. This unique blend of traditional and contemporary designs will serve as a testament to the richness and diversity of African fashion,' she added. Furthermore, Tlhaloganyang said the aim is to reach out to all parts of Botswana and beyond its borders, offering a platform for young fashion designers and models. She indicated that by involving international judges from South Africa, who possess extensive knowledge of global fashion trends, they want to provide valuable exposure and networking opportunities for local talents. Additionally, she highlighted that Starlight Studio’s Fashion Week of All Nations is a significant event that celebrates creativity, empowers Botswana’s youth, and promotes the country’s fashion industry. She said they hope the event changes the mindsets and highlight the economic potential of the fashion and clothing manufacturing sector.