From Johannesburg’s Nelson Mandela Bridge to the streets of New York City, David Tlale has never been one to to take the easy route down the catwalk.
On Thursday, the incomparable designer will be showcasing at Melrose Arch in the City of Gold in a feat that promises to elevate the standards set at his previous shows.
Titled Veteran’s Pursuit, the collection is inspired by Victorian-era clothing, particularly that worn by the military. Structured garments are uplifted with Tlale’s signature prints, which include inspiration from Basotho blankets and the big five.
“We are looking back at our journey as a brand, from our signature pieces to our garment and pattern engineering,” said Tlale.
“Because of the pandemic, people are feeling very vulnerable, so you have to honour yourself with beauty. You have to armour yourself with beautifully made garments,” said the designer.
In keeping with the theme, a parking lot at Melrose Arch will be transformed into a jungle in a collaboration with City Parks Johannesburg.
“It’s a feel-good show. I want to tell people a feel-good story,” said Tlale.
The autumn/winter collection sees him working with his network of collaborators, including Boschendal, Avon, Proudly SA and Black Motion.
In a nod to the opportunities that have made the show possible, Tlale will showcase the winners of his #CastMeDavidTlale search, so the cast of models is sure to be diverse.
The South African fashion, design and textile industry has always been formidable and with this showcase Tlale is looking to tap into a large value chain of opportunities that proves how much more investment is needed in the South African design industry.
“If I have a thousand people working here it means a thousand people are benefiting from this,” he said.
The David Tlale Veteran’s Pursuit collection will also stream live on Instagram @DavidTlale and on his YouTube page.
