The Graduate Fashion Event 2012

The Protea Hotel Stellenbosch was once again the venue for Elizabeth Galloway Academy of Fashion Design’s much anticipated Graduate Show.

The prestigious event, held on the 20^th of June 2012, comprised of three separate shows. The 1^st and 2^nd year show at 15:00 and the final year students exhibiting their self-expression ranges in two groups, at 18:00 and 20:00.

A new and highly successful innovation this year was the 15:00 show, featuring selected ensembles from the first and second years’ work. This afforded the younger students valuable experience in the dynamics and pressures of the catwalk.

The 1st years exhibited fashion-forward skirts and shorts with a colour blocking theme, which was interpreted with striking variety. The garments were styled trendily as well as tastefully – an achievement in itself! Non-European, the label founded by Elizabeth Galloway alumna Tarien Malherbe, kindly provided some of the tops.

Following this, the 2^nd year students revealed their entries for the SA Fashion Week Student Competition, to a totally awe-struck audience. The theme Transformation requires the garment to be convertible to something different, e.g. a dress that becomes a skirt.

The creativity of the designs had people audibly catching their breath, and if the reaction is anything to go by, Elizabeth Galloway students will do well!

The Graduate Class of 2012 showed their self-expression ranges in two groups; one at 18:00 and the other at 20:00. As students are free to follow their own inspiration and interpret it in their individual ways, this makes for a wonderfully diverse exhibition.

There were fun-outfits, sophisticated garments, lingerie, swimwear, streetwear and occasion wear. We saw the use of all sorts of fabric, from light-as-air chiffon and lace, through knits and cottons, to leather. Themes were as varied: androgynous, ethnic, nomadic, military and vintage inspirations were all evident. It was virtually impossible to decide on a favourite, so spoilt was one for choice.

In the end though, the award for Best Commercial Range went to Megan Viljoen, awarded by Truworths.

The Best Range was awarded Bonita Groenewald, selected by key industry representatives; Gabi Rosenwerth from Rosenwerth, Elaine du Plessis from Christpher Strong and Malibongwe Tyilo renowned fashion commentator from Skattie What Are You Wearing.