Jacqui Emmanuel, a former DUT Fashion and Textiles student who completed her studies in 2007, is taking the fashion industry by storm.

The emerging designer who owns JSE Couture was selected to represent South Africa (SA) at the Africa Fashion Reception for World Fashion Week which was held in Paris, France at the beginning of this month (July 2013). A high-profile fashion spectacle, the Africa Fashion Reception featured only 16 collections by designers from 16 African countries. These designers were selected through competitions which were held in all featured countries.

Emmanuel believes that it was through the grace of God, hard work and determination that she won this trip. She said the experience abroad was both enriching and fruitful. Amongst the highlights, she counted being able to represent her country, grasping crucial elements of the international fashion industry and meeting international buyers and boutiques who were interested in buying her collections.

She said, “I have a new found love for Europe but my plan is to take SA fashion to new levels in Paris. Let’s show them why we are the most diverse country ever.”

Emmanuel is steadily building an empire with seasonal collections of elegant, custom-made and authentic designs. She lives by the motto, “step into a world where your fashion fantasy becomes your reality”. She translates this notion into her JSE Couture designs, thus validating the brand’s slogan, from catwalk to your closet.

In the next few months, Emmanuel will be travelling in and out of the country to showcase her work in major fashion shows, namely Africa Fashion Week in London, the Durban Fashion Fair and New York fashion Week. Upon her return, she will then prepare for SA Fashion Week.

Not a stranger to victory, the designer has won many competitions before. But of all her accolades, she regards her award for the Best Casual Wear at the 2007 Annual DUT Fashion Show as her best.

But even with her accomplishments, Emmanuel remains grounded and modest. To her, success isn’t just about winning but knowing that one did his or her best to reach his or her destination.

To other up-and-coming designers Emmanuel said prayer and tenacity are essential. She also urged them to register with the KZN Fashion Council as it has been instrumental in her development. Lastly, she said setting short and long-term goals as well as conducting thorough research prior to starting a collection can be fruitful.

The designer will launch her new label, under her name, at the Durban Fashion Fair.

– Mbali Madlala

Pic 1

Jacqui Emmanuel, a former DUT Fashion and Textiles student and emerging designer, who recently showed at the Africa Fashion Reception for World Fashion Week in Paris, France.

Pic 2

One of the JSE Couture designs featured at the Africa Fashion Reception.

Photography by Navlee Photography and Francois Lollichon