Inspired by Italian fashion heavyweight John Galliano, Siyethemba Ngwenya is setting trends with Ceeye’s Fashion Studio (CFS).
“I draw inspiration from structures and shapes, as well as the use of colour around the globe,” says the mild-mannered 26 year old. “I like the way Galliano interprets structures and cuts in his surroundings – I think we share the same flair.”
CFS started operating in 2004 and is headed by Ngwenya, a designer by profession. Following the completion of his fashion design diploma at the Durban University of Technology in the 2006, he has achieved a great deal, including a number of top fashion accolades, while a student and as a fully-fledged designer.
He won the award for top student designer at university. He participated in the SME fashion shows from 2007 – 2009, which has managed to create a good client base for the business.
Ngwenya undertakes exclusive commissions for private clients, but has proven his diversity in his new line, SCS, opting for a variety of looks that appeal to all.
“I am Zulu and, traditionally, clothes were created as a means of covering up and not for fashion per se.” Ngwenya says he started CFS to denounce that notion.
“When I was 13 years old, I assisted a group of ladies in Umlazi. It was commissioned by the KZN government.” He says the experience taught him an important lesson about fashion.
“Clothing is not just about sewing; it’s more than that and I’m here to master it,” says Ngwenya, who named his label a variation of his own name, Siye, “for commercial purposes”.
Born in Hammarsdale, KwaZulu-Natal, Ngwenya is now based in Durban, where he first opened the doors of his studio in the city’s CBD in 2004, catering for an upwardly mobile black economic empowerment market.
The KZN Fashion Council made its debut at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Jo’burg this week. In a spectacular showpiece, Ngwenya’s CFS line stood out as the only menswear line. The collection featured distressed denim, graphic prints and tailored coats and blazers – practical fashion for the urban male.
“I am the only male designer from KwaZulu-Natal, so that helps in terms of competition,” he laughs.
Ngwenya believes that slim-fit pants and a dropped crotch, providing a baggy look, tapered at the bottom, is a signature Galliano look – a regular feature in his edgy menswear line. Matte fabrics include lanvins, meltons and cottons, while heavyweight denims are specifically washed to provide the right effect.
“I am blessed to have a great team in my studio that shares my vision of seeing Africa rise up in the fashion stakes,” says the designer. “South African fashion needs a boost, as the Chinese are infiltrating the market with cheaper versions of fashionable clothing.”
CFS employs a dynamic team that Ngwenya says he could not survive without. “This is not a one-man show,” he says. He also attributes making it and staying in the industry to building good relationship with his clients. “Good clients are loyal and people will always come back if you treat them like they are your first and only priority.”
From basic drawings, to sketches transformed into catwalk-ready masterpieces, Ngwenya has grown in leaps and bounds and showcasing his creations at Jo’burg’s biggest fashion parade is only the first taste of what’s to come. “I have launched Ceeye’s Institute of Fashion in Durban as an extension of my business,” says the entrepreneur.
– The New Age (view original page http://www.thenewage.co.za/46263-1041-53-Trendsetter_uncovered )
