The fashion monarchy in New York, let alone internationally, is a tough one to work in but there is one South African fashion designer reigning locally and globally.
With imperial authority, David Tlale floods the runways of New York and Johannesburg with rich cultural designs. The royal influence of his designs, left to run through the veins of media, and breathe life into platforms such as Vogue, Elle, and Cosmopolitan (South Africa).
Tlale, is never afraid to present a regal showcase of embroidered skirts, pants, and tops from various cultures ranging from African, American, Asian and Indian to Middle Eastern. However, Tlale wears many other crowns, other than his Fashion crown and because of this, we give him the scepter to rule over the luxury African fashion scene. Below are 5 reasons why we believe so:
1. Being Inspired
“Being inspired is one thing. But what your inspiration is rooted in will keep your vision from expiring. ” – AD
Nelson Mandela inspires Tlale to look to the future. A quote given to PaperCutMagazine online, “I have respect and also admiration for our late president Nelson Mandela because he was born in [a small village] and became a global icon. For me, as a young South African, it is possible to follow in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela and become another icon [to represent South Africa] to the world. I believe our product, our brand, and our country have a great story to tell. “
Not to mention, Tlale hosted a show on the Nelson Mandela Bridge during Joburg Fashion Week 2011. The collection celebrated Nelson Mandela´s 92 years of life as it consisted of 92 pieces showcased by celebrities, models, sports men and women, as well as business people that all together make South Africa beautiful.
2. Sharing Knowledge and Being a Mentor
“Through experience you acquire knowledge, through growth, you share it.” – AD
Joining the United Nations Foundation and Adiat Disu & Associates’ mission of building global partnerships and developing emerging entrepreneurs, Tlale shared his experience and a few tips with emerging talent and globally-minded entrepreneurs at the Africa Fashion Week master class “Off The Runway.”
3. Being Recognizable
“Letting your work be audible and honorable.” – AD
David Tlale will be honoured at the fourth annual African Diaspora Awards for his contribution to the advancement of Africa– joining the likes of Grammy Award-winning singer Angelique Kidjo and Ethiopian supermodel Liya Kebede, who have been honoured at the prestigious event in the past. Hosted by Applause Africa the 2014 African Diaspora Awards will be held at the Gerald Lynch Theater (524 W. 29th Street between 10th & 11th Ave) in New York City on Saturday, November 15, 2014. The African Diaspora Awards will bring together an extraordinary array of people including musicians, artists, actors, entrepreneurs, businesses and other exemplary African’s of the Diaspora and their friends. This event has become the “Who’s Who” of meaningful and powerful leadership in the Diaspora. More than 500 attendees will join Applause as they celebrate and honor their champions.
4. Giving Back
“Give back, not because it is good. But because it is necessary.” – AD
The designer is also known for his work with the United Colors of Fashion’s (UCOF) mentoring program for emerging designers. Tlale has been a supporter of UCOF since its inception, and 24 interns from the organization were able to apply what they have learned from the free fashion education program while working on his show. With Jan Malan and Karen Lee as show producer and casting director respectively, the show displayed diversity in a way that is not typical of fashion week shows.
5. Partnering
“Attract ambassadors and partners for your VISION. It makes it easier for everyone else to SEE it.” – AD
David Tlale partnered with Motions, marking Motion’s first appearance in a New York Fashion Week show. Global Ambassador for Motions South-Africa, Ursula Stephen ensured that each model’s crown was inspired by African heritage.
Also check out David Tlale’s recent showcasing from Mercedes Ben Fashion Week Africa.
- Simon Deiner/SDR Photography
Adiree Company is a media, marketing, and marketplace group reaching multicultural consumers. Every month, readers turn to content by Adiree — for impactful conversation, our marketing and it’s marketplace to engage with meaningful products. Focusing on everything from culture, lifestyle to careers, Adiree Company leverages the power of diversity and heritage to engage and empower. Adiree Company was founded in 2009 and is headquartered in New York City, with offices in Lagos Nigeria.