It may 2010 was all about embracing the female form — choosing to flaunt those curves as well as mixing and matching colours. The Mail & Guardian‘s Karabo Keepile looks back on the year that was and takes stock of her favourite designers, fashion and accessories.
Maatano
Somali-American twins Ayaan and Idyl Mohallim are the brains and creative geniuses behind female fashion label Mataano, which means twins in their native Somali language.
The fashion label established in 2008 brings together Somali and New York-inspired designs made for the modern fashion conscious woman.
Mataano was invited to debut their Spring/Summer 2011 collection during Africa Fashion Week in Johannesburg on June 30, where they received rave reviews. This body-hugging boob-tube matched with beige wide-legged pants look was a personal favourite and achieved the classy-sophisticated look of 2010.
Stoned Cherrie
Stoned Cherrie may have pulled out of this year’s Africa Fashion Week, but the South African label was back with full force and lots of colour at the 2010 Cape Town Fashion Week. Stoned Cherrie’s Love Movement collection was eye-catching with blends of bright colours, beads and designs worked upon the models’ skin. It was the peacock dress however that had everyone agreeing that Stoned Cherrie was still a firm favourite on the local fashion scene.
Viyella
Understated elegance, sophisticated designs and immaculate tailoring are the key words when it comes to designer label Viyella. This year’s South Africa collection presented masculine tailored suits in light, airy colours. Shirts and long trousers made of linen dominated the runway, as did man bags.
Stefania Morland
Stefania Morland’s beige spring/summer collection, while muted, was another favourite this year. Her neutral silk chiffon flowy top paired with mist high waist linen shorts was symbolic of the Spring/Summer trends of 2010.
Wedges
Just when we thought wedges were gone and forgotten they made a comeback in 2010. If, like me, you can’t walk in heels to save your life this was a welcomed return plus a chance to comfortably raise your height, in something like these white Marc Jacobs wedges.
View more highlights of the year that was in our special report here: