The highlight of this year's AFS show was the Young Designer Competition, sponsored by ENS, shines a spotlight on the next generation of fashion talent. Their designs were imaginative, original and all-around masterpieces! We are thrilled to announce that Serena Balram is the 2024 Young Designer winner! Her exceptional creativity and innovative approach set her apart from the competition, and we look forward to seeing her continued impact on the fashion world. Serena walks away with a prize value of R270 000. The runner up was Cyla Gonsolves who won R5000 in cash. Shout-out to all the talented participants for making this competition an unforgettable journey into the future of fashion.
View some of the incredible submissions of the contestants who participated in #YDC24
Cyla Gonsolves
Lize Vermeulen
Kuhle Phumzile Zondo
Mothusi Leballo
Logan Marlon
Shaquille Smit
Serena Balram
Gerrard Ngobeni
Kayakazi Magadlelana
The Allfashion Sourcing Young Designer Competition,
now in its seventh year. The competition offers young designers an opportunity to showcase their skillset through their interpretation of a design brief – put together by Cyril Naicker.
EMBRACING SUSTAINABILITY THROUGH THE AFRICAN LENS
Design Brief
OVERVIEW
In a world where global trends often lead South Africans to seek inspiration from European influences, this design brief encourages fashion design students to transcend the boundaries of imitation and delve into the vast realm of creativity Through the Lens of Africa. The challenge is to create a sustainable fashion collection that not only celebrates the rich heritage of local craftsmanship but also fosters a commitment to the environment, emphasizing the use of eco-friendly fabrics.
KEY THEMES
1. Cultural Preservation:
Explore the vibrant tapestry of sustainability by intertwining cultural preservation with contemporary fashion design. Showcase how traditional elements can seamlessly coexist with modern aesthetics.
2. Biodiversity Celebration:
Reflect the diverse and bountiful African landscapes in your design. Draw inspiration from local food sources and biodiversity to create a collection that not only looks visually appealing but also symbolizes the importance of preserving the planet's natural resources.
3. Eco-Friendly Fabrics:
Prioritize the use of eco-friendly fabrics in your collection. Dive into the world of sustainable materials that align with ethical and environmental considerations, showcasing how fashion can be both stylish and planet friendly.
4. Craftsmanship Showcase:
Highlight the significance of local craftsmanship in your designs. Let each piece tell a story of skilled artisans, traditional techniques, and the timeless beauty embedded in African craftsmanship.
5. Leather in an African Context:
Explore the use of leather within the context of African culture. Showcase its significance while considering sustainable practices and ethical sourcing, ensuring that the collection respects the environment and aligns with the values of cultural integrity.
6. Flora Fusion:
Immerse in the rich biodiversity of South Africa's rich foliage, blending indigenous plants and vibrant greenery into contemporary fashion designs, highlighting the harmony between nature and style.
ENTRY ELEMENT 1 :
Mood Board
Provide us with a mood board that defines you as an African Designer.
Judging criteria: Points allocated in their visual interpretation.
ENTRY ELEMENT 2 :
Illustration & Technical Drawing
A4 Garment drawing front and back of your garment. Your look can be suited for men/women/non-binary. Remember to include all design detail as well as all trims used and how you sourced these trims.
Keep in mind once again, designing towards a slower future.
Judging criteria: are any trims and design detail used that don’t comply with slow fashion?