Publications
Partners
Rising star clothing designer Sello Medupe recently received an amazing opportunity to showcase his designs in the fashion capital of the world.
Medupe brought his label Scalo to the north Italian town of Turin for Torino Fashion Week.
“It was actually my first international show,” he told #Trending. “I was selected from many applicants after submitting my portfolio.”
Medupe was one of about 23 South African fashion gurus who showed their latest traditional styles of garments.
The city of Turin is known to be a pit stop for those who work in the industry, from beginners to emerging fashion designers.
Scalo and designers, such as Nina Sedumedi and Sun Goddess, were given this opportunity thanks to a collaboration between Torino Fashion Week, the Small Enterprise Development Agency and the trade and industry department to uplift small enterprises with the potential for growth in export markets.
“My collection was made up of 20 proudly South African cultural looks, inspired by a strong woman who knows what she wants from life.”
To illustrate this, Medupe chose designs inspired by the bold colours of the Ndebele tribe, and the structured shapes and textile lines of Xhosa culture.
“It was also a tribute to Mama Miriam Makeba,” he said. “I love all my pieces – they all tell my story from beginning to end.”
Our local talent showcased during two nights that were dedicated to Africa. Medupe said the response to his designs was overwhelming.
“I was selected to close the show on one of the days and, at the end, I had people talking from the producers to photographers, models and spectators. Some people came backstage clapping and congratulating me. I also received good reviews from the media and interest from buyers.”
Medupe said the opportunity would enable him to focus on shifting the Scalo brand to an international target market.
“I’m also looking into collaborating with a few brands and probably another international showcase.”
- Visit @scalodesigner on Instagram or scalodesigner.com for more
