What was the inspiration behind Anele’s dress?
It all started with the silhouette of the dress. I’ve worked with Anele for a long time now, and she wanted to do a plunging neckline as we’d never done that before. I looked for a fabric that was bold and striking, that would make Anele stand out on the red carpet. I found two amazing pieces at Mintys Fabric in Durban that we both fell in love with. I immediately knew that we had a winner!
I loved the movement of the ostrich feathers that was on the fabric and wanted to continue this with a more dramatic effect at the top of the dress and sleeves. I added hundreds of beaded strands, and must give a massive shout-out to my grandmother who helped put them together.
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How long did it take you to make it?
I literally had five days! Anele asked me on January 29 — I bought the fabric two days later and had the first fitting on 1 February. The second fitting was two days later and the dress was delivered on 5 February.
Take us through the making of the dress.
I had the advantage of knowing her body shape and had patterns ready. Once the first fitting was done and it was perfect, I started sewing the dress in the actual fabric, ahead of the second fitting. I then added the zip, finished the hem and hand-sewed the beaded appliqué motives on the top and sleeves of the dress. My grandmother and I then got stuck in on the hand-beaded strands to add the finishing touch.
Who is Juan William Aria?
After completing my B.A. degree at LISOF in 2009, I established my business in 2010. I specialise in bridal, evening and special-occasion wear. Our studio is in Little Falls, Roodepoort, and I’m 31 years young!
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Why did you choose fashion designing as a career?
My uncle Gideon is a fashion designer and my biggest inspiration. I remember attending his fashion shows from the age of nine, and knowing that I would follow in his footsteps one day.
