Durban - Durban-born fashion designer Gavin Rajah scooped the 2013 South African Tourism Designer of the Year award presented at the Mercedes Benz Africa Fashion Week recently.
Known for his ultra-glamorous collections that have inspired a loyal following locally and internationally, Rajah is a regular feature at prestigious fashion weeks, such as those in New York and Paris. He wins an all-expenses-paid chance to showcase at an international fashion event of his choice.
Thulani Nzima, chief executive of South African Tourism, said: “Gavin’s exquisite designs will help us bring to the fore the creative talent that we have in South Africa, thus positioning the delights of our country beyond wildlife and safari.
“We chose him for his role as a strong champion of South African design. He’s established himself as an entrepreneur in the world of fashion and has been instrumental in profiling South African designs. His work has helped establish South Africa globally as a fantastic lifestyle, culture and heritage destination.”
For the first time, the Gavin Rajah signature look will be available in a ready-to-wear collection for the mainstream market. The designer has partnered with LEGIT to design a summer collection, which will be in stores later this month.
Nicolas Maweni, spokesman for Africa Fashion International, said: “One of our main objectives is to work with designers who not only show a uniquely creative flair, but are able to develop viable businesses.”
Rajah said he was humbled by the award: “This is a great honour, one that is also humbling considering the plethora of talent in South Africa. I am grateful to South African Tourism for the accolade and the opportunity to showcase authentic South African designs in far-afield markets. Many thanks to my team who continue to fuel my passion for couture; most importantly though, my sincerest gratitude goes to the women that continue to wear my brand.” - The Mercury