Designer’s colourful African prints a hit at Durban July

Mpilonhle Gumede was born and bred on the dusty streets of Mtunzini to become one of the most respected fashion designers in the province. His eye-catching “out of this world” mixed African prints design turned many heads at the Hollywood Bets Durban July this year.

Mr Gumede, 28, a self-taught fashion designer and creative art director, is now based in Musgrave, Durban. He owns a fashion brand, Gog Geni Fashion House - named after his grandmother. He plans to take his brand to an international audience. His designs were all the buzz at the Durban July. The theme this year was “out of this world” and the first thing that came to Mr Gumede’s mind was the Milky Way. His designs were placed in the top 10 of the category for women’s Classic Racewear at the event. It was also the first time he showed his designs at the Durban July.

“In my research I discovered the Milky Way has over 100 000 shining stars, it’s dusty and has a black hole. I knew I wanted to reflect the Milky Way inspiration to my African experiences of diverse cultures and heritage,” he said.

“My collection, The Lane of Elegance, used mixed prints to represent African people from all walks of life. The message is to unite Africa and together we stand firm and work constructively. My designs will always carry a message and make an impact on someone’s life,” said Mr Gumede.

Mr Gumede’s late grandmother, Gog Geni, was a very handy woman and it was her who inspired the trails of entrepreneurship and craft work in him. Fashion has always been in and around him from a young age, he said, and he always had a keen sense of style – knowing exactly what he wanted to wear. He said sometimes he would rip apart old clothes and give them a new style.

“My career has been a long journey for me, because I didn't have professional training. I have lost so many opportunities and I often must prove myself to be considered.

“I have been in the industry for seven years and I can tell you this industry changes every day. You must constantly be on your toes to deliver the latest trends and most of all not lose yourself in the process,” said Mr Gumede.

He added that he is a creative artist first and then a designer. He can use almost anything to create art pieces and is inspired by different cultures, languages and races.