What’s In This Spring?

Spring has always been the starting point of new fashion. It sets the tone for what the rest of the year will look like, fashion-wise. Seeing as Namibia has yet to establish a fashion calendar, we can expect most trends to be influenced by the northern hemisphere, from looks that showcased from September last year to March 2016.

So if you’re keen to get a head start on this season’s trends, take a look back at what hit the runways both internationally and locally. From most trend reports, one can conclude that the mood for the upcoming season is ‘romantic’ which means it is out with minimalism and in with a more eccentric era. Top trends include pajama dressing, the intense stripe trend, the cold shoulder-off the shoulder, the fringed hem, nautical details, modern ruffles and bold, brash orange.

Do Namibian designers agree?

Always looking ahead, Taati Sibolile, who just showcased her pre-spring 2017 collection, feels there is no point in focusing on last spring’s fashion as she’s already enamoured with winter inspiration and colours.

“If you are referring to last season some of the popular looks were bare shoulders, Spanish flounces, lace and sheer which you can expect to see in store this spring.”

So how exactly are designers going to spruce up spring fashion this year?

Melissa Poulton says she is looking at dropped waist designs, off the shoulder and sheer fabric trends. “I’m doing something based on the earth elements, using a lot of pleats, dropped waist dresses as well as greens and earthy colours. I absolutely love spring so I cannot wait to see how people will be wearing some of these funky trends.”

Well-known for his out-of-the-box and revolutionised Herero dress designs, Mc Bright Kavari is planning to bring sexy back again.

“I am definitely looking at the off the shoulder trend for this season so you can expect to see a lot of off the shoulder Herero dress designs from me. I love this trend because it’s summer and it’s hot! Let the ladies breathe a bit.”

We can also expect to see something special for the gentlemen from Mc Bright who has made great efforts to build the menswear industry.

“We enjoy fashion too, so you can expect a lot of sleeveless items, breathable and comfortable summer wear.”

Lafika Joyce Heita who plans to make a comeback to the Namibian fashion industry says her collection titled ‘Metamorphosis 2.0’ will incorporate graphics inspired by flora prints, but says not to expect anything floral.

“The collection might be flora inspired, but don’t be fooled, there will be nothing floral in my print. I am also loving the laser cutout trend.”

This is why we all love spring – it comes with great weather, amazing flowers and of course new fashion inspiration.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.