This review excludes King David Tlale's show as I will post separately about that when I can get hold of some photos. However, let me be constructive about the rest:
1. When looping one song for an entire show, try not to include a chorus that states, "this shit is driving me mad," as you may have a self fulfilling prophecy on your hands.
2. Despite all evidence to the contrary, a male model gyrating in his tighty whiteys and grabbing his balls to show you is not the way to win over the female media in the front row. Really where does one look?
3. Fabiani had some cool cardigans that could work well for both ladies and the chaps they are meant for.
4. Where ever possible, designers, employ Martin Myers to consult on your show music. It can really change the reception your collection receives. At the Carducci Women's show it created an amazing — almost spiritual — atmosphere that resulted in a very emotional response.
5. When showing a commercial collection, style it into a narrative for the show. Francois Rall from Carducci Women added bold coloured tights and gloves, sunglasses and the most amazing shoe boots to his range for Stuttafords — meaning that it looked great for the ramp — not just the rack.
6. Using exquisite silk tulle and velvet to create fantasy little black dresses that evoke an Audrey Hepburn style is always going to get my vote. Beautiful and magical. Bravo Francois for Carducci Women.
All photos of Carducci Women shot by Simon Deiner of sdr photos.