On May 26 2017, the people fashion team took to Cape Town for the Stylish Old Me Fashion Show. And, as with every fashion show, we were excited to see what the designer was bringing to the table – it’s always amazing to see their creativity come to life through their collection.
Not to mention the fact that it’s a great way to keep everyone clued-up on what the latest trends are.
It goes without saying, of course, that we arrived in style, greeted with a delightful combination champagne and canapés, and, as we waited for the show to begin, mingled with guests, who were invited to take selfies with the popular ring light, have a look at the latest Smash Box products and meet and chat to owner of Stylish Old Me, Claudette Gopi.
There to start the show was performer Sketchy Bongo, who did a great job warming the crowd up – though to be honest we were all already pretty hyped as it was for the fashion.
On the runway we spotted quite a few extremely popular winter trends, as well a good few seasonless ones, too. From fringes and colour-block to Aztec print, it was obvious that the power behind Stlyish Old Me had made sure to cater for all styles and personalities.
A few of our favourites were a navy blue lace sophisticated dress, a couple of African print dresses, pants and crop tops, and a crowd-favourite: Fusion/Bollywood pieces.
It wasn’t just personalities that were given consideration, but age too, and the line incorporated a range of different ages – something we were very happy to see, as many designers focus only on a certain group. But not with Stylish Old Me! There was everything from an outfit for your mother to get-up for your edgy best friend.
The people team had an amazing time, and we cannot wait to see what’s next for Stylish Old Me.
We sat down with the Claudette Gopi to find out where her inspiration for her collection came from as well as find out a bit more about the her and her brand.
Who is Claudette Gopi?
I am a proud wife and mother of two gorgeous kids. An accountant by profession.
Describe yourself in four words?
Determined, passionate, motivated and STYLISH
Tell us a little a bit of your background.
I am formally from Durban, I used to design garments for small boutiques in and around SA and decided that I love this and I want to do this for myself. I am able to design, cut and sew a garment together by myself. I love this industry.
What was the inspiration behind your collection?
Ever heard the saying ‘a woman should be seen and not heard’? That is what I wanted to create. Making a statement without saying word. This is the motto of my brand.
Winter season is here and you have created a collection of bold, trendy and statement pieces that would be perfect for winter. Tell us a bit about the inspiration behind each piece?
I love each piece that I have put together. I have a passion for this, I love fashion designing and garment producing. Well with this collection I want women to feel comfortable and easy. Something we can use to work, stay home with or even have a night out. I launched 80 pieces for my launch and had a lot more to put in.
What would you say every woman should own in her wardrobe as well as for winter?
A pair of your favourite jeans!!! I will create tops for you that will look fab in them! Not forgetting a favourite DRESS no matter your size you can still look and feel good.
We would love to know a bit more about the process with the construction of your garment. What has been used and where do you source your quality materials?
Believe it or not I have been travelling between Cape Town and Durban in order to find good fabric. I believe in quality.
My parents are my biggest help in the construction of the garments. My dad helps me grade the patterns and mum and I sew up the garments together. I plan to travel a lot more to acquire good fabric. I love fabrics! Give me a roll of fabric and I can do wonders
Is there a story behind the name of Stylish Old Me?
I created this brand nine months ago, to be born on the 26th May 2017. Stylish Old Me is a South African brand it is not just a runway collection but a collection you can use every day. This brand is clothing is for females.
This brand has no specific age group as a person should sure something they are comfortable in, something that defines there character. Most women dress for the occasion as well. This brand having been born in a diversified country, I have collaborated eastern, western and the African culture.
Do you have any tips for anyone wanting to start their own business or label but who doesn’t know how to go about it?
Google It… I researched and found a way, it takes time DON’T give up! The Media in South Africa are absolutely fantastic there assistance and wanting information is amazing. We have very good public eyes.
What’s next for Stylish Old Me?
The website has been launched for online sales but I am just making a few changes to the ranges. This being a brand that you can purchase internationally, I am planning on taking trips to different countries to get the brand and name out as SA has a lot of potential, why should we always import brands we need to share our talent with the world. I am so excited of the next step; I want to take my brand to higher levels. My one step that I want to get to is a MAKE OVER STAGE you submit a picture of yourself online with your size and we will style you up!
For more on Stylish Old Me, e-mail info@stylisholdme.com or phone (061) 303-5822.
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