Young Somali designer melds culture and fashion

Life in the diaspora has allowed many young Africans to flourish. ZamZam Duale, a Somali-Australian designer, who is only 19, is already taking giant strides at this tender age.

ZamZam, 19, made her fashion debut recently at the So’maal festival, a unique and creative event that allowed young people to express what it means to be a Somali-Australian.

“I would do anything to support my Somali community. Though I have worked in fashion shows before, to have and be at my own was something I could not pass! The feeling of seeing my first show at the So’maal festival in Melbourne come together on the runway was just wonderful. It was an experience I will never forget,” says ZamZam.

ZamZam uses her Somali heritage for inspiration to create stunning and contemporary clothes. Gracefully flowing chiffons, vibrant colours and a touch of alindi, a traditional hand-woven Somali fabric distinguished by variously coloured stripes, are some of the hallmarks of this young designer.

Another source of inspiration for ZamZam is Zuhair Murad, a world renown Lebanese designer, whose lavish creations and sensational colours draw the rich civilisations and culture of ancient Egypt and Greece.

The theme for the show at the So’maal festival was Somali goddess. ZamZam is a stickler for details designed twenty-four evening dresses worn by beautiful models from the Horn of Africa. “It was hard work as I had to cut the patterns and sew. It took me a full day to complete each dress. While ZamZam enjoys making evening dresses, her dream is to design wedding dresses.

ZamZam’s interest in fashion started when she was in high school. “We had a class where we had to choose from courses such as cooking, sports, computer technology or fashion. I had always loved fashion so it was an easy choice for me. The very first class was enough to convince me that this was the path I had to take,” adds ZamZam.

ZamZam is currently undertaking a three-year Advanced Diploma of Fashion and Technology at the Melbourne School of Fashion. While her studies help to shape her evolving fashion sense, ZamZam already knows what sort of designer she would like to be:

“I think fashion can be quite lazy today – people tend to wake up and just throw on a t-shirt and jeans and that is it. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but I often think of the 1920′s when people would have many dress changes throughout the day; morning wear, evening wear, and an outfit for the night. Each piece of clothing was appropriate for the event and time. I’d like to see more of the passion of the “Roaring Twenties” coming back,” says ZamZam.

As to her next steps, ZamZam has equally clear thoughts. With her first fashion show under her belt, she intends to get a label before her next fashion show in late September 2013, and looks forward to having a successful brand and her own store in the future.

Fashion merges with culture to form new designs

Fashion is a term which is always related with modernization and development but the evolution and expansion of fashion depends also on tradition and culture of various places. For example, it can be the hand embroidery practiced in a small village of Gujarat, India, or African culture and tradition, or the various sub-cultures found in Hong Kong.

Fashion designers from around the world create new and innovative collection by taking inspirations from their own culture as well as from the culture of other regions. They merge the culture of east with the west and the north with the south to create new patterns and designs.

In an interview with fibre2fashion, Ms. Shelly Gera, marketing head of Shrujan, says, “Hand embroidery from Kutch in Gujarat has influenced the fashion industry in a big way. Starting from the street fashion, where trendy bags and garments designed with bold and colorful Kutchi embroidery with lots of mirrors, to the high end fashion designers who use both its bold and finer forms in their products, are influenced by hand embroidery.”

Talking about the significance of Kutch embroidery, she says, “Hand embroidery from Kutch is not just about different techniques of embroidery but it is a means of social and cultural expression for the communities who practice them.”

“Each embroidery has a soul of its own lexicon of stitches and motifs and it is a very personal craft which women have been practicing for their own use,” she explains.

Shrujan is an organization in India which promotes the hand embroidery weavers in Kutch at Gujarat.

Kenyan fashion designer Liz Ogumbo, who has launched her own clothing brand after spending about 14 years within the fashion industry, says that African culture and tradition has been the inspiration for her entry in the fashion industry.

“Africa is the hub of art. The musical space (both vocal and instrumental), fabric, earth that produces clay for pottery, grass for the artifacts, beads created out of wood, mud, glass, precious stones etc., establishes a space for creative works and I have got my inspiration from Africa,” she mentions.

Various local and international fashion weeks held globally also plays a vital role in promoting local culture through emerging designers. Some of the examples of such platforms are the Zimbabwe Fashion Week, Hong Kong Fashion Week and New Zealand fashion Week.

Sandra Chau, an emerging fashion designer from Hong Kong who has created her own label Flux talks about the influence of Hong Kong in her life. She says, “Being in Hong Kong actually inspired me to think more about fashion and try to get out of the territorial boundary.”

“Hong Kong is a small city, yet it has gathered many different cultures and sub0cultures and it stands as an important platform in global fashion industry as it creates an interesting fashion culture between orientaland western,” she concludes.

Fall fashion mood

 Autumn is one of my favorite times of the year – it somehow feels like the perfect time to start over, be better and do better in the midst of a bitter sweet nostalgia for summer and all the adventures you had or at least wished you had. 

Fall is the moment to start getting things done and look good doing it. I know most people get a bit depressed this time of the year but I always experienced quite the contrary.

  

This particular season I’m seeing myself in a colorful mix of ladies country clothing and feminine bohemian pieces with cool western touches. I’m thinking denim with leather, tartan and fur and lots of colorful accessories. I want to resemble a chic gipsy if there's even such a thing!

I don’t know how you feel about this particular subject but I love to look a bit odd in the big city – like I don’t quite blend in and don't belong here, like I actually live on a horse farm and could spend my afternoons in a golden field of wheat or picking perfect apples from my own orchard.This fantasy that clothes are a big part of is more for my own sake than anybody else’s, but I guess it's going to be entertaining for everybody!

Maxi skirts with huge belts and over the knee boots, hats and colorful scarves, knitwear and layers of jewelry to top it off - these are the elements I'm looking forward to. I’m actually pretty excited about my fashion mood board for this fall!

How do you see yourself dressed this fall? Do you have a staple look in mind?

The Best Beauty Looks From New York Fashion Week: Spring 2013

Calvin Klein Spring 2013

Francisco Costa closed New York Fashion Week with a minimal but graphic Calvin Klein collection that covered some of the American season's biggest trends. Namely: Black-and-white and graphics. Seamed dresses with exaggerated peekaboo bra details followed one after another.

Backstage Essential: Redken Full Frame 07 Protective Volumizing Mousse.

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Calvin Klein Spring 2013

In a quite fantastic optic moment, the designer layered black moire over white shift. It was in a wave pattern that, when the model walked, looked like it was undulating itself.

Backstage Essential: Redken Full Frame 07 Protective Volumizing Mousse.

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Ralph Lauren

Given the Gaucho-inspired feel of the runway collection, Redken hairstylist Guido went for a refined, polished chignon, which was worn on its own or topped with a hat. Guido created a clean center part, gathered hair into a low, tight ponytail and misted with a shine spray before twisting the tail into a knot. A shot of hairspray helped tame any flyaways for a super sleek the models even wore off the runway.

Backstage Essential: Redken Shine Flash 02 Glistening Mist

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Proenza Schouler

Sometimes what could be a “mistake” can be the defining element of a look. Take the intentionally creased hair seen here—Fekkai hairstylist Paul Hanlon wanted the hair to look like models had slept in black collars, leaving a natural dent. To achieve the effect, he spritzed hair with water, tied on a scarf around the neck, tucking the hair in, and then diffused strands. After the scarf was removed, he rubbed on a finishing cream, picking out pieces to create a messy, lived-in feel.

Backstage Essential:  Fekkai Coiff Magnifique Ultra-Light Finishing Crème

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Monika Chiang

Zoom! The silver racing stripe nails seen here provided a fresh, sporty look we loved. Lancôme manicurist Ana-Maria applied a coral red to the base of the nail and finished with a sleek stripe of chrome.

Backstage Essential: Lancôme Vernis in Love in Rouge in Love, Essie Nail Polish in No Place Like Chrome

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Narciso

Instant trick to make your eyes glisten: do like Shiseido makeup artist Dick Page and rim your eyes with a glossy lip treatment—yes, really! Just dab it around the perimeter (careful not in the eye) and finish with mascara for a lush glow.

Backstage Essential: Shiseido Benefiance Full Correction Lip Treatment 

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Marc by Marc Jacobs

The punchy, printed headscarves provided all the pop of color needed near the face, Shiseido makeup artist Dick Page told us backstage. To avoid a "color fight" he kept the skin simple—no blush or bright lip—and instead smudged dark cream liner around the eyes for a soft, smoky eye that hit the right tone.

Backstage Essentials: Shiseido Shimmering Cream Eye Color in Caviar

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Vera Wang

A smoky eye can come in many colors but the rose gold shades used backstage at Vera Wang had us transfixed. Clé de Peau makeup artist Lucia Pieroni achieved the pink-y gilded effect by sweeping a gold shadow over the lid, a brown in the crease and a bronze (damped with water to intensify the shade) under the eye. To accentuate the effect, Fekkai hairstylist Paul Hanlon pulled hair back from the face, teasing it and literally wrapping it, like a turban, around the head, pinning in place.

Backstage Essential: Clé de Peau Eye Color Quad in Aquamarine (launching in February 2013)

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Fashion Horoscope For Fall 2013 To Help You Look Your Best

With the fall season upon us and cooler weather in sight, it's time to start thinking about what you plan on wearing for the chilly days ahead. Whether you've already meticulously planned your outfits, or you're just diving into the September issues, we have some tips, customized for each zodiac sign, to help you look your best this time of year.

Astrologer JoAnn Reeves and style and makeup guru Johnny Burnais teamed up to give us some insight on what each sign can expect this fall -- and where your money will be best spent. Maybe you should stock up on motorcycle jackets this season, or perhaps it's time to show your sexier side in a pair of thigh-high boots.

Find out what the sartorial gods have in store for you.

Aries

JoAnn Reeves: Life gets back into action this fall, and it’s time to go for something new. September and October are months for fun, so go for bright colors and expand your horizons. Also, make sure you follow the Aries motto, "Just do it."

Johnny Burnais: Fall is so exciting for us Aries! It’s a very fun and fearless season when you will feel you are ready for anything. Invest in a leather motorcycle jacket for a strong look, and while you are at it, grab a pair of noise-canceling headphones, and use them when necessary.

Sarah Jessica Parker (born March 25)

Taurus

JR: You are still working on long-range plans at this time, so it’s nose to the grindstone when it comes to work. Fortunately Mars, the planet of energy, supports your strength and resolve. You are not in the mood to spend a lot of money on big purchases, so treat yourself to some small things that brighten your mood.

JB: Taureans are strong, classy and feminine, and the same goes for their style. Work the classic Hollywood look as its effortlessly vibe suits you. Since you already own these pieces, mix colored turtlenecks with classic pencil skirts. For makeup, invest in ablack liquid liner for a cat-eye look and a fuschia matte lipstick for a modern take on a femme-fatale.

Jessica Alba (born April 28)

Gemini

JR: While you expanded your world this summer with all kinds of additions to what you have, now it’s time to focus on the essentials. Think shoes and stockings to go with your recent purchases. You don’t require a new outfit, you just need to put order to what you have -- that goes for pieces of paper and pieces in your closet.

JB: I love my Gemini friends for their flexibility and ability to be on trend. Invest in classic pieces with an edge. Pair your skinny jeans with sexy thigh-high boots -- this look is going to be around for a while.

Heidi Klum (born June 1)

Cancer

JR: Congratulations little crab, fall is your season this year. Jupiter, the planet of good luck, is in your sign so that means there is more of everything you want through the end of the year. You are generally pretty cautious about your investments, but at this time think big purchases. What have you always wanted? Whatever it is, now is the time to treat yourself.

JB: The exciting news for Cancers is that your days are going to get a little lighter and a whole lot happier. Please treat yourself this season, as you have been so good for so long. Your amazing ability to invest in comfortable things translates well for luxury items. Splurge on a gorgeous swing coat and mix it with a new pair ofchunky platforms.

Diane Kruger (born July 15)

Leo

JR: I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I must warn you not to overextend yourself this fall. There is not much room for extras until December. That being the case, think about what you want to shine in for the holidays and purchase those items later. You like the attention your looks can bring, so accessorize with bright and shiny things.

JB: For fall, challenge yourself by shopping for jewelry you already own and you will literally find some hidden gems. Pair bangles and earrings with your sexiest dressand you will look new from head to toe.

Mila Kunis (born August 14)

Virgo

JR: November and December are very good months for health and style. Venus, the sign of beauty, is in your favor and it's time to add some classics to your wardrobe. At this moment you don’t have to be a penny pincher and if it’s something to keep you warm or something to make you shine, you will have the resources to get what you want. Don’t worry about it, be good to yourself.

JB: Autumn is a time to have a little fun with your shopping indulgences. Since you already have a complete wardrobe (who are we kidding?), put yourself on trend with a new structured bag, ankle boots and a statement necklace. And don’t feel guilty, these are all timeless pieces.

Beyonce (born September 4)

Libra

JR: This fall you want to change up a lot of things in your life, like who you see and what you wear. It’s a sea of changes so it might be easier to keep it simple. Keep the good people in your life and remember that quality always beats out quantity.

JB: Find a balance this fall and enjoy being social after all the long hours you have been putting in. Libras are always classic but with a twist, so pick out a black or navy top with shoulder slits, and pair it with a dark matte nail polish.

Kim Kardashian (born October 21)

Scorpio

JR: Well I wish it was all better, but it’s not quite yet. Keep your spiritual side up and your stinging side down. The only one you can control at this time is yourself. Whatever your mood, adding color to your life will tell the world that all is right. And soon your happiness will catch up with your desires.

JB: Shop for the bright things to “lift” your wardrobe along with your spirits. Choose something feminine that you can make your own -- a floral dress would be a nice change to all those neutral pieces in your wardrobe.

Alexa Chung (born November 5)

Sagittarius

JR: It's time to embrace your very human, beautiful side. If you can’t get away this season, go there in your mind, it's the strongest tool you have.

JB: This season is a very enlightening time for you gals, so why not show it? Put together a crème-colored monochromatic outfit and pair it with gold accentsfor a look that is both feminine and powerful.

Lindsay Price (born December 6)

Capricorn

JR: Venus is in your sign this fall so expect the best. You are generally cautious and somewhat conservative in choices, but may I suggest you let it rip this season and branch out into something a little wild? You might be surprised at the good reactions you get.

JB: Allow yourself to be a little more daring this season. With a closet as conservative as yours, you need a bit of fun, like a cheetah or zebra print dress. Believe me, you will know exactly when to pull these items out, as you will be exercising your wild side in the coming months.

Kate Middleton (born January 9)

Aquarius

JR: It’s time to get down to business and your look should suggest someone who has what it takes to run an empire. Cloak yourself in classics and you can’t go wrong. Also, it might be time to join another group, so go to a lecture, try something different or think about adding to your education.

JB: Versatility is key and you can really have it all by buying an edgy plaid jacket. Plaid flavors whatever you put it with, so pair it with riding boots for American sophistication or with motorcycle boots to channel your inner rockstar.

Emma Roberts (born February 10)

Pisces

JR: Grooming is important at this time, so pull it together and accessorize a bit. Look for bright and shiny items to lift your mood and make sure you see to your skin and hair!

JB: When people who really aren’t important to you manage to get to you and give you icy looks, give it right back with an icy-blue sweater and shiny silver cuffs.You will feel so comfortable in your favorite color.

Jessica Biel (born March 3)

Some fall fashion inspiration:

JoAnn Reeves has been a practicing astrologer for 25 years. She has made media appearances on The View, Dr. Phil and Infinite Quest to name a few. Throughout her life she has talked to thousand of people about their charts and cites astrology as her tool.

Johnny Burnais has been a makeup artist for 20 years. Over the years, Johnny has gained tremendous experience in the fashion and beauty industry where he played a key part in launching the iconic brands of NARS and Giorgio Armani Cosmetics. He has assisted at fashion shows like Marc Jacobs and Anna Sui, and has celebrity clients that range from Natalie Portman to Naomi Campbell.

Article Credit: Huffingtonpost