Life and times



“Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the streets, fashion has to with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” Coco Chanel’s utterances couldn’t have been more precise regarding my sentiments towards fashion, therefore, what better fitting theme to draw inspiration from than that of “The Life and Times” by Milisuthando Bongela.

Our journey begins at Second Treasures in Empangeni KZN, where old and worn out items are revived into something of value. Christie, the owner and creative director of Second Treasures has this uncanny ability to turn shabby into to chic. I was blown away the cow skull that is painted blue and purpose transformed to that of a jewellery hanger. I enjoy this space so much mainly because, it has a great sense of adventure, almost every piece has its own story, I can never look at enamel bowl or cup the same way again.

I’m  also  quite fond of anything that usually goes unnoticed and in some way whispers “discover me”, Jack’s Corner was definitely that place for me. There is such harmony between the aqua blue and white interior decor and, the gentle view of the Indian Ocean, Naval Island Harbour and lush greenery. The vibe is so calm; they serve great food and also perfect for sundowners on those humid summer nights that Richardsbay is known for.

The Kwa-Zulu Natal Society of Art  (KZNSA) in Glenwood,Durban is an absolute pleasure when it comes to appreciating an array of art, whilst savouring a slice cake and sipping your coffee. I was lucky enough to catch a glimpse of award winning photographer Malala Andrialavidrazana’s “ Echoes (from the Indian Ocean)”. The gripping element of Andrialavidrazana's photography is her ability to capture the often overlooked, “no frills” candid aspects of the city, the people and the relationship between the two. On the way out one can grab a lovely item from the art gallery shop.

Fashion for me is an expression of a certain culture and the interpretation of that culture is what determines one’s personal style. So I hit the city streets to see what was trending and also observe how the individuals and collectives embracing those trends. One of the latest yet ancient movements in fashion is the “head wrap” or in isiZulu “umnqwazo”. It seems that the brighter colours or the more the vibrant the prints on the turban, tend to reflect the boldness of the bearer.  It was also interesting to see that Durbanites preferred scarves that covered a lesser bit of their hair as opposed Joburgers who were more outright and wrapped their entire heads turban style.

When it comes to ‘goose bumps music’ the bands that are creating buzz in the “neo-soul, jazz,funk’ category if ever are; The Muffinz Live, The Fridge and Ms Lilly Million. We love them because they are young South Africans doing their thing, their sound is so soulful and fresh, and they possess great individual style on and off the stage.

I’m excited about nooks and crannies that can be found in the city and one such place is “The Fashion Kapitol” in downtown Jozi's Fashion District is where our journey ends. There is a great selection of up and coming talent like “The Doll House Fashion Garage, Street Tribal and Iintsizwa Ziphelele just to name a few encompass the potential to catapult this place into the next go to spot. Swing by on Friday’s for the Fashion Shack’s braai days and Saturdays for live bands, poetry and open stalls.

Throughout this journey the recurrent theme has defiantly been” creativity breeds”. It breeds; innovation, curiosity, opportunity and interprets trends. It will not be limited and is content with being nothing more than itself, creative.




The beautiful blue scull that blew me away
www.secondtreasures.blogspot.com




Small town serenity at Jack's Corner
www.jackscorner.co.za




Relish in the beauty of the art with a rich cuppa coffee in hand.
www.kznsagallery.co.za





Street Fashion- " The Head Wrap" Joburgers VS Durbanites
The best head wraps can be found at the fabric shops

 





The Fridge -  "Peace and Lovely Things"
On twitter: @withinthefridge/soundcloud






The poetic sounds of the "Street Tribal" duo at the Fashion Kapitol
www.ifashion.co.za

                                       

Creative Portfolio

My First Post

”Always remember that you are unique. Just like everyone else.”

WOWie so it’s finally here, the big “project” that I’ve been in frenzy about. My family and friends know this all too well.

Now, some people may be thinking “it’s just a blog dear, sooo many people are and have been blogging, relax yourself”.  True, nevertheless these stories have been sewn together through Macebisa’s wandering eye and capturing heart, how can they possibly be the same as anyone else’s?

This brilliant idea came to me a day after I had been wallowing in the shame of a bad decision that I had made. That decision turned into an incident, which spiralled into something that tainted my character in my family’s eyes. One can’t really decide whether they will be the first, only or last born, nevertheless, cliché’s come with your position in the family. I am the last born in my family and they are known to give up easily because they never have to fight for anything i.e  hand – me -downs. My fire, energy, creativity has always been misunderstood, though within good reason at times.

 As I was having my “pity-party” at one of my favourite hangout spots at home, the Empangeni Library, I found out that there was a competition to become a“fashion street reporter” for Elle magazine. But you had to be a blogger too. My whole being couldn’t resist. The following day I was taking pictures and interviewing people at the Zululand Hospice,I realised that zeal my good friend was back... but for how long?

After having gathered all this information, processing it, editing, my blog disappeared, (how traumz was I). I’m relieved, that I’ve made it to the end. Ironically, it’s only just the beginning.   Throughout this journey I have had the greatest support, mind you this is not the only project I’ve undertaken, unfortunately in the past I’ve been a “ lastborn” about it.

I love surprises as long as I’m not the *surprisee. I ‘m grateful to my friends, who even though in limbo , remained  very positive, loving and have been waiting patiently  for the big reveal. I apologise to those who didn’t know about, those who knew weren’t supposed to anyway, not personal at all.

 I’m also grateful to those that have made “Creativity Breeds” a reality. Sthe “Gummie” Gumede for being the guy who always helps me translate my creative thought process into amazing digital art, with the utmost patience and grace. Thank-you Sifiso “Kev” Halama for teaching me and helping with web design.  Also for finding the blog when I was in a panic after it had disappeared. Ngiyabonga,  Zodumo “MaBie” Biyela  for being a part of the offering, even when it meant standing in shorts in the SNOW. J

My family, Njabulo, reminding me to me calm down.  Pito , for your constant support. My brother for understanding me and helping my mother understand. My brother –in-in law, for listening and driving me around even though you had the sneezes . I’d also to thank the queens of my heart and funders of the dream, my darling sister and dearest mother. I thank you Nkosi, for being patient and supporting me. MaMthyiane you are the ying to my yang, you never give up on me, you dream with me and are always honest with me.

I aslo thank Elle magazine for re-awakening the crazy creative in me.

Lastly, my heart pumps thick blood bursting with gratitude to God the father, Jesus the Son and The Holy Spirit Thank-you for the guidance, peace, grace and joy.

 In the Universe I trust.

That said, I Welcome you, the creative breed to “a place where even dreams believe” as creativity breeds.