This is not the 1st time that I have written about the talented Laduma Ngxokolo. This time, it involves something refined and more 'upper class' and well, quite frankly it is paired really well with Laduma Ngxokolo.
Chivas Regal 18YO that is.
From the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University to the runways across the world like London and Paris, the 2014 Emerging Creative of the Design Indaba, Laduma Ngxokolo's talents have opened so many doors for him. MaXhosa by Laduma, which is the Xhosa inspired fashion label created by Laduma, some of which I can proudly say that I have in my closet, has helped give his unique culture a bit of international spotlight.
The idea started after learning his trade from his late mother when she taught him to hand machine knit at the age of 16, and I do believe he never knew what this skill would bring to him in the many forms of success. "I specialised in Xhosa knitwear," Laduma says. "My culture and heritage are immeasurably valuable to me, so I wanted to create something suitable for the amakrwala (Xhosa initiates) to wear, but which was also contemporary and stylish." Materials are all locally sources from his home in the Eastern Cape and using a blend of 80% wool and 20% mohair, he creates luxurious products of a premium quality.
So in years gone by, Alexander McQueen, Ashish N Soni & Vivienne Westwood have all designed for the famous Scotch Whisky Chivas Regal. Now the time has come and the 1st African to work and design with Chivas Regal is Laduma Ngxokolo. Being so impressed with Laduma's dedication to winning the 'right way' and achieving such success through integrity, Chivas Regal approached him to create and design a limited edition packaging for the 18 Year Old Scotch Whisky,
The design is strikingly and unapologetically South African. Golden X's rest on a vivid blue background, which communicate Ngxokolo's brand. "The X motif, is very meaningful to me," he shares. "I love the distinctive Xhosa sound. It's also interpreted from traditional Xhosa beadwork, dating back to the late 19th century, which I've translated into a more modern design."
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| These limited edition packs will be available in selected stores for purchase as from March 2016. |
When asked why he thinks that his design style complements the Chivas Regal brand so well, Laduma has this to say, "I try to create 'slow fashion'; pieces that are investments due to their obvious quality, craftmanship and exceptionality. Chivas Regal Whisky is the same - a premium taste, soft and unique, that is meant to be savoured." Now that is a serious good answer if I have to say so! And when you look at his items of clothing, you will just know that it is very true.
For example, there is this shawl (I am sure that if you are reading this, you will know exactly what shawl) that he had designed and it actually won the title of the Most Beautiful Object in South Africa at the Design Indaba this year. (As voted for by the public.) This just goes to show how well paired Laduma Ngxokolo and Chivas Regal 18YO Scotch Whisky are.
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| A very striking Chivas Regal Counter at the Design Indaba 2016. |
The 1st time I had seen or even heard of Laduma Ngxokolo, was at #MBFWJ a few years back. And it was that night that I had witnessed his #AW range take to the runway. Upon the final walkabout, the crowd rose to their feet and Laduma Ngxokolo was cheered on with a standing ovation. Little to my knowledge, did I know that a few months later, I would have the privilege to meet and have one on one time with Laduma himself on a trip to Cape Town about 2 years ago.
We spent the day together and I had a tour around the factory where all his materials are made and we spoke about his journey and how has grown and what his aspirations are for the future. Well, lets just say that this man sure had VERY big dreams and VERY big aspirations. And you know what? He has actually achieved them! No wait. He has actually gone beyond his dreams and aspirations and I will always be one of his biggest supporters and will always be watching his progress into the international fashion world with a close eye.
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