Isabel De Villers Follows Her Gut and Explores Her Brand DNA for SS18 Collection

Keeping to her brand aesthetic which is minimalistic, transparent and drapery silhouette that caters to “women of all shapes and sizes, who enjoy modern and effortless style”. Isabel de Villiers (IDV) showcased a spectrum of colour in her collection of vivid reds, pinks, and yellows contrasted with monochrome white and black. The collection featured a signature print of alphabets which spells out Isabel De Villers reminiscent of Anisa Mpungwe 2013’s collaboration collection with Mr Price. She did not title this season’s collection, “I just went with my gut. I went with the brand DNA and I played around.” The 13 looks collection was styled with Antelo leather bags and noticeable Magogo jewellery by Magdalene Minnaar.

Noticeable was the absence of the archetypal Isabel de Villiers’ half medallion laser cut fabrics, to which when asked she said “I am still selling but you do not have to show it (at fashion week) to sell it. I feel like I have established the laser cutting and I get lots of orders on it but I also have to challenge myself as a designer and do something new and fresh.” The absence of the laser cut in this collection was a deliberate surprise element.

However, the true astonishment was the last three looks that closed off the designer’s showcase which were made in partnership with the bespoke furniture and lights design brand Kent and Lane, which is run by Pretoria based husband and wife duo. Kent and Lane and Isabel de Villiers worked together to conjure beautiful macramé handcrafted design pieces for the body. The first of the three garments was a beautiful macramé top paired with pink bermuda pants then out came a macramé miniature shoulder throw styled with a black jumpsuit and lastly to close off her collection to my disappointment, as I wanted more of this craft and weaving story to continue, was a statement red macramé pea coat length jacket paired with a plain red stretch dress. “I love craft. I think it is quite African and tribal and people can relate to it. And making something with your hands there is lots of appreciation for it. I wanted to celebrate it on the ramp” said Isabel de Villiers. Watch video HERE