Linea news update

Our students returned to begin their 2nd Semester with news and stories which we would like to share with you:

After enjoying much success in the fashion competitions leading up to the Vodacom July Race Day, a few of our students decided to enter their fashion ensembles on the day.

Final-year student Kelly Pace was placed in the top 20 of the Classic Women’s Wear category. Another final-year student, Ramona Andrews, was placed in the top 20 for her entry in the “Most Striking Couple” category, and to crown it all, Shiksha Premrajh and Kelebogile Foraga won this title.

Kelebogile said he was extremely excited about the outcome, and that “all the hard-work and long hours spent working on my design was worth it.” Kelebogile said participating in the July was not all about the competition: “The most important part is the experience gained.” Students Steven Jacobsz and Caitlin Shoesmith also attended the July Day, and had their “five minutes of TV fame” which is just the start of more publicity opportunities.

Mummy Molapo, our eco-fashion designer who made it into the finals of the NCPC-SA’s No-Kak competition, received a medal and a sewing machine for her participation. Mummy says: “From interpreting the brief to participating in the final event, was an exciting and educational experience and I would urge every Linea student to participate in the next event.”

Our art lecturer, Claire Molliere, who was selected to participate in the Tapestry of Dreams competition, will be joined by Botho Chalebgwa. The organisers called to say that they wanted one more designer to participate in the event and that out of the remaining entrants, Botho was their best candidate.

Some students had a busy holiday working at apparel manufacturers. Jessica Khupe, Stephanie Bax and Brett Robinson spent part of their vacation at three different manufacturers. According to Jessica, the hours were long, but she learnt a great deal about the production value-chain, time-management and new apparel technology. Stephanie was extremely impressed with the variety of high-tech equipment used and realised that the making of clothing is both a manual and technology-driven industry. Brett found the experience of working under extreme pressure very valuable, along with the importance of record keeping, quality and costing. All three students said the time they spent at these operations was empowering, and encouraged all future students to seek holiday experience by working in manufacturing - the non-glamorous side of the fashion industry.

Linea students interested in fashion journalism have been invited to do some work for an American-based electronic Fashion Media Group, whilst other students are preparing for another race-day fashion event: The Gold Cup.

Hats off to all our students for their courage, commitment and creativity.