The Bespoke By. Sir Kempson Ari weYulu
@ZambiazHarshTag @KempsonAri
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ashikis have made a massive
comeback, women have reverted to their natural nappy/kinky hair, and African
print is suddenly the new vogue. Before this global phenomenon however, there
was a fashion designer who was yards of fabric ahead of the trend. Popularly
known as Fay Designs or simply by
the mononym Fay, it was she over a
decade ago (and still is an institution today) that pioneered the Afrocentric
look and is still in the game as one of the top A-list designers in the Zambian
fashion industry that caters to the local, international and A-list market. Faith M Kabende has come a long way
from her 99 Mulombwe Close studio and now has an atelier on Bwinjinfwumu and a
flagship store in Northmed Lusaka.
Fay has transcended local markets
and has been waving the Zambian fashion flag high, showcasing and selling hear
wares on the international market. Having received another nod, Fay has been
nominated to showcase and represent Zambia (along with two other designers) at
the 3rd annual African
Fashion Reception on the 21st
of November 2015 in Paris.
Having already showcased at the inaugural reception and the second one held
last year, this year makes her a triple threat. With 10 outfits being the
receptions runway requirement, the source of inspiration is an important component
to understanding what to expect from Fay. For the Paris collection, she cited
the solar system as her inspiration
and the collection will be an ode to God who is the supreme creator and source
of inspiration. She also added that the portfolio will be infused with her
signature afrocentric flavor. Day 1 of the event she stated will be devoted to
showcasing her designs on the run way, and the second day will be trading day.
Not only will this prestigious event be a great platform to further promote the
brand, she also affirmed that she is honored by being granted the privilege of
being nominated a 3rd time.
As far as support goes, she is
expecting to receive support from the Ministry
of Tourism, Arts and Culture as
well as the National Arts Council.
Having footed her own bill last year, can we please insure we appropriately
support artists promoting our country on the world stage, and as such I implore
the private sector/business community to support the arts at all levels.
Echoing Fay’s sentiments also, the ministry must also consider sending
bloggers/writers to chronicle and inform people at home and on social media on
ongoing international aesthetic events where Zambians and representing Zambia
such as the reception in Paris. No doubt in our minds and hearts 3ree peat Fay
will do the Zambian copper eagle proud. Bonne
chance Madam Fay, we are rooting for you!
Catch The Verbatim With Fay as she talks fashion school, video games and
express who she is at kalembaweyulu.wordpress.com
Great article Flint and I second your call for more support to the arts and other non-traditional fields.
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