23 and Taking Over!

She is 23, and almost at the top of the corporate ladder! Bukiwe Ndedenzi is a young and vibrant lady, who has manifested above the challenges inherent in being of youth in the fashion industry. As the design consultant of the latest Woolworths range to launch in South Africa, the beautiful lady shares with ALIYANA a bit about herself, as well as what we should wear this year.

Q:What inspires you to do what you do at such a young age?

A:I was lucky to find my passion at such a young age, I have always known that I wanted to venture into fashion it is what makes me happy and gives me that constant adrenalin rush. I remember as far back as when I was 9, I designed little stick figures in outfits.

Q:What has been the most challenging factor that you have faced?

A:Not to be pessimistic, as people always give you a look of disapproval when you say you studied fashion design.

Q:Your strength comes from…?

A:God always

Q:Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

A:I see myself as an entrepreneur with my own label, ideally I would like to have a chain of boutiques across the country but I suppose realistically that would happen over 10 years give or take.

Q:What legacy do you want to leave behind?

A:Its not the economy that shapes your success but its God and your passion for fashion (in my case)

Q: What advice would you give people who aspire to do what you do?

A:Retail experience is very important if you want to work for a retailer in order to understand your customer and processes; ideally you should do this part time while you are studying. There is a future in fashion do not hesitate be bold and passionate about it and you will definitely see the outcome.

FASHION:

Q:Since you live, breath and eat fashion, what can we expect from this winter?

A:Leather biker jackets, tunics with placement face prints or bold rose prints and etc, leggings whether printed or patent, waterfall knit pieces, acid wash skinny jeans, lace detailed and, studded ankle boots, knee high boots and embellished tops.

Q:How would you advice South Africans to incorporate their love for fashion and their country for the world cup?

A:South Africa is one of the most diverse country’s in the world, incorporating our cultural diversity in our clothing would definitely make a statement of national pride.

Q:What can we expect from Woolworths in the coming seasons?

A:Quality and style. Our brands are involving rapidly both classic and modern; and new ones are being born. We continue to cater across all lifestyles, genders and races.

Q:What is your favourite item for autumn and winter?

A:Woolworths leather biker jacket

Q: Since SA is a year behind in fashion, what will you be wearing come summer 2010?

• Embellished dresses and tops
• White is hot, this is achieved through fabric interest
• Grecian styled tops and dresses
• Leggings
• Soft harem pants
• Hem interest: uneven hem, hitched or bubbled
• Bra tops
• Bandeau tops
• Body con dresses
• The short : from supper short to rolled up cuff
• The newest trend to watch out for across all clothing styles is military which will also be key in W11