South African designer launches collection at New York Fashion Week
By Dennis Kabatto – It was a watershed moment for Brooklyn based South African designer, Phumelele Kunene.
Teen model Mikayla rocks BlackPhumelele’s dress at New York Fashion Week 2015 – Photo credit – Exilus Media
Phumelele, the only African out of 18 designers who made their New York Fashion Week debut on Friday, September 11 packed the Punto Space in Manhattan to introduce her Spring/Summer 2016 Collections.
The dresses presented by 14 absolutely gorgeous models ranges from jumpsuits to Kimono dresses.
“Showing my collection at New York Fashion Week was both groundbreaking and monumental for my brand BlackPhumelele. It gives one’s label the recognition and presence within the fashion industry and at the same time displays where one is in the fashion game.”
Models presents BlackPhumelele’s Collection at Punto Space during her launch at New York Fashion Week 2015
Born in South Africa and grew up in Swaziland, Phumelela’s passion for fashion was realized at an early age when she would alter dresses her mother bought for her to create unique designs.
Two years ago, her passion manifested in the creation of BlackPhumele Clothing Line in Brooklyn, New York.
“The next phase is to leverage the publicity in a creative way which builds upon this great achievement, and moves the brand forward. Our goal is to reach a wider market audience and expand our offerings to the greater New York City area,” Phumelele said in a statement.
BlackPhumelele dresses are currently available at Courtney Washington Boutique in Brooklyn, New York.
