Nthatuoa Koeshe
THE Lesotho Fashion Week has opened entries for nominations for the debut Lesotho Fashion Awards (LSFA), scheduled for 17 April 2020.
The awards will be held during Lesotho Fashion Week Spring Summer 2020 season.
Mahali Granier, the founder of the Lesotho Fashion Week said the awards have been established “to nurture the rich kernels of talent scattered throughout Lesotho by shining a spotlight on some of its most creative eclectic designers, whose full potential remains unrealized”.
She said nominations across 18 categories are now open until 30 June 2019 and entries are open to all Lesotho Fashion creatives in various fashion disciplines.
The categories include accessories designer of the year, menswear designer of the year, women wear designer of the year, emerging designer of the year, female fashion model of the year, male fashion model of the year, fashion photographer of the year, best dressed celebrity and the best fashion school.
Other categories are fashion stylist of the year, fashion event of the year, makeup artist of the year, most influential fashion personality of the year, fashion icon, best fashion store, fashion videographer of the year, most beautiful fashion object from Lesotho and outstanding achievement.
Mahali said more than ever, Lesotho is viewed as a cradle of creativity, heritage, vibrancy and a significant source of inspiration in the fields of art, fashion and design.
“The media buzz surrounding the Lesotho fashion has never been louder than it is now,” Mahali said.
“We are increasingly witnessing Lesotho influenced fashion not only on glittering catwalks around the world but also in the designs of popular high street stores and boutiques.”
She said it is now time to celebrate and acknowledge such an achievement and there is no better way than through the LSFA.
Mahali said through this exclusive and unique celebration of the best of Lesotho fashion, the awards will endeavour to become the country’s number one gateway to international markets.
“Top fashion houses are increasingly embracing Lesotho inspired fashion aesthetic and top African designers are increasingly making names for themselves internationally,” Mahali said.
She added that she hopes that LSFA will give the new generation of Lesotho designers an opportunity to showcase their creations in front of an international audience, resulting in an increase in brand awareness as well as creation of new business opportunities.
