duffymakoti

 
There are many reasons why people like weddings; but if it is a South African wedding and falls within one of the 11 cultures you know it will be colourful and festive.  From the chop chopping of vegetables, to the endless singing; to the weekend long celebrations and ofcourse my favourite part...the attire!  Traditional wear is by far my most favourite of all time; even though I dont own 1!

Today's brides(couples) love to mix what was yesterday with what is today.  They love to create new styles with standard ways of wearing traditional gear.  This is why my dearest friend wanted a modern dress in the traditional se shweshwe fabric.  My heart skips a beat just thinking about African inspired fabrics and creations.

We opted for the thick 3cats pink se shweshwe (with a bit of persuasion from myself); I must admit though it was a challenge as se shweshwe has evolved from brown/white and blue/white combinations.  I thank the heavens for newness and the abundance of creativity human beings have.  The pink dress was trimmed with black taffeta; fitted at the top and breaking into a bit of volume at the hips.  And dont forget the headscarf(doek) which is trending on ramps NOW!

The second dress(blue/white) was the bigger challenge as I had to keep it a secret.  The bride could not know; and since I could not attend the festivities; I enjoyed playing this part.  I had to create a dress from the measurements of the pink dress; then cross my fingers and toes that it fit just like the pink dress. Luckily I am the same size as the bride...except shorter.  So every little detail I remember about my friend came into play to make the dress perfect. 

On Saturday the day of the umembeso in White River I was not breathing at all.  I was taking short breaths waiting for some kind of indication that the dress fits.  They kept me suffering till atleast 12 midday.  I was relieved to see the picture of the bride in it; and I thanked God for giving me an eye for detail and attention to lines.  I missed the ceremony but these outfits carried me there in spirit.  Love it!