Sew Retro...

Sew it seams that winter comes in stages, as does the Autumn/Winter 2012 collection of Jaq and Bel, with the duo installing part 2 of their collection into Egality this weekend.  The second part of the collection is inspired by the futuristic ladies’ fashion of the 1960’s, evident in their styling, silhouettes and panelled colour blocking.

The shirts in the collection vary from a-line silhouettes with asymmetric pleat detailing, to double-dart, colour-blocked fitted shirts.  Futuristic double-collar detailing gives a simple white shirt a more current look, with colour blocked cuffs and button stand. 

A contemporary, softer version of the shirt dress in white on black, is sure to be received well by the consumer, as it presents itself with a very flattering silhouette, as well as a tailed hemline and interesting pleat detailing.  An a-line denim skirt will also be available in stores, at a flattering, on-the-knee length, this will be a staple for any ladies wardrobe this season, perfectly paired with the fitted white shirt it produces a beautifully flattering profile.

Part 2 of the collection falls in neatly with the design aesthetics of a distinctive Jaq and Bel collection.  Ladies, get ready to stock your wardrobe with the most moving retro fashion pieces seen since the swinging sixties.

Photography by Roxanne Lindenberg

Photos of Autumn/Winter 2012 Part 2 will be available at www.jaqandbel.co.za soon.

Wear is Winter?

Sew it seams winter is upon us and Jaq and Bel are pin-pointing this season’s winter trends with part 1 of their Autumn/Winter 2012 collection.  The inspiration behind the collection was drawn from the silhouettes and classic cuts of ladies wear in the 1940’s.  The fitted dresses in the collection exude a classic feel with contemporary elements, such as colour-blocked bright jewel tones, a new smaller, more prominent version of the Peter Pan collar, and pleat detailing to create interest and structure.  This pleat detailing is carried throughout the collection on shoulders, waistlines and the back of garments.  This is a signature Jaq and Bel characteristic, as they like to have the collection flow every season, they will always have one or two particular details that will be followed through on all garments.

Overall the collection oozes appealing combinations of jewel tones, interesting detailing and structured silhouettes, the perfect recipe for a Jaq and Bel customer to make a statement this winter.

For photos of Part 1 of Jaq and Bel’s Autumn/Winter 2012 collection, please visit www.jaqandbel.co.za

A summer sew hot...

Sew it seams that Jaq and Bel are destined for greatness.  James Mahlatse from Voila Magazine,  issue 13, wrote: “judging by the hype they have garnered within fashion circles, their Spring Summer 2011 (sold through Egality in Parkhurst) is a stone cold winner”.  The collection consisted of a variety of striking feminine dresses, suitable for many female body types and preferences.  The pair used bright primary colours, and interesting silhouettes.  The signature Jaq and Bel surprise element was evident in the open back dresses, and eye-catching detailing.  This collection was their first and allowed the label to discover that they are producing what South African women want to wear:  comfortable, feminine clothing with an edge.

Photography by:  Roxanne Lindenberg

For more images of this collection visit: www.jaqandbel.co.za

How it all began...

Sew it seams, the blossoming South African fashion label, Jaq and Bel is biting at the heels of the fashion industry.  The label was formed by Eliza Bella Ioannou and Sabrina Jacqueline Balanco in September 2011, and has been flourishing ever since.  The duo’s creative emphasis lies in wearable, comfortable, feminine clothing with a quirky personality and a hint of surprise.  Clean lines create silhouettes that flatter the female figure, and detailing is utilized to create contemporary looks.  Simplicity is the key factor in the majority of their design choices, with a love for contrasting vintage and retro styling, with modern and streamline silhouettes.  The label is very experimental with colour, which is what makes it so intriguing to the customer.  The characteristics of a typical Jaq and Bel client is someone who enjoys wearing current and individual fashion items, with an element of surprise.