A couple of weeks ago we were invited to the 46664 winter launch at the Brand ID offices in Cape Town. For those of you who don’t know, 46664 – four, double six, six four – was the prison number given to Nelson Mandela when he was imprisoned for life in 1964. Not only is it a significant number but it´s also a fashion brand – 46664 Fashion. The only official 46664 fashion brand, which looks great and helps continue the immense legacy of a global icon for good.
Nelson Mandela loved being a boxer. He appreciated the grace and discipline of the sport. He would rise before dawn to do battle in the ring. There he learned what it means to go the distance. To never give up. To make every move count. In 2012 46664 Fashion pays tribute to Madiba, the fighter; to his incredible strength of spirit and courage in the face of adversity. Every detail of Winter 2012 tells a story and we´re listening.
It is really refreshing to see a local range that is not obviously African, although there are some beautiful animal and tribal prints coming in for Summer 2012/13. Most of the range is manufactured locally in Cape Town, thereby providing jobs and paying a fair wage, except for the denim which is imported. 46664 Fashion is the most exciting local clothing label to emerge out of South Africa in forever. I love that they are doing their own thing in terms of going against the seasonal trends in colour and design.
For ladieswear you can expect funky, fresh, flirty and quirky designs. For the boys – vibrant blazers and denim with amazing detail. There are also some fabulous, affordable printed “statement” tees designed by Craig Native. The brand is also headed for international shores and will be available in the USA and Europe later this year.
Finally a local range that is actually fashionable, wearable and most of all sustainable. Click here to shop online.
