The next Avant Garde dress Top 10 finalist we chat to is, aspiring yogi, Robyn Keyser from Fedisa.
Meet Robyn…
What was your initial reaction to hearing the news that you had made the cut?
My initial reaction was disbelief, my second was absolute delight.
Tell us a little more about your ‘RESILIENCE’ look. What inspired you?
My look is definitely inspired by my hippy mother who takes going green to the extreme. I was inspired by the idea of ‘Moss Graffiti’; the idea that art can be environmentally friendly without compromising on its impact and meaning. After researching examples of resilience in nature I was astounded by the incredible ability moss has to survive under the most extreme conditions. I was also inspired by its striking vivid colour and its beautifully soft texture.
What challenges have you experienced by adhering to the competition principles of upcycling and only using eco-friendly dyeing techniques?
Under normal circumstances, one designs first and then deals with the materials and means at your disposal. However, designing within this brief’s specifications and constraints meant these factors had to be considered very carefully and incorporated from the initial inception of the idea. Although this was initially a challenge, I soon fell in love with the idea of a creation that continues to grow and change appearance after it had be completed, and thus, I found the process refreshing and motivating.
One thing we should know about you as a designer?
I love textures! Especially wood, cork, paper and metal. My favourite designs always have an element of unexpected uses of materials. It’s invigorating as a designer to change people’s perceptions on ‘what it should look like” and “what it’s supposed to be used for”
What did you want to be growing up?
A ballerina of course! Though that dream soon shifted to becoming a famous soccer player (this dream was also short lived)
Name one local designer who inspires you? And internationally?
Currently my favourite local designer is Anisa from Loin Cloth and Ashes. Her designs do something that I find is very rare; they manage to combine international trends with the vibrant yet often hard to wear South African aesthetic seamlessly. She inspires me not to shy away from my culture and where I am from; she is proof that you do not need to follow what is in fashion abroad in order to create clothing that is relevant and current. Internationally I am inspired (and always have been) by Balmain. The intricacy and detail that goes into their designs is unmatched.
Do you currently make sustainable choices when it comes to fashion? What, in your view as a consumer, are the challenges to making sustainable fashion choices locally?
I don’t generally make sustainable fashion choices because I feel that they are not often feasible for me as a student as well as for most South Africans. I believe most consumers like the idea of sustainable fashion however, this usually means the price will be higher or they will be caught wearing clothes once they have gone out of fashion. Unfortunately, the fashion industry is environmentally harmful and excessive by nature; it will take a change in the approach to fashion of the designer as well as the consumer in order for this to change.
Why do you think there are so few ethically and eco- minded designers locally?
The simple answer is that it is easier to design without considering the impact you are having on the environment. Designers often opt for cheaper labour and cheaper materials which ultimately will produce a lower quality product. However, I believe designers are starting to awake their consciences and are responding to their moral obligations to create and not destroy.
I can’t start my day without…
Listening to Stevie Wonder- Higher Ground
Currently playing on your iPod…
Where is my mind- The Pixies (as always) but other than that, mostly my yoga music-it’s just that time of the year.
My own style is…
Undefinable as of yet. However, I love a good vintage bargain; my eye is often attracted to clothes with interesting textures. But mostly my style is a reflection of how I am feeling at that stage of my life.
Name 5 celebs (dead or alive) you would most like to invite over for a dinner party?
Oscar Wilde, Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu, Jimi Hendrix, Yoda, Andy Warhol, Sigmund Freud
Best advice you’ve ever been given?
My English teacher in matric once said rather try and fail than fail to try, because failure can be resolved but regret cannot.
Current obsession?
I took a trip to India in December and fell in love with the country, its people and its culture. I vowed to start yoga the second I returned. Granted it took me a few months, I am now a content and peaceful yogi. It’s a beautiful practice that ultimately allows you to still your mind and take time each day to appreciate life and put things into perspective. I think it’s important to take time to give your mind the chance to stop and be at peace. The unfortunate reality of our fast paced society is that this often is placed at the bottom of our priority list.
Top tip when it comes to upcycling?
Less is more. The most successful upcyling projects come from a simple idea and simple execution.
