Fashion On The Move – Down On the Streets

The street style phenomenon has hit the fashion world with a bang. And what better than photographing fashion in its purest and most raw form? This new “fashion genre” also creates the perfect trend forecast.

South Africa is no exception to this burst of media eye candy and where better than in arguably the most diverse nation on earth. This was the inspiration for my street style journey, South Africa’s eclectic fashion. And my playground – the streets of Cape Town. From the graffiti peppered alleys of Woodstock to those lined by colourful tiny rows of houses in Bo Kaap, beauty, innovation and personality abound.

From runway to real way the streets are the perfect indicator of the Spring/Summer 2014 trends. When it comes to contemporary fashion, the streets speak for themselves…

 What caught my attention on the street… 

The streets of Cape Town illustrate a fashion story filled with breezy feminine silhouettes- maxi skirts, skater skirts (let’s all pretend we have a tiny waist), contrasting neutrals and monochromatic indulgence, polished yet vibrantly coloured chinos (the brighter the fab-er), layering it up, sporty casual (and 100% chic), sparkles and liquid metallics, head to toe white, belly-baring tops, jodder pants, solid brights. At the other end of the spectrum- pastel hues, icy peppermint, powder pink and pale peach. When it comes to la visage, minimal make up with bright crimson or bold orange lips are "in".

(Left) Anton, 26, Actor from Hout Bay

You're style icon? Chad Saaiman

Your favourite local shop? Traffic.

Your favourite fashion trend at the moment? Black leather trousers.

(Right) Gal, 22, Owner of Good Company Events from Green Point
Your favourite local hangouts? Skinny Legs and All for good food after a casting. 

 What do you love most about Cape Town? Everything is beautiful. The scenery, the people, the weather, the activities and the food! It all never gets old...

 Who's style do you admire? I have a few friends who's style I admire for more casual wear but definitely Ryan Gosling and of course the one and only Jay Gatsby.

Jessica, 22, Sales Consultant from Three Anchor Bay.

What's on your wish list? A Celine Nano bag!
Who's your style icon? Olivia Palermo.
Your favourite trend at the moment? 
The skater shaped skirt and ankle strap heels.

John, 33, Artist, from Kloof.

Who inspires you? Brenda Fassie and Nelson Mandela.

Your favourite trend at the moment? Polka dots and tribal prints.

You never leave the house without? My bicycle. 

Odwa, 23, stylist from Cape Town.

Your most precious item in your closet? My Steve Madden Frankie boots.

What do you love most about fashion? Freedom of expression.

Your favourite trend at the moment? Monochrome.

Kayla, 22, marketing student from Rondebosch.

Your style icon? 

 That's a tough one but I would have to say Victoria Beckham.

Your favourite trend at the moment? Definitely high top sneakers because they give me the extra height and comfort! (This fashionista wears such high heels that she was carrying these sneakers in her bag...just in case!)

What do you love most about Cape Town? I love it's natural beauty, having the beautiful mountains and sea, and lets not forget the seaside sundowners.

My style journey has taught me that I don't follow one style, rather, each of my street style victims has a special energy and individuality that makes me approach them.

Everyone has a style story, let the photos speak for themselves.

-Style Genes by Cleopatra