BRENDA QUIN TALKS US THROUGH WHAT’S ON TREND FOR SUMMER, AND ALSO SHOWCASES HER FABULOUS COLLECTION FROM THE RECENT DURBAN FASHION FAIR, WRITES KATRINE ANKER-NILSSEN
Designed for women seeking high quality fashion that outlasts short-term trends and who like sophisticated contemporary silhouettes with timeless appeal, Diva is an independent fashion conscious label inspired by Ankara African Print and Shweshwe fabrics mixed with current other fabric prints.
“Diva is a growing independent business that cares about the individuals employed, we offer paid training and full-time employment to locally sourced talent. We work with other NGOs to help create our jewellery and other products which we have on offer,” says owner Brenda Quin – who actively promotes “conscious clothing” and is aware of how much impact local purchasing can make on families in South Africa.
“I am from Africa and my heart beats with the rhythm of Africa. I have been designing for over 20 years, and I have a passion for dressing women. I believe the strongest fashion statement any woman can make is expressing individuality. Boldness comes in many forms, and bold commitment to your own look, which you feel comfortable in, breeds confidence.”
This summer trends are filled with bright and bold colours. Prints are big, and they are here to stay. The new way of wearing prints is to mix it up. “Print clashes are for true fashionistas, clashing is a head-turning fashion statement,” says Brenda. “Break all the rules and mix it up!”
Another summer trend is the “all white trend”, always welcome as it creates a clean, fresh, simple, chic and sophisticated look.
Off the shoulder is also still very much on point, but just done a little differently. “Explore the diversity; one shoulder, asymmetrical, cut out cold shoulder,” says Brenda, adding that detailed statement sleeves are also in, along with lace floral prints and pastels.
“The much loved kimono is still on the racks, and floral prints are not going away this summer. Denim is a staple that’s here forever, and tie dye is another fun trend to look out for.”
Diva Designs offer all these trends, and a lot of the prints are designed in-house – which lends itself to exclusivity. “Diva caters for all shapes or sizes. We bring out the best in every woman, a unique individual, and help her feel confident and beautiful – knowing she is stepping out in style, a style that suits her figure type.”
The Diva Range
The Diva range epitomises the Brenda Quin style; drama with practicality. The vibrant and soulful designs truly emulate the spirit of Africa and define the client at the event of her choice. They are available from various leading retailers throughout South Africa and there are two online shops – garments are sold in America and the UK. Diva also caters for those looking for a personal creation for a special occasion.
STOCKISTS: The Space, DFF Emporium Mega City Umlazi, The Studio Kloof
www.divabybrendaquin.com; brenda@divabybrendaquin.com; 083 661 6333