17 Nov 2019

As everyone wait eagerly for what’s in store for them in President’s 2019 State of the Nation Address (SONA), fashionistas’ expectations are high too, to witness what the legislators especially the youthful ones forming the 12 Parliament will be rocking on the red carpet, come November 18!

Over the years fashion has found its place on SONA red carpet with the media playing fashion police, a trait adopted by some members of the public.

While the stages are being set, designers are busy working on apparels, likely to make fashion statements on the day!

During SONA social media becomes abuzz as fashion conscious citizens post comments about the worst and best dressed on the day. 

Both politicians and their spouses’ outfits are evaluated. 

This year stakes are high for youthful politicians to raise the bar by displaying their fashion dexterity.

Policymakers have already made an impression during the President’s inauguration and Members of Parliament swearing in, events which were live on television.

Their outfits stole the limelight as fashion police rated some a dash or drab, given such most will definitely go out to redeem their fashion essence.

Slim fit suits are a definite for younger male vibrant politicians who have already veiled to embrace modern lifestyle, whilst the elderly crop seems to be comfortable in their modern fit.

In an enquiry with designers it became apparent that fashion is slowly becoming a serious business in most events.

“The future of fashion in our country is taking shape and expectations are high with young legislators,” noted local fashion designer Thabiso Dibeela.

Dibeela said a lot needed to be done in terms of fashion especially in giving guidance to styling and putting together an outfit, both dress and accessories.

While most people are in to colour, Dibeela said SONA was about corporate elegance.

“Remember this is not a wedding, hence the need of sophistication must be toned down,” she said adding that people should take note of certain fabrics and their body shapes especially ladies.

Dibeela said ladies should avoid flowers and invest in comfortable ladies’ block heels.

 “Block heels are trending and come in various stylish colors, therefore ladies need to invest in them for appeal and endurance when walking and standing,” Dibeela said.

To the gentlemen, Dibeela advised on the perfect cut and fit.

“Nothing much can be said except that they should chose the perfect fit according to their age as well as skin tone,” said Dibeela.

She further noted that plain shirts and ties are expected among the legislatures. “Plain shirts make a better look than striped ones on a formal suit,” she said. Ends