Like all journeys, the road to becoming a successful fashion designer begins with a will. According to the Sivada sisters, Bianca and Kamara:
Even though we did not study fashion design we have always had a nichè for beautiful things. Designing and creating have always been a part of our nature.
Although they learned designing through trial and error , their brand VADA now has a huge following and well-deserved recognition. In the face of body shaming and conforming practices in the fashion industry, the South African duo run one of the biggest ready-to-wear brands in the country.
They admit to have struggled with finding stylish clothes that actually fit their body shapes so they decided to create their own fashion brand with pieces that celebrate the curvy fashionistas.
Of course the journey has been far from smooth; From magazine rejections, cash flow issues to people not believing in what we could accomplish. There are days when we want to give up but remaining faithful, humble and strong is key to success.
The sisters are focused on their plan to cater to every female size one day.
For this week’s Millenial Designer Spotlight, we corresponded with Bianca and Kamara to pick their brains and learn more about the beauties behind the brand.
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The Process
Both of us are a part of the design process from start to finish. However, Bianca usually tries on the samples before we approve and shoot it.
Favourite Part of Being Fashion Designers
Bianca: I don’t really consider myself a fashion designer. I have created a brand, I am an entrepreneur and that’s my favourite part of my job.
Kamara: Creating and seeing your vision come to life. You become more aware of yourself and others around you as everything is an influence on your designs.
Our design process is not like a typical fashion house. We do it our way. It usually consists of mood boards and lots of screenshots. It is very visual.
Trials
There have been so many ups and downs. Its been a long journey getting to where we are at now. From magazine rejections, cash flow issues to people not believing in what we could accomplish. There are days when we want to give up but remaining faithful, humble and strong is key to success.
The VADA woman
She is a woman of power and greatness. She values her worth from the inside out and knows that she is the masteress of her destiny. “She is clothed in dignity and laughs without fear of the future”
Design Inspiration
Queens, Goddesses and Muses such as Cleopatra inspire us. We envision what she would of worn if she lived in our time.
Trends
We definitely are aware of the trends but usually stick to the VADA brand essence and colour palette our designs are very feminine, figure sculpting and modern. We have a signature look and feel.
The Important Qualities a Fashion Designer Needs
Spirituality, Ambition, Vision and Humility.. with a hint of Kanye
Running a Fashion Brand in South Africa
The hardest part is that people are still not yet well informed in what supporting local businesses can do for our country. We are also very limited when it comes to fabrics and trims and sourcing it locally
Top 4 Favourite Designers
Versace, Chanel, Zuhair Murad, Michael Costello.
When They aren’t Designing…
Bianca: A glass of wine. I am very social and love visiting trendy hotspots in Cape Town.
Kamara: I am very into wellbeing and find my Zen by surrounding myself with fitness and nature or taking a crystal
salt bath with a cup of chamomile tea and honey.
Guilty Pleasures?
Bianca: Waffles, wine and truffle fries.
Kamara: I am a total foodie and wine.
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