Kgaugelo Sedutla, a 29-year-old fashion designer from Dan village in Tzaneen, is the creative force behind MOSAT M Clothing. Having graduated in 2021 from the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Fashion School, Kgaugelo embodies a passion to shine a light on the untapped talent in the local fashion scene.
The motivation to participate in Tzaneen Fashion Week stems from the desire to provide a platform where emerging designers can highlight their work, breaking through the under-recognised talent pool in the town. Unlike many designers who rely on technical drawings and mood boards for their collections, Kgaugelo takes a more intuitive approach, cutting and designing directly without extensive preparation. This process, rooted in natural creativity and spontaneity, allows for an authentic expression of style driven by the heart rather than rigid planning. Inspiration often flows from sources like Pinterest, where initial sketches may evolve or be replaced by fresh ideas, proving a flexible and organic design journey.
The application process for Tzaneen Fashion Week came via a simple online link, with Kgaugelo being selected among several designers to take part. The experience of being chosenbrings a mix of excitement and nerves, given the industry’s competitive nature and the pressure to leave a memorable impression that could aid in securing sponsors.
Kgaugelo’s signature design philosophy emphasises “African glamour,” looking to redefine perceptions by merging traditional fabrics with modern textiles to tell a story that glamour is not confined to only contemporary materials. These fusion honors cultural roots while enhancing the sophistication and visual appeal of each piece.
During rehearsals for the fashion show, Kgaugelo preferred working independently but connected well with the models, gaining insights into their personalities through seeing their runway presence. The collaborative energy with fellow designers was limited, reflecting a personal preference for creative space.
One reality of the fashion world is that readiness is fluid. Designers constantly tweak and add elements to their pieces up until the deadline, meaning true readiness only materialises at the final moment when the collection is complete. Challenges in the creative process often include occasional blocks and running out of fresh ideas. Overcoming these hurdles involves studying other fashion shows for inspiration, much like an athlete studying opponents to refine skills and strategies.
Looking ahead, Kgaugelo aims to grow the MOSAT M brand by building relationships with potential sponsors and media platforms, using exposure from events like Tzaneen Fashion Week to increase visibility. The support from the Limpopo Fashion Federation has been invaluable, with ongoing communication and encouragement that helps fine-tune preparations for the show. This support system plays a critical role in fostering confidence and collaboration among emerging designers.
What excites Kgaugelo about highlighting work is the element of drama, an essential ingredient that captivates audiences and brings collections to life. Participation in fashion week is both a growth opportunity and a stepping stone to becoming established as a standout designer in the industry.
To close the journey, the attitude is clear: “A hi tirheni”, standing firm and confident in one’s craft and cultural identity.
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