unattainable style

The concepts of style, class and fashion are so subjective and have such varied meanings for so many people that I don’t think one can ever really pin point the standard. let me put in a disclaimer: I DO NOT think of myself as a style icon, like every other gal in these streets I would like to believe that I can dress well enough to walk around in public without embarrassing myself, however I’m more the jeans, no actually, sweat pants and t-shirt kind of girl. I would have a meltdown if oversized cardigans and leggings went out of fashion. My style inspiration starts with comfort. I know about fashion, I mean I’m a very enthusiastic watcher of E Entertainment however I’m not really interested, let me rephrase that, I’m not interested enough to have it be a focus in my world. If I had it my way, black would be the only colour I wear, yes even to weddings. I’m not gothic at least I try not to be but I live in black.

This does not mean that I do not recognise or appreciate the ladies in my life who put in an extra effort when it comes to their "style". I will not talk about celebrities’ coz I don’t know those people. Have no idea what they look like when they don’t have a glam team and stylist. I will talk however about what I know.

My cousin Rhandzu is for me the definition of class she carries herself with a certain air of self-assuredness. She seems to radiate from her soul that she cannot be shook, she is not moved by what is happening outside of herself. She is strong and always has my back regardless of the circumstance. We call her “the mother” that nickname best describes who she is, she is organic, down to earth and real. Maybe this comes from her ancestors who are Lemba and Venda royalty. She has always dressed well and always looks like she is camera ready, always polished always regal.

Tsietsi and Snikiwe are to me relaxed elegance. I remember growing up, my cousin Tseitsti was the most beautiful person I had ever seen. She has always looked like the kind of people one sees on TV lol. As we grow up I have come to realise that her beauty comes from beyond the way she looks. It is also about her soul, she is kind and loving and all about family. My sister in-law Snikiwe is the same way. These characteristics seem to shine through in how both these ladies dress. They are elegant but attainable, they can almost be described as easy going, if it’s possible to be easy going in Gucci and Chanel.

Thembani is trendy, she is like a loud burst of colour and flavour. She loves to look good and ensures that her favourite accessories aka her son and husband look equally as good as she does. She is young and energetic and that shows in her fashion. The first time I ever took notice of her she was wearing a Missy Elliot Adidas track suit and I remember thinking "now that girl must be brave"

These are the women who are to me the closest thing to a fashion icons. When I grow up and stop wearing camo jackets and converse I would like to be one of them. Till then may I please be excused lol