As the showing of the SA Fashion Week AW2025 collections draws nearer. An assortment of creatives will once again get the opportunity to showcase their labours of creativity to varying audiences. For fashion designer, Belinda Venter, from the brand Belhauzen, the upcoming showing in late September will once again afford her the opportunity to share with the attending audiences and the public at home her brand’s philosophy of “shop consciously, live in sustainable luxury”.
The fashion design creative is collaborating with motoring brand ISUZU SA to bring fashion spectators her rendition of what it means to be Fashionable everywhere.
Now, join us as we delve into what inspires her keen sense of design style and what future she sees for Belhauzen.
Q&A
1. What are some of your earliest fashion influences?
Since being a very small little girl, my sister used to do modelling where she always had different themed catwalks, and I used to find a love and excitement in styling her and coming up with creative ideas to make her stand out in her modelling shows. I styled her in anything from glamourous gowns to Flintstones, Indians, athleisure, and many more creative designs. As I grew older, I found a love in the simplicity and elegance of “Chanel”. Global warming inspired me to move in the sustainable direction and explore innovative ways to make fashion not only stylish, but also taking care of our environment & its people. I believe that there is always a way to do things better and be more conscious.
2. Do you think a person can be taught to have an eye for stylish design or is it something that would inherently be in their nature?
I think it’s a bit of both. Some people are naturally born with an eye for design, but it also can be taught through education, experience, and learning the skills.
3. How did you think local fashion is doing in comparison to some of the global markets?
I don’t think we should ever discount local fashion. I believe we have so much talent locally that we are not far behind global markets anymore as in previous eras. Local fashion standards have increased immensely and so have the skills of our people. Local fashion has a unique and dynamic presence and top craftmanship. Many local designers are making strides by embracing global trends while staying true to their roots. The key is finding that balance and leveraging local strengths to make a mark internationally.
4. Do you believe in adapting to trends or charting your own looks, despite of what is currently fashionable?
I think it's important to find a balance. While staying aware of trends can inform and inspire, it’s crucial to maintain a sense of individuality and authenticity. I prefer to interpret trends in a way that aligns with my design philosophy rather than following them slavishly. This approach ensures that my collections remain relevant yet distinct.
5. What role did sustainability play in the design process for this collection, if any?
Sustainability was a significant consideration for 'Sakura Drive.' I focused on using eco-friendly materials and processes, such as organic cotton and recycled fabrics, to minimize environmental impact. For example, my tracksuits are made from 100% organic cotton, while my gym wear are 100% made from recycled plastic bottles. Additionally, I aimed to create versatile pieces that encourage longevity and reduce waste. Sustainability is an ongoing journey, and I strive to continually improve my practices with each collection.
6. Were there any materials or techniques that you found especially exciting or challenging?
As this is my first VentureGear collection, I loved exploring new techniques and fabrics such as a recycled fabric that I found suitable for the gym wear which is 100% made from recycled plastic bottles. These fabrics are durable, breathable and an added advantage to our environment, so I absolutely love that we can recycle and make it even better and stylish. I also enjoyed exploring branding designs and prints and challenged myself to create innovative designs, exploring a new division of BELHAUZEN in Venture Gear and making it all 100% sustainable & stylish.
7. Are your designs ever inspired by any cultural or local influences that you intentionally integrated into the collection to showcase a sense of place or identity?
I typically design for my client. It is their personality, vision, and character which influence me. In this collection specifically, ISUZU was my inspiration. I dived deep into researching the ISUZU brand and found my inspiration from Japan (which is the birthplace of ISUZU). That became my core design element, founding the beauty of the Japanese cherry blossoms and blending that with the dynamic elegance of ISUZU.
8. How did you get to work with ISUZU?
This season, ISUZU hosted a competition in collaboration with SA Fashion Week, open to all SA Fashion Week Designers, where we were given the opportunity to design for ISUZU. The brief included creating a VentureGear Collection, which featured 5 ISUZU branded looks where we had to use the ISUZU logo in innovative ways. I entered my portfolio with full designs, sketches, collection mood board and details, and was chosen as one of the top 3 finalists. The journey so far has been incredible working with ISUZU, and I love every second of creating this collection.
9. What can audiences look forward to in your AW 2025 ISUZU collection showing at Fashion Week?
Audiences can expect a fusion of cutting-edge design and luxurious functionality. BELHAUZEN’s AW25 collection will build on the theme of 'Sakura Drive,' incorporating bold colours, sophisticated silhouettes, and innovative materials. It will also feature new design elements inspired by ISUZU, reflecting a seamless blend of fashion and engineering excellence.
10. Do you think there’s a link between the car a person drives and the clothes they wear?
I do see a link between personal style and the car we drive. Both reflect aspects of one's identity and values. Just as a car can symbolize sophistication, performance, or sustainability, the clothes we choose often communicate similar values and personal aesthetics. It’s a way of expressing who we are and how we want to be perceived.
Join ISUZU at SA Fashion Week AW25 on Friday, 27 September 2024 at Melrose Arch.
