Image by: Veli Nhlapho
When you think of wearable art that is inspired by the continent of Africa, Ole Ledimo comes to mind. He started his fashion brand, House of Olé so that this spirit and way of creating, not only captures the imagination and intrigue of fashion lovers in South Africa, but the world over.
The young designer has his roots and inspiration firmly on the African soil. Taking inspiration from South Africa’s heritage when it comes to expressing and embracing street style crafting which knows no bounds and can ignite an audience from Jozi to Jaipur.
As a part of the trio of designers that have joined forces with ISUZU to create bold VentureGear designs that are Fashionable Everywhere, Ole aims to further intrench his signature style that marries design elegance with the practicality of everyday use.
In this conversation, he gives us a glimpse into how and why fashion became his purpose in life.
Q&A
1. What first drew you to fashion?
I believe that purpose proceeds design, meaning “there was, I am” I like to think that I’m good at including fashion stems from my purpose in life. I was born to create, design and solve problems in the most artistic way possible. When I do it, I fell God’s glory.
2. What were some of your earliest design influences?
Both my maternal and paternal family are very stylish, looking at old pictures somehow solidified and validated my craft and dreams of being a designer. I Remember in my early memories at my primary school, I was a very naughty child, we used to draw pictures of the teachers etc and one day in my naughty moments I was given a punishment to draw the school logo and to this day the school is still using the logo.
3. Can you say that your design philosophy has changed over the years. If yes, how?
I’d like to believe that my design philosophy and aesthetic has evolved over the years, and the more I do the better I get at building a solid brand and company. It takes time and I feel there’s more I have to offer.
4. What is the one thing you wish you knew earlier about the fashion industry?
There’s power in mentorship and the fact that in fashion, business design is not just a department, but a lifestyle - it’s what you do every day.
5. In terms of fashion, how do you feel the year 2024 has been, from both a global and local perspective?
Fashion is becoming more and more inclusive, we can even see that with different ages, body shapes and colour of models. Also, silhouettes have more volume and are much free and expressive.
6. What is the one piece of advice you would give to anyone looking to get into the fashion design industry?
The two most important things in building a fashion business, is creativity and commitment to your business and brand. Success is a journey and never a destination, so you never arrive.
7. How did you get into the position to work with ISUZU?
Through my many years of relationship with the biggest and most consistent Fashion Week in the continent, SA Fashion Week.
8. Can you share a bit on what the public can expect from your ISUZU AW 2025 collection at Fashion Week?
Fun. Colour. Unexpected prints and off course wearable Art
9. Are there any links/associations with the ISUZU brand and philosophy that we will be able to see in your AW 2025 collection?
Versatility. Iconic & progressive designs and inclusive (It’s for everyone)
10. What is the long-term goal for your brand?
Having a global footprint and to open a fashion school.
Join ISUZU at SA Fashion Week AW25 on Friday, 27 September 2024 at Melrose Arch.
