Kokonut Stylist (KS) Launch

Hello FMZ Family,

On Saturday 29 November, the launch of the Kokonut Stylist rebrand and website took place at the Happy Valley Hotel and Resort poolside area in the scenic Ezulwini Valley, Swaziland. This affair had a theme of  “The Bold And The Beautiful”. I interpreted this theme in my outfit by juxtaposing classic black 50s silhouette with some bold statement pieces such as a pastel flower necklace. 

The poolside location provided a relaxed yet sophisticated setting for the launch. The program coordinator   was Frankie Dlamini, a well known socialite and fashion enthusiast in Swaziland. His outfit was a bold, colourful mix of feminine and masculine qualities and topped off with a vintage bag. His statement necklace and floral pants caught your attention. 

Within his role as an program coordinator, his exuberant personality added flair and humour to the event which started off quite intimately as many opted to be fashionably late. Frankie spiced things up with his French anecdotes, Wendy Williams impersonations and hilarious comments referencing style icons such as Coco Chanel and Vogue's Anna Wintour.

 Koko Shabangu, owner of Kokonut Stylist, looked chic and regal in a white high waisted tulle skirt. 

The energy between Frankie and Koko worked well in presenting the brand. Frankie became a live mannequin to fit the impressive pieces from the collection which the guests got to critique. It was very interactive. 

The clothes sampled were eye-catching, bold and well made. She showed some innovation in her detachable peplum items which could transform different outfits. Koko emphasized her belief in embracing your own individual style and having self-awareness other than just mindlessly copying trends. The items produced will not fall victim to mass production from what she said.

Present at the event was JeremPaul's Khulekani Msweli who we featured on the blog earlier this year. He brought along his JeremPaul mannequin (which freakishly seemed real). It was later dubbed Sebastian by Frankie.

Also present was Lindokuhle Mthupha, who is known for being the face of Sgonian Republik, a brand we have feautured on the blog. Fundzisile of the Zubani brand was also there along with Sasha Groening of FACE Modelling. 

Our Fashion Maverickz founder, Tiwi, was there in spirit. Tiwi's presence was felt by my presence (as we are a team) as well as her younger sister Chubo being in attendance. I got to make a little impromptu speech on our behalf. UrGal Zee also repped her by donning Tiwi's Closet SD. 

All in all, it was a wonderful experience to see people from the creative sphere in Swaziland come together and support the growing industry. It gives encouragement and validation that all that work is not in vain. 

We at FMZ show our support for Koko in this endeavor and will be watching to see her progress as we bring you more news. We encourage people to check out the website: www.kokonutstylist.com which be going live soon and get shopping 

Yours in fashion,

Khethiwe for FMZ