The Bernina 2023 competition final, culminated in five finalists being selected nationally, from 95 entries from more than eight tertiary institutions from around South Africa.
In a sew-off (in the style of “Project Runway”), the five finalists were briefed to create outfits from scratch, over a period of four days.
The well-known fashion designer, Gert-Johan Coetzee, did the judging and he was particularly impressed with how the students interpreted the theme of the competition.
The competition co-ordinator also praised the University students and staff for the entrants’ exceptional pattern making skills.
Yaaseen (far left) and Jan-Hendrik’s prizes consist of Bernina products, including sewing machines and overlockers, to the value of R82 000 and R52 000, respectively.
We look forward to seeing their final-year ranges, to be showcased in a graduate show in a few weeks’ time, said Tyrone James from the Fashion Design Department.