SAFW A/W15 - Gert-Johan Coetzee

Gert-Johan Coetzee's latest collection at SA Fashion Week places the spotlight on HIV awareness in South Africa. SA still has one of the highest infection rates globally and most of these are women. Gert-Johan Coetzee wanted to remind us of this health crisis through his new collection. 'We're all so used to the red AIDS ribbon that we might not register its message any longer, so I wanted to create new imagery to inspire us to look at HIV with new eyes,' he said about this collection.

The collection blended abstract prints (inspired by what the virus looks like through a microscope) with the symbolism of armour and protection to be shielded against HIV - seen with the brass plate detail used on many pieces. The collection evoked easy femininity blended with some old-world glamour for some of the more decorative pieces. We moved through all of the colours seen under the African Sky from dusky blues and greens to warmer tones and then ending with dramatic blacks and reds with bejewelled detail.

Asymmetrical cape detail on these dresses added some drama
Photo: Simon Deiner / SDR Photo

Girlish elegance
Photo: Simon Deiner / SDR Photo

The HIV virus as seen under a microscope
This abstract print is seen here on Miss SA, Rolene Strauss
Photo: Simon Deiner / SDR Photo 

Flowing high-waisted skirts added flair
while armoured dresses reminded us of
powerful women able to shield themselves
Photo: Simon Deiner / SDR Photo

Jay Anstey proudly displayed the
show-stopper of the collection
Photo: Simon Deiner / SDR Photo