The Visionary Journey of Kireshen Chetty: A Fashion Innovator
In the vibrant world of fashion, few voices resonate as powerfully as that of Kireshen Chetty. A self-taught designer and the recent recipient of the prestigious Fashion Innovator Award at the DFF Recognition Awards, Chetty embodies the spirit of creativity and individuality. His philosophy is clear: “People try to fit you into a box. Long ago, I realised that I wasn’t going to do ready-to-wear fashion. People aren’t going to come to me for a simple cocktail dress or shorts and a shirt. They’re going to come for more dramatic couture.” This statement encapsulates his commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining what fashion can be.
A Passionate Collection
This year, Chetty decided to fully immerse himself in his collection, emphasizing that his goal was not merely to win an award but to express his artistic vision. “So much of me went into this collection, and I think that’s why it turned out the way that it did,” he remarked. The collection featured elements of hard corsetry familiar from his previous works, but it also introduced innovative bowl silhouettes. The theme, “The Awakening,” was a profound exploration of emotion, beginning with stark black tones and gradually introducing vibrant colors, culminating in a striking red flame that served as the showstopper.
Roots in Pietermaritzburg
Chetty’s journey into the world of fashion began in his childhood in Pietermaritzburg, where his family’s background played a significant role in shaping his interests. His father ran a construction business, while his mother, a fashion design graduate, crafted much of the family’s clothing. This environment fostered Chetty’s early love for design. “As I grew older, I would always alter my clothes to get a better fit. Then I started making things for my sister, a few of my cousins, and friends,” he shared, highlighting the grassroots nature of his creative journey.
From Architecture to Fashion
While Chetty initially pursued a career in architecture, his passion for fashion never waned. His formal introduction to the fashion world came when the Max School of Fashion at Gateway invited him to showcase a small collection. This opportunity allowed him to create his first formal collection, which was heavily influenced by Eastern aesthetics and utilized recycled materials, including vintage saris. His innovative approach earned him the JSE Young Designer of the Year award in 2011, but the path was not without its challenges.
Navigating the Fashion Landscape
As Chetty navigated the fashion industry, he encountered mixed messages about his self-taught background. Despite being told he could not participate in major Fashion Weeks due to his lack of formal qualifications, he redirected his focus toward designing for horse racing events, particularly the prestigious Durban July. His success in this arena, including multiple awards from 2014 to 2018, garnered attention from the KZN Fashion Council, leading to an invitation to participate in the DFF as an emerging designer in 2016.
A Rising Star
Chetty’s presence at the DFF has been consistent, showcasing collections annually except for 2018 when he competed in the reality television show, Project Runway South Africa. His designs have attracted the attention of celebrities, including the cast of ‘The Kandasamys’ television series and notable figures like Mishqah Parthiephal and Maria Valaskatzis from The Real Housewives of Durban. This recognition underscores his growing influence in the fashion landscape.
The Intersection of Architecture and Fashion
One of the most fascinating aspects of Chetty’s work is the intersection of architecture and fashion. He believes that both fields share a structural essence. “Even if you look at my work, it is very influenced by architecture. My work is very avant-garde, very futuristic. For me, both are creative fields about which I am passionate. They are art forms,” he explained. This unique perspective allows him to approach fashion design with the same meticulousness and creativity he applies to architecture.
Evolving with the DFF
Chetty acknowledges that his career has evolved alongside the DFF, a platform he describes as unparalleled in South Africa. “When I started with the DFF in 2016, I was a lot younger. I was still learning. It’s a process. We’re still evolving,” he reflected. The support provided by the DFF, from show production to lighting, has been instrumental in his growth as a designer. He appreciates the collaborative energy and creativity fostered by the relationships built around this event.
A Commitment to Future Collections
Looking ahead, Chetty is committed to continuing his journey with the DFF, eager to showcase his evolving artistry. His passion for fashion and dedication to innovation promise to keep him at the forefront of the industry, inspiring others to embrace their unique visions and break free from conventional molds.
