At a fashion show, all eyes are usually on the runway's flowing gowns and chic ensembles.
But at Sta-Sof-Fro Soweto Fashion Week, it was the dazzling, one-of-a-kind jewellery of Phindile Kotane, founder of PeachyPlum.rsa, that truly stole the spotlight.
Phindile’s journey into the world of jewellery design is as intriguing as her creations.
“My wearable art is something you’d wear at an event. It’s designed to elevate an outfit, adding a touch of extravagance yet maintaining elegance,” Phindile explains.
“Not all of them are very busy; we also have simplistic pieces that you can wear at work.”
Participating in Sta-Sof-FroSoweto Fashion Week marked a significant milestone for Phindile and her brand.
“Yes, it is the first time being a part of something this big! It’s quite big for me and my business,” she says, her excitement palpable. This event was not just a showcase but a statement, highlighting her ambition to stand out in an industry dominated by clothing.
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The inception of PeachyPlum.rsa in 2021 was born out of necessity and creativity. “When I started my business, I didn’t have money to buy proper jewellery-making supplies. I was using materials like Perspex but in a nice and fashionable way,” Phindile recalls.
Her resourcefulness paid off, and she began supplying shops with her distinctive pieces, gradually growing her brand.
Looking ahead, Phindile envisions her work gracing prestigious events and runways around the world.
“I want my work to be seen at events like SA Fashion Week, international fashion shows, and the Met Gala,” she declares.
Emphasizing her identity as a jewellery designer rather than a fashion designer, she adds, “You usually find clothes at fashion shows, but I want to stand out as a jewellery designer.”
Her aspirations extend to collaborating with iconic figures in the fashion industry. “I hope to work with the likes of David Tlale, Somizi – basically, people who like flamboyant things because our pieces are for people with flamboyant personalities,” she explains.
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Asked about where she draws her inspiration from, Phindile confidently says, “I inspire myself, even though people might find that weird. I always say yes, I’m a jeweller, but I’m just not your average.”
Despite her personal preference for simplicity, she creates extravagant pieces for those who seek bold expressions. “Inspiration just comes from within me; there’s no specific place.”
The 31-year-old Phindile’s foray into jewellery making was serendipitous.
“Honestly, when I was in high school, jewellery wasn’t something I wanted to get into. I never thought it existed,” she admits.
Initially aspiring to be a medical detective, she found her true calling after an unplanned gap year post-matric led her to diamond polishing and cutting.
“I absolutely loved it, but there was still a void. So, I started designing jewellery, and it wasn’t until I took my portfolio to school that I learned there was a course for it at UJ. That’s how I was introduced to jewellery making.”
Discover more of Phindile Kotane's stunning creations at her website, PeachyPlum.rsa, or reach out to her directly at 078 760 3305.
