Bloggirls Q & A

Name: Buhle

Blog: FashionDiarysa

Who is Buhle Mabanga?
I am a 30-year-old mom, a wife, a fashion blogger, a fashion and jewellery designer; and the proud owner of a new clothing label called Fashion Diary. I’m a self-confessed fashion addict and shamelessly obsessed with Solange Knowles' eccentric style.

Describe your fashion style and what inspired it?
I would describe my style as bold, colourful and eccentric. Fashion for me should be fun and playful. I love trends, but I make them my own.

Are there any local websites or blogs that you visit daily?
Yes of course. Tony Gum, Eleighs Kist, Miss Milli, The Mannequin blog, Baked the blog and Miss Molly. I think our local bloggers are incredibly talented and their blogs are at an international level. Fashion blogs have a massive impact on the fashion industry. Fashion is trend-driven and fashion blogs provide a new way to follow and oversee the fast pace of trends.

Who do you have in mind when designing your clothes?
The women in my life are always at the back of mind when I’m designing. I have three sisters, sister-in-laws, a mother, a mother-in-law, aunts, childhood friends and, of course, my friends in fashion and fashion bloggers. I have to say though, I like women who have a somewhat aggressive sense of mystery about themselves. That to me is incredibly inspiring. That said, I’ve realised my designs are not for everyone. I think it would be naive and a little arrogant of me to assume that my pieces or aesthetic can suit everyone.

Do you believe in choosing style over comfort?
I think there is a time and place for everything. Comfort is very important to me, especially since I have a very energetic four-year-old and I am an active person in general. However, there are times when a girl has to put on those six-inch heels and a bandage dress. There’s nothing wrong with that, as long as it’s not your daily style.

Who would you like to dress and why?
It would have to be Gail Nkoane from The Wild. The woman oozes elegance and femininity.

If you were not a fashion designer what would you do?
To be honest with you, there is absolutely nothing else I would do but fashion. I’ve been blessed to be able to convert something I’m so passionate about into a legitimate business.

What is your favourite item in your wardrobe right now?
It has to be the very first dress I designed - the animal print wrap dress. Seeing it come to life was a surreal moment for my team and I. I still receive enquiries for that dress.

If money was not an issue what would you add to your wardrobe right now?
Two words, Hermes Birkin! Those bags scream POWER.

When you are not blogging or designing clothes what do you do?
Probably at my son’s swimming and soccer lessons or at Parkhurst 4th Avenue with friends observing the incredible fashion sense that people have.

If you were to travel anywhere in the world where would you go?
I’m passionate about travelling and have loads of plans for it. My sister is getting married in France next year, that will be my first European stop.