Flying the flag for KwaZulu-Natal this month is non-other than the 29 year-old Durbanite Noni Gasa. This one-time fashion journalist for Glamour is in high demand all over the place it would seem. From being called to lecture at the LISOF (London International School of Fashion), to judging a new DStv reality TV model search called Diamond In The Ruff, she still finds time to do work as commercial stylist and fashion writer. LEGiT tracked her down to find out what makes fashion sense in her fast-paced world.
Describe your personal style.
The word style is my personal acronym for "Stay True [to] Yourself [and] Look Effortless". I believe that less is more! My style is an extension of my personality: accessible, universal, vibrant, classy and classic. Some might say, "old school" too.
Who inspires your style?
It's not really "who", but more like "what". I draw inspiration from art and interesting prints like geometric, ethnic and vintage patterns. I'm not a big fan of loud, “rainbow fashion”, but a splash of colour never hurt anyone.
Which beauty or style tip do you live by?
The purpose of make-up is simply to enhance one's natural features, so I always keep mine minimal and fresh. A generous coat of mascara, winged eyeliner, rosy cheeks and a nude gloss are my perfect combination! I like to finish it off with a dewy look, so I'll often spritz some Vitamin E Face Mist from The Body Shop.
What is your favourite local holiday destination?
I'm a Durban girl, so beach holidays have always been my perfect idea of fun. I like calm waters though, so places like Knysna and Kosi Bay are the absolute best! Every so often I'll head up north to Mozambique for their crystal clear waters, slow-paced living and those legendary fish braais.
Where are you heading this December?
Unfortunately I cannot plan my holidays far ahead of time due to my ever-changing work commitments. When you work for yourself (like I do), it's difficult to turn opportunities away. Anything might happen at any time, so I need to ensure I'm available to my clients, even whilst all my friends and family are chilling.
What are your top five holiday wardrobe must-haves?
"Utility" is the keyword for my summer wardrobe. Clothes must be funky yet functional, simple yet sophisticated.
If you were stranded on a desert island, which fashion essential would you miss the most?
Well, if gadgets were considered a fashion accessory, then I'd miss my new Blackberry Playbook (tablet) the most. I can spend hours on that thing, just playing around with the fancy features.
Describe your last fashion faux pas.
I was MC'ing a function recently, arrived at the venue, fitted my wardrobe that had been sourced for me, and realised that I didn't have the right underwear to wear with that bare-back dress. I spent the entire time on stage feeling paranoid that everyone was staring at my chest and not into my eyes!
Do you have an item in the back of your wardrobe that you’ll never wear?
I have a few, actually. But even the ugly pieces hold sentimental value to me, so I hoard them till they gather dust and, hopefully, someday someone comes along to rescue them.
Photo credit: Pierre van den Bosch
