Winging it in the fashion world

‘SAMANTHA’s design concept is out the box!’

These words of praise from world-renowned costume and lingerie designer Dax Martin, were directed to 15-year-old local lass Samantha du Toit after she snatched first place in a prestigious costume design competition.

Samantha, a model, competitive swimmer and pupil at the Richards Bay Christian School, soared high above her competition with an eye-capturing wing design for male and female training and racing costumes.

Martin, who judged the event, has showcased his designs nationally and internationally – at the Miss World Pageant, Miss SA Pageant, Elite Model Search, MNet Face of Africa and Cape Town Fashion Week – to mention but a few.

Yet, young Samantha’s unique creation captivated the Durban-based designer who is no stranger to glossy magazines and high fashion ramps.

‘This is what we are looking for – it will make you stand out at an event.

‘What we are going to do is incorporate the wings, using the same feel throughout the costumes styles, including the hoodie.

‘We have taken the concept as a whole, as it is not what most other clubs would do, and will marry it with all the styles.’

Samantha has been swimming competitively since 2010 and joined the Fish Eagles Swimming Club in May.

She is currently competing in the level 1 championships in Durban and is thus an expert in identifying the qualities of fashionable, quality swimwear from an athlete’s point of few. Her inside knowledge has paid off.

‘I have always dreamed of being a fashion designer and when a competition was held by our club to design both racing and training costumes for boys and girls, I had to give it a go,’she says.

‘I absolutely loved seeing the costume come to life on the swimmers in the water and I was glad to see how much my swimming team and their parents enjoyed it.

‘I have also recently designed my friend’s matric dance dress, which she is now having made, and I am really excited to see it.

‘I would love to one day have my own clothing line of bridal and or evening wear and maybe a costume line.

‘As a model I enjoy being part of fashion shows and doing photo shoots.

‘It has really given me an inside look to how busy it is being a fashion designer and the stresses that come with having your own line.’

Sam, as she is known to her nearest and dearest, has a humble heart and knows where her strength lies.

‘None of what I have achieved so far in life would have been possible if it were not for all the love and support I have received from my family and friends.

‘They are always there for me.’