South African finalist from the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University: Elizabeth Faber

Elizabeth Faber is a design student at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University, and one of the South African finalists in the 2008 Triumph International Inspiration Awards. Spending every spare minute during high school scribbling designs on any sheet of paper she could get her hands on, Faber’s passion grew with each passing day. The journey from design concept to holding the finished product in her hands feeds her inspiration, excited by every step of the process.

Faber says that the key to a show stopping design is subtlety, with garments designed to flatter the figure. Determined to bring originality and creativity to the fashion table, Faber focuses on the detail and aspects of clothing that she loves – flares, gathers and beautiful necklines.

Nature is Faber’s greatest source of design inspiration, offering a vast array of colours and contrasts. When putting pencil to paper, all you need to do is look at the natural beauty of world - from sunrise to sunset and the blossoming mornings to star studded nights.

When Faber’s lecturer informed the class that the Triumph Inspiration Awards would be incorporated into their third year creative portfolio at University, her imagination went into overdrive. Determined to give it her all, Faber thought about what elements would make her lingerie design stand out. In keeping with her design style, Faber’s garment is classic and timeless with a hint of sophistication. Incorporating a youthful flare making a statement about who you are and what you want, combined with a mature element of grace. As with all Faber’s designs, the overriding element being on emphasising the natural beauty within. Faber hopes to gain exposure from the Triumph Inspiration Awards, and to start making her mark in the industry.

Faber is inspired by international designer Isabella Capeto, saying that Capeto’s designs show a true understanding of the words: woman, girl, pretty, cute, stunning and flowing. On a local level, Faber looks up to Malcolm Kluk and Christiaan Gabriel du Toit. Honoured to have completed a two month internship with these acclaimed designers, Faber learnt invaluable lessons about the industry and what it takes to really make it in the fashion business.