By: Brooklyn Expression Staff
(video via Jason Lee Digital)
Nelson Mandela celebrated his 94th birthday on Wednesday, July 18th, in style with the launch of the 466/64 Fashion in the U.S and Canada. Inspired by the life and legacy of Mandela, 466/64 held an exclusive press conference and miniature fashion show presenting the line to selective media personnel and fashion icons. With the launch of the line in South Africa in 2011, 466/64 had the vision to go global, and on Wednesday, their dream became a reality.
via cbsnews.com.
The only thing more important than the launch of this line on that day was the cause behind it. “The true purpose is to build a fashion brand connected with passion & purpose,” said Erin Patton, CEO of Company b. 466/64 Fashion is a product of the collaboration of the American firm, Company b, and South Africa’s Brand ID, a textile manufacturer. Certainly, there have been fashion brands that have advocated charity in recent years (the shoe maker Tom’s seems to be one of the best examples), but never before has there been a line that carries the social capital of 466/64. While Nelson Mandela and fashion are not exactly synonymous, they come together in the best of ways with 466/64. Wayne Bebb, CEO of Brand ID, describes the line as a “commitment to social good.” The line draws inspiration from Mandela, and the continent on which he made his mark; the name of the line itself holds great significance, as it was Mr. Mandela’s prison number at the Robben Island prison in South Africa (466 indicates his inmate number, while 64 indicates the year in which he was imprisoned).
South African natives were in attendance; including the South African Consulate General, George Monyemangene, and multi-platinum South African recording artist, Lira. Poised and passionate, Lira spoke of South Africa’s transition from apartheid into a free nation and shared the story of how the new republic gave her the opportunity to reevaluate her life and move forward. Serving as a celebrity spokesperson for 466/64 along with model, Sam Sarpong, Lira is proud to be a part of such a brand. Also in attendance was Phillip Bloch, celebrity stylist and host of ABC World News Now- Cause Celeb, who described the brand as a way to reach the younger generation and raise their awareness of South Africa. “It’s important [for kids] to see the world through fashion and music,” he said. “They understand these elements better.”
The essence of Africa was captured during the mini fashion show, as vibrant colors and eclectic patterns were seen on the runway. Cool summer blues and mint greens along with incredibly detailed design made for a chic and modern look. The Mandela hand print, used as the brand logo, represents its dedication to Mandela’s humanitarian legacy. 466/64 Fashion is set to launch in 23 countries between 2012 and 2013 in hopes of spreading not only their unique pieces but also their inspiring message. Bebb, having high expectations for the line, says that “[i]t will be a global fashion brand that will be taken seriously around the world,” and with the combination of innovative style and Mandela’s ideals, it is hard not to be optimistic.
brooklynexpression 