The MAG weekly Blog by Lydia, every Friday 1700 hrs. Nr 71 27th October 2023

A MAG is a Modern African Girl, so no subject is taboo. My purpose is to share things which may interest a MAG.

This week's contributors: Lydia, Doré Fasolati, this week's subjects: South African Fashion Week 2023 Embracing Heritage, Innovation, and Sustainability, Capitol Cafe and Restaurant, Champagne corks.

South African Fashion Week 2023 Embracing Heritage, Innovation, and Sustainability South African Fashion Week is an annual event that serves as a platform for showcasing the country’s unique fashion talent and creativity. In 2023, this highly anticipated event promises to be a celebration of South African culture, heritage, and sustainable fashion practices. In this blog post, we will delve into the exciting highlights and trends that will grace the runways of South African Fashion Week 2023.

Cultural Heritage and Diversity: South Africa is a country rich in cultural diversity, and this will be prominently reflected in the designs showcased at South African Fashion Week 2023. Designers will draw inspiration from the country’s diverse ethnic groups, incorporating traditional elements and techniques into their collections. Expect to see vibrant prints, intricate beadwork, and traditional textiles like shweshwe and isiShweshwe, paying homage to the country’s cultural heritage. Sustainable Fashion:As the fashion industry continues to prioritize sustainability, South African Fashion Week 2023 will showcase the country’s commitment to eco-friendly practices. Designers will present collections that utilize organic and recycled materials, promote ethical production methods, and embrace slow fashion principles. This emphasis on sustainability will highlight South Africa’s dedication to preserving the environment and promoting responsible consumerism. Afrofuturism a movement that combines African culture, history, and technology, will make its mark at South African Fashion Week 2023. Designers will explore futuristic aesthetics, incorporating elements of science fiction, fantasy, and technology into their designs. Expect to see innovative silhouettes, metallic accents, and avant-garde accessories that reimagine traditional African fashion in a modern and forward-thinking way.

Gender Fluidity and Inclusivity: South African Fashion Week 2023 will continue to champion diversity and inclusivity on the runway. Designers will challenge gender norms by presenting gender-fluid collections that blur traditional boundaries. Expect to see a range of silhouettes, fabrics, and styles that cater to a diverse range of body types and gender identities. This celebration of inclusivity will reinforce South Africa’s position as a leader in promoting diversity in the fashion industry. Collaborations and Cross-Cultural Exchanges: South African Fashion Week 2023 will serve as a platform for collaborations and cross-cultural exchanges. Designers from different backgrounds and regions will come together to showcase their unique perspectives and creative visions. Expect to see exciting collaborations between South African designers and international fashion houses, resulting in collections that blend global influences with local craftsmanship.

South African Fashion Week 2023 promises to be a captivating showcase of the country’s fashion talent, cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainability. With a focus on embracing diverse cultures, promoting sustainable fashion practices, and celebrating inclusivity, this event will highlight the unique and innovative spirit of South African fashion. As we eagerly anticipate the unveiling of these trends, let us celebrate the creativity and craftsmanship that South Africa brings to the global fashion stage.

Capitol Cafe and Restaurant at Cantonment 5th Circular Road used to serve my favourite noodles with assorted meats, shrimps and calamari. But this time the beef was old, refried, burned, and reheated, the chicken was dry, and I counted a total of 3 shrimps, but no calamari at all. I guess to compensate for all this they added so much salt that in fact it was inedible. We also had a salad which was bitter and had no dressing to talk about. The chips were soft, a sort of cooked potatoes. The spring rolls with cheese looked more like lasagna. Amidst these evening spoilers came a surprisingly juice boneless chicken tie which I would recommend if only I was sure that the quality was consistent. As for the service, they tried, but as so often, when billing time came it became messy, having to wait whilst the waiters were watching football and arguing and shouting amongst themselves. No. And, looking at the bill I noted that we still pay 1 % into the Covid fund and I wonder what our democratically elected government does with that.

Champagne corks and the same applies to Prosecco, Sect, and other bubbly wines. As your drink is under pressure the bottle is thicker than an ordinary wine bottle and there is a wiring at the top to stop the cork from coming out. Once you remove that wire the cork sometimes starts coming out on its own, sometimes it needs some help, and then, Pop, the celebration noise. If you're not careful half the bottle can then empty itself with a lot of foam. But sometimes all you get is a mini pssss, no pop. The reason is that the bottle has been stored for too long, the cork has become old and has lost its flexibility and hence its sealing power, and most of the zip has slowly seeped out. That type of cork does not expand after opening the bottle, as the one on the left, above. The one on the right is medium ok, with a really fresh bottle the expansion is even more. So if you are going to spend good money on a bottle of bubble wine you'd better buy it at a shop which has a regular turnover and where if necessary you could go back to show them the dead cork and zipless bottle and get a replacement. (I haven’t tried that one yet...)

Lydia...

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