Jenine Chanel David talks Emerald Gold

The Durban Fashion Fair is just around the corner! We caught up with Jenine Chanel David, who will be showing her line Emerald Gold for the first time at the DFF, which runs 21 - 24 August. 

Tell me more about your Durban Fashion Fair Collaboration with Kyle Curtis Pillay of Dark Lion 
Kyle and I have a long standing friendship, and have decided to collaborate for the upcoming Durban Fashion Fair. He already has an established company in the printing and social media industry and I am making inroads in the fashion industry. The Durban Fashion Fair 2014 will be a great platform to gain exposure on a national and international level and this was the basis for the collaboration. The best is yet to come, and we are very excited about our new venture. 

Have you done any other shows before the DFF, or will this be your first one?
I recently launched my clothing line, Emerald Gold, at the 50 Shades of Black event in May, and from then, doors have been opening up for me in a big way. A big thank you to the organiser, Varshan Sookhun, for giving me the platform.

What plans do you have for Emerald Gold after the Durban Fashion Fair?
From here it is just the beginning of greatness. Firstly, I would love to be locally known and slowly grow and be known internationally. I want people to recognize my talent and I know doors are going to open for me and my brand, Emerald Gold. I have plans of distributing my work to every part of the world.

I'm sure you hardly have time to do anything since we are only two weeks away to DFF; how is that coming along?
Believe it or not, everything is falling into place. The favour of God has surely been upon me. There is no room for stress in my life, and friends and my family have been very supportive, I am grateful for this.

Have you dressed any well-known South Africans before? If not, who would you like to dress? 
No, not yet but I am designing a stunning dress for our amazingly talented South African singer, Natalie Rungun. I would love to dress Joanne Strauss, Lee-Ann Liebenberg, Loyiso Bala, Verd Eaton, and Kajol (Eastern Mosaic).

Who is your favourite international designer?
Coco Chanel

Did you study fashion?
No, it comes naturally for me. I believe that you don’t need a degree or qualifications. Dedication, hard work and motivation is all you need. My mum, Jeanette David, is my biggest inspiration to date. The rest will come your way when you least expect it.

Favourite season of the year?
Definitely Summer. I am a water baby. Summer is the best time of the year in Durban, but Cape Town in winter is amazing! Lots of cuddling, hot chocolate, fireplaces and indoor braais.

How many pairs of shoes do you own?
I love giving back. I tend to give a lot of my clothes and shoes away to friends and family, but right now I have about 30 pairs of shoes.

The last time I went shopping was...
Last Friday!! I love shopping and spoiling myself in every way.