“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.” – Rachel Zoe
From looking at her pictures on social networks and seeing her at fashion events, Tshegofatso Ramorwesi always stands out from the crowd. Without her even having to say much, her style tells it all!
Tell us a bit about yourself…
I am Tshego Ramorwesi. I am a visual person, a creative who is passionate about colour and the power that it has over a person or a space. I’m a qualified multi-media designer and web developer, a makeup artist and photographer, but above all I am SwirlStylists. *oh and I love tennis!
Describe your style in 3 words
Eclectic, Playful, Versatile
Who or what inspires it?
My mother has a very lady-like approach to her fashion and there’s something very ageless about that! Kelly Osbourne is such a risk-taker with her fashion, She loves and lives for fashion. I live the versatility of her looks. And Rihanna is such a trend-setter. There is something undeniably sexy about every look. Her fashion sense represents the spirit of this generation which is something I admire a lot.
Favorite items in your wardrobe?
My creeper converse
Denim high waist shorts
A vintage scarf that my mother gave me
Favourite place to shop
I love Topshop and Cotton On but nothing tops thrift shopping.
Favorite SA designer
I actually have three:
State Of Guru
Lloydhotsense
Touch Of Bling
How has your style changed ever since your Phly Cru days?
Phly cru taught me how to express myself. Their modus operandi was self expression,so it was very rebellious and eyebrow raising. It taught me to always dress to please myself, but the most important thing it taught me, was to not be afraid of playing with color. So although my outfits today may not be a kaleidoscopic display of color, I now know how to manipulate colour to suit my mood.
How did being part of the crew affect your career choice or you as a person?
It taught me the importance of self-image and self-appreciation. That if you look good, you feel good. As a stylist, I play a role in ensuring that people feel good through the clothes they wear and the accessories they choose. It taught me how to perceive the world away from the eyes of trends and “what’s hot right now”.
How did your career as a stylist come about?
It all happened by chance really. I met a guy in my hood, who happened to be a stylist that was in need of a graphic designer. I shadowed him on some of his client visits and my interest grew from there… and after my first on-set job, I developed this intense love affair for styling, that couldn’t be broken.
How did sharing a cover shoot with Bonang Matheba feel?
It was quite surreal, you know. As a girl, you go through this moment when you wanna be a model. You wanna feel the heat of the flashing lights on your skin, the electric excitement in the air… so when that opportunity came, the little girl inside of me was euphoric. I mean, Bonang. What?! THEE Bonang Matheba. That just took my excitement into over-drive. It was the best experience ever, she’s such a lovely person. It’s one of those experiences I’ll never forget.
What was is like styling the “king” of Hip Hop?
I’ve always been a fan of AKA’s music. I’ve always known him as a guy that’s very certain of what he wants. I was a little nervous to work with him, but he is quite brilliant. He is open to trying new things, which is something I definitely admire about him… he is a rule breaker.
Please name a few of the celebrities you have worked with and the ones you would like to work with in future
I have worked with AKA, YOTV Presenters, Pearl Thusi, Pearl Modiadie, Pabi Moloi, Lehasa Moloi, Zakeeya Patel, P-squared, Phyno, Flava, Bongi Mvuyana, Thabiso (Yfm) and Jenna Dover. I would love to work with Lootlove, Riky Rick, Boity and OkMalumKoolKat, just to name a few…
As a stylist, what would you say is “in” and what should be “out” for both guys and girls?
These are staples that every person (guys and girl) should keep: – A pair of white Chuck Taylors (All Stars) – these are versatile, comfortable and you can literally dress them up or down. They are timeless. A crisp white button up shirt, Black fitted / skinny jeans and a well fitted pair of shades.
And what are your styling tips for winter (hairstyles etc)
Ladies don’t keep your weave in for months, remember cleanliness is next to godliness 😉 Guys, keep it short.
And lastly, your favorite fashion quote
”Everyday is a fashion show and the world is your runway” – Coco Chanel
Facebook – Tshegofatso Ramorwesi
Twitter – @swirlstylists
Photography – @officialNqobi_M