Denzil Pillay from Wynberg is not allowing the Coronavirus pandemic to cramp his style.
The 32-year-old, who showcased his work at the Kenilworth Racecourse Winter Wonderland Fashion Show 2017, is a self-employed fashion designer who says that as an entrepreneur in the creative industry, it’s challenging to save yourself during a sudden pandemic.
“It’s extremely difficult to have an exit strategy, but through my passion and drive for fashion, I strongly believe that what you put in is what you’ll get out,” says Denzil.
He says by shifting from the traditional way of doing things, to going online, he was able to survive and even expand his business.
“I have accomplished my goals set for 2019 via online marketing with clients requesting designs within South Africa.
BOOST: Denzil Pillay has expanded his fashion line
“My current goal is to branch out further, taking into account the current circumstances with the Covid-19 pandemic,” he says.
“Instead of it being a bleak phase for me, I have grown so much with new ideas for my selection of male and female garments.
“For some, this lockdown has been tough, but for me, it was an opportunity to do some introspection that resulted in amazing ideas,” says Pillay.
He says that the lockdown gave him the opportunity to explore his creativity.
“Throughout the lockdown, I have couriered items from my men’s winter collection to Johannesburg, Durban, Bloemfontein, Port Elizabeth and Kimberly. My designs are inclusive of all body types.”
He shares some words of advice for young, local designers: “Believe in yourself, have faith in your abilities and dream big.”