A sartorial icon

LINEAGE: OFFSHOOT OF DEDICATED FASHIONISTAS

- Hein Kaiser

It's almost as if destiny had carved out her career well before Durban-based designer Kathrin Kridger could hold a pen.

She was born from generations of needle and thread. Her great-grandmother was a British milliner, her grandmother worked in London's fashion houses, and her mother was a dedicated seamstress.

Fashion, for Kridger, was never just an interest; it's been a natural fit from the get-go.

And it's been a ride. The designer has been a standard feature at the Durban July since her first appearance in 2004.

Thereafter, the only way was up. Accolades, multiple awards and legions of clients have established Kridger not just as a Durban designer, but a creator of national influence.

Everyone from the who's who on shape-shifting A-lists through to the belles of matric balls have donned her garments.

Now, 20 years into her career, Kridger says she still focuses on creating fashion that combines timeless design with ease of wear. It's her signature.

It's the warmth of her personality and absolute energy with which she talks about fashion.