Gert’s designs adhere to a classic simplicity. Timeless and elegant, they are nearly always breathtaking with a cosmopolitan edge. Add sheer professionalism, superbly designed and cut garments to that couture cocktail and you have Gert van de Merwe’s success story in the fashion industry.
He is the respected winner of the 1996 Catherine Award, the 1998 J&B Rare Designer Award and was nominated for the Catherine Personal Style Award in 2000 and 2001. In 1999, Gert was the only South African designer ever to be invited to the Seol Fashion Week in Korea. He has couture studios in Cape Town and Pretoria, South Africa and is renowned and revered for producing some of the most beautiful bridal gowns and evening wear in South Africa.
Gert van de Merwe then expanded into Europe, launching his first European studio in London in 2002.
Gert’s inaugural fashion show was held at the Rotary International’s Annual Gala Charity Evening, to an exclusive private audience in ‘The Palace of Art’ at Lord Leighton’s House.
His design ethic stems from an urge to make women look beautiful. His secret? An unerring eye for beauty in all shapes and sizes, a down-to-earth demeanor that endears him to clients and an irrepressible creative eye.
Inspired by three key couture elements of texture, proportion and silhouette; his design focus remains committed to classicism. Black is always a key foundation, and each garment is tailored to fit the mood and figure of each client.
Inspiration
The inspiration for the collection is the journey through Africa, of a girl from the “Belle Epoqhue” bedecked in flounces, ruches ,roses and animal prints.
