Here’s a little history recap before I proceed: 46664 (it’s pronounced as four, double six, six four) was also the prison number for Nelson Mandela from his imprisonment in 1964 to his release in 1990. The number stems from the fact that he was the 466 prisoner of 1964. 46664 is also the name of the HIV/AIDS awareness campaign started by Nelson Mandela, which has held a series of charity concerts; commonly known as “46664 Concerts”.
If that was not enough, these campaigns have now landed in the world of trends. Now we can all own a piece of history, or at the least promote the knowledge of it. Majority of the collection comprises of prints – no brainer that it was inspired by the full print / loose shirts that Mandela himself wore after taking office in 1994 as South Africa’s first black president.
Mandela’s 46664 fashion line made catwalk debut in JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – Sep 26 2011.
The collection so far, has lines for men, women and children too. From printed dresses to conservative pencil skirts, printed wear for men or even “46664” branded golf shirts for kids. This is not only for the love of fashion, but primarily for the love of charity.
Discover the collection online: www.46664fashion.com – (images courtesy of the site).
“46664 Fashion was created as a partnership between Seardel/Brand ID and 46664, as part of 46664′s concerted move towards building its sustainability/self-sufficiency.
The license agreement was robustly overseen by the 46664 Board and ensures that a percentage of 46664 Fashion’s turnover is given to 46664 to further the humanitarian legacy of its founder, Mr Nelson Mandela. This means that 46664 will be able to engage in long-term planning. Its Board will identify projects that will benefit from funds raised through sales of 46664 Fashion, and the other commercial endeavours undertaken by 46664. It’s important to note that monies raised by 46664 will not accrue to any individual.”
South Africa is definitely at the forefront of African Fashion therefore we can look forward to exuberant collections as well as concerts from the “46664” brand.
Contributor: Carla Fernandes (Africa-Vogue.com–Coming Soon!)







