Lisp

Upon first glance, Lisp is a brand that epitomizes an 80’s rock and roll lifestyle. Designs can be described as carefree, bold and evidently independent. This contemporary fashion brand brings a unique, never-seen-before, rock chic appeal to the South African fashion industry.

The Lisp range importantly strives to achieve designs that are nostalgic and that harken back to 80’s Rock and Roll glamour, as characterized by Pamela Des Barres in “I’m With the Band”. Lisp’s original range draws inspiration from rock and roll influences including The Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, The Doors and Blondie. Designer, Oriel Barnard, is the brains behind this unmatched South African label and also looks to style icons such as Kate Moss, Georgia May Jagger and Eddie Sedgwick as muses.

Furthermore, Barnard’s designs articulate a South African youth culture that is driven by its passion for rock and roll, coupled with a desire for freedom, independence and modern fashion garments that are both trendy but also timeless. Hence, this brand takes the ever-evolving nature of the fashion industry into account when creating designs that conform to both local and international trends. Garments simultaneously elucidate strong links to the progressive music scene both within South Africa and abroad.

All items within the Lisp collection evince an unparalleled freedom and the passionate inner fire of one’s youth.  Lisp is about living out Rock and Roll, singing in the shower and living life to the full. It’s about wearable items that help achieve a highly unusual style.

The brand makes use of a wide range of fabrics including leather, cotton, studs, Lycra and even feathers. Simple and stylish lines are complemented by embellishments, creative appliqué and other creative components. This difference is what makes the wearer desirable and at the same time feel self-confident and liberated.

In particular, The Mermaid Motel range comprises carefree shirts with intricate stitching and an evidently cowgirl feel enmeshed with that of rock and roll. Cutaway tees in stretch cotton bearing striking words are signature pieces of the range. Tight-fitting snake print leggings with stunning stitched detail create a definite rock chic edge. Additionally, chiffon dresses are flowing and feminine in nature but at the same time their asymmetrical styles, natural prints and bold copper embellishments create a striking urban appearance. Frayed denim shorts and rock chic tees create a playful, unmatched rock and roll appearance and are great for summer days and festivals.

Ultimately, the overarching themes running through Lisp’s designs are freedom and sex-appeal. These are items for the daring at heart. Clothes are tailored to be comfortable and to make individuals look striking and seductive. Lisp is no doubt the epitome of rock and roll culture within South Africa and the brand has importantly been featured in top publications including Cosmopolitan, One Small Seed, Elle and Glamour.