BIJI LA MAISON DE COUTURE: A LOOK INTO SOUTH AFRICA'S COUTURE POWERHOUSE
Biji Gibbs describes herself as a designer of luxurious, one of a kind gowns worn by exceptional women who breathe life into my craft. Truer words were never written.
While many may never forget Zozibini’s dress as she graciously took to stage for her final walk as Miss Universe 2019, many were left in awe at the astonishing gown that paid homage to her African roots, and more importantly, her identity as a proud Xhosa woman. A gown that took 800 hours of hand beading to create.
It goes without saying that that fateful evening shined a beaming spotlight on South African designers, more so, the lady behind Zozi’s prominent gown, Birgit (Biji) Gibbs.
Biji is a professional fashion designer, best known for creating custom wedding and celebrity couture pieces, as well as special occasion gowns.
Formally known as Biji La Maison de Couture, the fashion house was founded in 1990 and has since cemented its position in the South African fashion industry as a brand that specialises in luxurious and innovative designs, catered for its precious customers.
The brand equally prides itself in excellent service to create masterpieces that will produce a lasting memory to the clients.
Although, like many of us, COVID took a hit on the business and having to let go of staff and move into mask-making, it did not take long for the powerhouse to get back into making what they do best.
It goes without saying that Miss Universe was not the first time Biji had heads turning and put South Africa on a global stage with her grand designs. In 2015, former Miss SA and Miss World 2014, Rolene Strauss, wore a staggering red Biji scarlet design gown as she handed over the Miss World crown. An unforgettable moment indeed.
Not only has Biji created garments for our pageant queens, but she has also, on many occasions, worked with Queen B (Bonang Matheba), Thando Thabethe, and many more local stars.
The designer’s catalog is one of the most decorated and is undoubtedly appreciated by many that have seen her work represent the best of the nation, both local and globally.
