Bright colours, bold accessories, dress up and fun always, these are some of the memories brought to life by the ReJoyce Collection fashion show.
Durban, South Africa (28 March 2023) – Jane Linley-Thomas decided to host a fun community-build (think teambuilding) by putting on a slow fashion show honouring her late grandmother’s style and empowering personality. The late Joyce Linley brought together 26 women spanning from the age of 10 all the way to 70 all to wear some of the best thrifted and second-hand threads in the name of slow fashion.
Jane started building The ReJoyce Collection in 2020 as a way to connect, empower and create a space of escape and joy for women.
“Having worked and still working in the media industry for the last 20 years my wardrobe is always bursting with outfits from designer to thrifted.
Coathanger after coathanger of bright and beautiful threads that had joined me for special occasions.
The idea hatched to string up a rail of gorgeous pre-loved clothes and see what happens.It has been almost 2 years and the idea has flourished into a destination, an experience, a safe space for women to play to find their courage, to slow down and take time for themselves, and of course to have fun!”
Jane shares that thrifting and style run in the family. She learned the skill from her mother, who would go “treasure hunting” for clothing and accessory items at second-hand and charity shops.
Joyce Linley was a well-dressed confident woman. She loved the Opera, the Durban Botanical Gardens, playing bingo and her heart was filled with charity; she was the President of The Rotary Annes, twice!
“As a little girl I remember my gran ́s confidence and how she dressed and presented herself.I drank her in as she wore her wide brimmed hats, high waisted belts, sparkly brooches, aviator sunglasses, bright lips and eye-catching well put together looks.
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She was such a statuesque woman, I remember her confidence, her sense of self and others she was a light and voice for those around her.
And boy oh boy was she fun to be around.
She was always up for a dress up, impromptu play, musical recital, she was at ease with most musical instruments.
I have so many happy memories when i think about my childhood and hanging with my creative gatekeeper.”
Jane put on the fashion show as a community builder and female empowerment project. She invited young and old to join in and have fun while wearing pre-loved fashion and accessories.
“Recently I decided to throw a community build event in collaboration with the flower farm at Impala Ridge Farm.
A funway featuring 26 beautiful ladies ranging from 10 years old to mid 70ś. An inclusive walk of women from all walks of life. Same same but different.They arrived as strangers and left with a deeper sense of self and a tight-knit sisterhood.
The ReJoyce collection is all about playfulness, empowerment and elevating slow fashion and women’s worth, courage and energy to new heights”
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