Capturing Elegance: Okapi and Millerner's Bespoke Headwear Showcase in Cape Town
As a Cape Town-based event photographer, I've had the privilege of documenting countless memorable moments. However, the recent collaboration between luxury South African brand Okapi and milliner Lyndon Miller Pegs was truly something special. Join me as I take you behind the scenes of this exquisite event that brought together fashion, craftsmanship, and Cape Town's vibrant social scene.
A Celebration of South African Artistry
On a balmy Cape Town afternoon, Merchants on Long, a boutique known for championing African luxury brands, opened its doors to host an event that would set the tone for the upcoming L'Ormarins King's Plate. The occasion? The unveiling of a bespoke collection of headwear born from the creative minds at Okapi and the skilled hands of Johannesburg-based milliner Lyndon Miller Pegs.
As guests arrived, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. The carefully curated space at Merchants on Long provided the perfect backdrop for this fusion of fashion and function. Cocktails flowed freely, their pale blue hues a nod to the iconic L'Ormarins King's Plate colours, setting the stage for an afternoon of style and sophistication.
Craftsmanship on Display
The stars of the show were, undoubtedly, the exquisite pieces of headwear on display. From tiaras crafted with intricate rattan work to broad-brimmed hats in various shades of aqua, each piece told a story of skilled artisanship and attention to detail.
One of the highlights of the afternoon was watching Lyndon Miller Pegs in action. With deft fingers and an artist's eye, he demonstrated the art of customization, adding feathers, adjusting trims, and personalizing hats for enthralled guests. It was a masterclass in millinery, and capturing these moments of creation was a photographer's dream.
A Toast to Collaboration
As the afternoon progressed, the energy in the room continued to build. Guests, many of whom were preparing for the L'Ormarins King's Plate, eagerly tried on different styles, seeking the perfect headpiece to complete their race day ensembles.
The clinking of glasses and the buzz of excited conversation provided a lively soundtrack to the event. As a photographer, these moments of genuine joy and interaction are what want to cover.
Sustainability Meets Style
What struck me most about this collection was the thoughtful approach to materials and production. The use of rattan, sourced through the Cape Town Society for the Blind, spoke volumes about Okapi's commitment to sustainability and community support. This ethos perfectly aligned with the timeless yet modern aesthetic of the headwear.
Capturing the interplay between the natural textures of the rattan and the luxurious ostrich leather trims was a delightful challenge. The contrast of these materials under the warm lighting of Merchants on Long created a visual feast that I hope comes through in the photographs.
The Man Behind the Hats
No event coverage would be complete without spotlighting the creative genius behind the collection. Lyndon Miller Pegs, with his infectious enthusiasm and evident passion for his craft, was the heart and soul of the showcase.
In between adjusting a feather here and reshaping a brim there, Lyndon shared insights into his design process and the inspiration behind the collection. His ability to blend classic race day elegance with contemporary African luxury was evident in every piece, and it was a privilege to document his interactions with guests and his creations.
Capturing the Moment: A Photographer's Perspective
As an event photographer in Cape Town, I've learned that the key to capturing the essence of an occasion lies in the details. For this event, I focused on using natural light wherever possible, complemented by strategic flash photography to highlight the textures and colors of the headwear.
The intimate setting of Merchants on Long presented both challenges and opportunities. Navigating the space required a keen eye and quick reflexes to capture candid moments without disrupting the flow of the event. My go-to lens for the afternoon was a versatile 17-55mm, allowing me to switch seamlessly between wide shots of the venue and close-ups of the intricate hat details.
Looking Ahead to the L'Ormarins King's Plate
As the afternoon wound down, there was a palpable sense of excitement for the upcoming L'Ormarins King's Plate. Guests left not just with exquisite headwear, but with the promise of a follow-up styling session with Lyndon himself – a personal touch that exemplifies the bespoke nature of this collaboration.
Reflections on an Afternoon of Cape Town Glamour
Events like these remind me why I love being an event photographer in Cape Town. Our city has a unique ability to blend luxury with authenticity, tradition with innovation. The Okapi and Millerner collaboration showcase was a perfect embodiment of this spirit.
To the teams at Okapi and Millerner, thank you for allowing me to be part of this extraordinary afternoon. And to the guests who brought their energy and style, you made this event a joy to photograph.
For those attending the L'Ormarins King's Plate, I can't wait to see how these stunning headpieces complete your race day looks. And for everyone else, I hope these images have given you a glimpse into a night where Cape Town fashion truly shone.
Are you planning an event in Cape Town that deserves to be captured in all its glory? Whether it's a product launch, corporate gathering, or fashion showcase, I'd love to help bring your vision to life through photography. Get in touch to discuss how we can create lasting memories of your special occasion.
