MY LOOK: Capital Fashion Consulting’s Rosina Mahlangu chats winter wear, healthy body image, and upcoming events
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MY LOOK: Capital Fashion Consulting’s Rosina Mahlangu chats winter wear, healthy body image, and upcoming events
BY Vanessa Ortynsky
POSTED November 20, 2012 1:00 pm

 

Above left: Rosina Mahlangu is wearing a floral blazer from Rikochet Resale in Westboro, and her dress is from Forever 21. Her jewellery was bought in Barbados, and her shoes were purchased in Toronto. Above right: Mahlangu sports a pinstripe blazer from H&M and a white pleated Moon Collection dress from Milk Boutique. Her vintage jewellery is from St. Vincent de Paul, and the black shoes she purchased in Toronto. Photography by Lucyna Bakowska.



Interview by Vanessa Ortynsky

Originally from Zimbabwe, you grew up in Toronto. What made you decide to establish yourself in Ottawa?
After graduating from Carleton University in business law last spring, I thought, What am I going to do with my life? I’ve always been passionate about starting my own business, and if there’s ever been a time, this is it. People are often surprised that I’m pursuing fashion in Ottawa, but there’s potential here.

As owner and founder of Capital Fashion Consulting, you’ve hosted events like Ottawa’s one-of-a-kind shopping bus tour. Any upcoming events planned?
We’re currently working on a project called Ottawa’s Next Top Designer. It will give local designers the opportunity to showcase their work. First place will get to feature their design in a window display in Premium Clothing’s downtown boutique. The project allows contestants to gain exposure, which is essential for anyone starting out in the business.

Where are the best places to shop on a budget?
I’m obsessed with locally owned consignment shops. I’ve recently discovered Rikochet Resale and AMH Style. Both have extensive ranges of brands for those of us who love mixing high-end designers with bargain threads. I also love Milk, Victoire, Workshop, and Flock, because they stock Canadian designers.

What are you looking forward to wearing this season?
Since winter can be a bit depressing, I like to have fun with my coats and scarves. My style’s very feminine, and I wear sophisticated, bright coats with standout scarves, because nobody sees what’s underneath anyway.

How does Ottawa distinguish itself from other Canadian cities, fashion-wise?
There are lots of students and young professionals who really set the tone for imminent trends. I find university students to be cutting-edge, and I love working with them on CFC ventures.

How does your business promote a healthy body image?
My website and photo shoots feature real people with real bodies. Capital Fashion Consulting targets students and younger people, and in this market, it’s important to promote a realistic, positive image.

This story appears in the Winter edition of Ottawa Magazine. Buy the magazine on newsstands or order your online edition.