Last Wednesday was all about Nelson Mandela— he celebrated his 94th
birthday, it was Nelson Mandela International Day, and his clothing
and accessories line 466/64 Fashion made its North American debut.
The
launch of 466/64, which is pronounced “four, double six, six four,” was kicked
off with a fashion show and press conference held at the South African
Consulate in New York City.
466/64 represents Mandela’s prisoner number and year of
imprisonment on Robben Island — #466 in 1964. Mandela wasn’t
present at the unveiling of the line at the South African
Consul General in
New York, but licensor Brand ID pulled
off a great event. South African vocalist Lira and international model Sam Sarong are
the two faces of the brand, which was founded in 2011.

Lira in her statement said "As a young South African, I can
wear a brand that makes me proud to show where I’m coming from,” as she graced
the runway with international model Sam.
The fashion brand hopes
that its global expansion efforts will boost South Africa’s economy and help
create more local textile jobs. Sixty percent of the collection is made in
South Africa, and part of the proceeds will be set aside for the 466/64
Foundation.
The collection will be available online and in
specialty stores, and will be also shown during New York Fashion Week in September and hit department stores
in 2013 spring.
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