Europa Art joins forces with Gert-Johan Coetzee for the Barbie Loves Gert collection, inspired by South Africa
Europa Art collaborates with Barbie® and Local Designer Gert-Johan Coetzee
Europa Art has joined forces with local fashion designer, Gert-Johan Coetzee, to both design and create the shoes that will form part of the Barbie Loves Gert collection. Gert-Johan Coetzee and Barbie collaborated in November 2021 to launch the South African-inspired ready-to-wear collection – including a one-of-a-kind couture dress made specifically to fit the number-one fashion doll in the world.
“Fashion runs through our veins at Europa Art, so it’s no secret that we’re a long-time fan of South African fashion designer, Gert-Johan Coetzee. When Gert approached us to join forces with him for the Barbie Loves Gert partnership, we were delighted at the opportunity to work with one of South Africa’s most celebrated couture designers on this exciting project,”
says Melina Lambrakis, Director & Fashion Buyer of Europa Art Group. Using their knowledge and expertise in the craft of shoemaking since 1974, Europa Art worked hand-in-hand with Coetzee to bring the shoes for the collection to life.
The Barbie Loves Gert collection, comprised of 31 looks, celebrates the unique style widely recognized by South Africans.
“I wanted Barbie to experience South Africa to its fullest by integrating an array of South African cultural elements into the collection – striking pink from the Pedi culture complimented by geometric patterns inspired by the Zulu culture. Using South African beadwork in black and white, I took inspiration from the Xhosa culture. I wanted this collection to encapsulate a truly South African experience,”
explains Coetzee.
“When people look at the collaboration from around the world, they must feel inspired by the diversity of Africa, the richness of our culture, and the beauty of our men and women.”
Commenting on the design process for the five different shoe styles, Lambrakis says it was such fun, with every little detail considered.
“After all, the devil is in the details when it comes to superior quality and lavish luxury. But with a passionate knowledge of exquisitely crafted footwear and a history that spans close to 50 years, it was an enjoyable project for Europa Art and we are thrilled with the results. We know our customers will be too.”
Each of the five styles is available in two colourways.
All genders, sizes, and cultures are represented in the work by Gert-Johan Coetzee, and the models who walk in the show reflect Coetzee’s commitment to diversity.
“We want our customers to step out in true style,”
concludes Lambrakis.
The shoes from the Barbie Loves Gert collection, as well as select apparel pieces, are available at select Europa Art stores as well as online. To find out more information on the shoes as well as the ready-to-wear items available to consumers, visit Gert's website.
About Europa Art Group
Europa Art Group, established in 1974, has been associated with superior quality and lavish luxury for close to 50 years. Built on style, sophistication, and passionate knowledge of exquisitely crafted footwear, apparel, and accessories – the group has opened up the South African market to an array of premium brands that take a front-row seat. These include DKNY, Karl Lagerfeld, Chiara Ferragni, Tory Burch, Liu Jo, Benetton, Cesare Paciotti and Sam Edelman, to name but a few.
About Gert-Johan Coetzee
Gert-Johan Coetzee is one of South Africa’s most loved and admired fashion designers who count several influential women in business, politics, and African royalty among his clients. Former Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela, and Miss Universe 2018, Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters, are just two newsmakers who chose Gert-Johan Coetzee gowns for special occasions, as is talk show host, Oprah Winfrey, who wore GJC at the Global Citizen Festival in December 2018. Coetzee has won numerous awards, including SA’s Most Promising Young Designer in 2006 at the age of 19 and SA Designer of the Year in 2010. He has shown at international fashion weeks in Canada, Angola, and Nigeria and has a growing following in Africa. What’s more, at the end of 2020 Coetzee dressed American rapper and songwriter, Cardi B, in a custom beaded gown for her husband Offset’s birthday bash.
About Mattel
Mattel is a leading global toy company and owner of one of the strongest catalogs of children’s and family entertainment franchises in the world. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire, entertain and develop children through play. We engage consumers through our portfolio of iconic brands, including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price®, American Girl®, Thomas & Friends®, UNO®, Masters of the Universe®, Monster High® and MEGA®, as well as other popular intellectual properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include film and television content, gaming and digital experiences, music, and live events. We operate in 35 locations and our products are available in more than 150 countries in collaboration with the world’s leading retail and eCommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering children to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential.
