Fashion Fails for Him

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Usually they look like dreams that have come to life, or male models straight off the catwalk. But here is proof that some of our favourite celebrity boys also sometimes have a fashion faux pas.

David Beckham: 

Footballer, Vogue model, husband of probably the most popular spice-girl in the world, and fashion fool? Although David Beckham has every reason in the world to always look fabulous, he’s missed the mark a few times. In 1999, he arrived at the Versace Fashion Show in London wearing a Gucci black leather biker suit. Nah Becks, that’s best left for Victoria.

Simon Cowell: 

Finally! Here’s our chance to inflict the same rude, nasty behaviour on the music mogul from England. Simon, your expertise in the music business is incredible. But so is your ability to look like a complete idiot in jeans. High rise, extra long legs and no shirt? Really?!

Brad Pitt: 

An actor since 1987, and one of the most beautiful men since the start of his career, Brad has pretty much nailed looking good. But every now-and-again good ol’ Brad doesn’t hit the nail on the head. With an offish-green tie, an offish-green jacket that somehow doesn’t match the tie and a funny mustache crawling across his face, Mr. Pitt has shown that Angelina married him for his personality.

Gordon Ramsey: 


If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen? Well, Mr. Ramsey, if you can’t cut the hair, leave the scissors alone. Gordon Ramsey was spotted rocking this funny-looking-wig-mishap when he hit the shops in London. This was an epic fail for a trend that is hard to mess up. And he did it twice?!

Shia LaBeouf:

What do you do when fame goes to your head? Well, you transform your head into probably the greatest fashion faux pas in the history of celebrities. In order to prove a point, or to prevent sunburn, Mr. LaBeouf sported a simple suit and a brown paper bag stating “I am not famous anymore” to a well-publicised red carpet event in 2014. Who knows what he was thinking, or even if he was thinking.

At least with Soviet Denim’s range of jeans, footwear and apparel for ladies, gents and kids, you can always look like a celebrity… the hot, trendy, well-dressed kind, of course.

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Coming Together to Celebrate a New Future

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On the 16th of December we observe the coming together of two of South Africa’s major historical events to celebrate a new, reconciled nation. 


Coming into effect after the 1994 democratic elections, on the 16th of December 1995, The Day of Reconciliation plays a very significant part in South Africa’s history. Tasked with promoting reconciliation and national unity, the new, non-racial democratic government pulled together two historical events from opposing sides to form a public holiday that represented a promise of a  shared future together, regardless of race.

Before the rise of a united South Africa, the 16th of December was celebrated by most Afrikaners as “Day of the Vow”. On this day, in 1838, the Voortrekkers took on the Zulu nation in a fight for land. With the aid of gunpowder, the 470 Voortrekkers faced an army of over 10 000 Zulus and emerged victorious, thus vowing to commemorate the day for generations to come.

In 1961, however, Umkhonto we Sizwe was formed. The “Spear of the Nation”, as it is translated, was known as the military wing of the African National Congress, and was launched to fight the Apartheid government through aggressive resistance. This was decided after the Sharpville Massacre in 1960 in which several peaceful protestors were indiscriminately shot at by police.

This year, the cabinet encourages all South Africans to honour the day as we promote reconciliation, peace and social cohesion, especially in the turmoil the country is facing at the moment. The theme, “Bridging the divide: Building a common South African nationhood towards a national developmental state” will be celebrated in Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape this year.

The rainbow has come to be the symbol of our nation. At Soviet, we aim to turn the differences of our languages, cultures and histories, into a source of strength and richness.

We wish you a happy, united Day of Reconciliation.





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Soviet Wine2Whales Team Hands Over Cheque to Alpha School

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07 December 2015: The Wine2Whales Soviet Team presents Alpha School for Autistic Learners with a cheque of R12 201.00, following a gruelling 3-day Mountain Bike Trail challenge. 


The 3-day MTB race started on 6 November 2015, with over 1300 racers taking part in the 212 km race from the picturesque Lourensford Wine Estate to the beautiful town of Hermanus. Riders had the choice of riding in a personal capacity, or in order to raise awareness for a charity of their choice.

With a personal investment in the school (Achmat Joseph’s son attends the school), the riders welcomed the opportunity to raise funds that would allow the school to develop new projects and get more resources in order to support the children.
Soviet decided to sponsor 6 riders for the race in the bid to raise funds in support of the Alpha School for Autistic Learners. With many months of planning, training and hard work, the riders completed the race on 8 November.

“We have raised a fantastic amount of money that will go straight towards the Alpha School for Autistic Children, helping them in some their needs. But more than that, we have raised awareness for the School. Without events like this, the school cannot continue to offer specialist care to Autistic children in Woodstock." says Mr. Ashraf Kathrada, Owner of Soviet Concept Stores in Cape Town, and one of the team members for Soviet.

Nerina Kerns, Principal at Alpha School, was excited at the donation made, saying that it was greatly appreciated and that it showed the support from people across South Africa for the cause that she has worked so hard for.

"The was a major undertaking for a group of determined people, and they should be proud of the thoroughness and dedication they showed in order to achieve their goal. We are honoured to be associated with these heroes,” says Adrian Spence from Soviet Head Office.


Soviet provided each of the cyclists with a riding kit for the event, including clothing, tees, caps and a “chill zone” area for the riders and supporters. Each rider, in addition to paying for their own entry fees into the race, also donated R1 per kilometer that they completed. An impressive amount of R12 201 in total was collected through charity contributions from the public and organisations. Some donations are still outstanding, but are expected in time for the Holidays.

Soviet would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all the contributions you have made, as well as your support and assistance towards our charity effort.

If you would like to contribute to our on-going efforts, please feel free to make a donation of any size to the Alpha School for Autistic Children in Woodstock. Banking details below.

Alpha School for Autistic Kids
First National Bank
Account Number: 50130041010
Branch Code: 201909

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Turning Denim Wishes Into a Soviet Christmas

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It’s time for Christmas, and the presents under the tree are stacking up. While you know your SO has gotten you the perfect gift, your contribution to the mountain of presents is still lacking in presence. Soviet gives you a list of items that your sexy and stylish fashionista will love:

Soviet Atomic Kitten Skinny Jeans in Black: Give your girl some downtown flair with these biker-style jeans that goes with everything she already has. The trendy design has a sleek finish, with pockets and belt loops. The Skinny fit will make her feel sexy, no matter what her size, best worn with Vipers and a punk tee.


Soviet Newport Denim Shirt: If your guy is denim-obsessed, then he’ll be obsessing over your genius if he finds one of these under the tree. The short sleeve is fresh and edgy, especially paired with black skinny jeans and Viper sneakers.


Soviet Amanda Leggings in Black: Build her basics with these all-black, leather-like front and fabric-back leggings. With an elasticised waistband, Soviet’s legging are figure-hugging and perfect with a sheer top and casual boots.


Soviet Derby High-top Sneakers in Blue: If his denim gear needs a little somethin’-somethin’ to spice it up, get him the lace-up front, snap closure and round nose Derby High-top sneakers. With a tan, imitation leather overlay, these sneakers are a street style investment. Its steel blue colour enhances its appeal, while its canvas design, imitation leather uppers and a rubber sole completes the street-smart look.
Soviet Nissi Floral Strappy Dress: With its floral sex-appeal and beautiful design, this is probably more a gift for yourself, than it is for your girl. Let her feel as gorgeous as she is with black, strappy heels and some sexy red lips as you show your beautiful girl off to the world.


Soviet Rudd Tee with Pebble Pu Pocket in Navy: If he’s not quite as fashion-forward as you would like him to be, and his idea of dressing up means pulling his jeans all the way up, then Soviet’s Redd Tee with Pebble Pu Pocket will polish up his casual look to a fine man to stare at. With a textured breast pocket, this is not just normal tee. Pair it with cotton shorts and low-top Vipers.


Soviet Viper Hi Sneakers in Gold: You love her from top to toe? Then cover her feet in the golden sneaks that will add the hottest kind of bling to her feet. Pair it with a denim playsuit for extra fun.


Whatever you decide to buy, Soviet will add some sexy to your gifting adventures. Visit a Soviet shop now for special deals and fashion-forward apparel and accessories. 

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Surf, Sun and Soviet

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Plettenberg Bay - Over 15 000 beach-goers and youngsters take over the small Western Cape town to attend Southern Africa’s largest student festival 


On 28 November 2015 the longest running, and perhaps the largest student festival in the Southern Hemisphere, PlettRage, officially started. With over 15 000 students descending on the small town of Plettenberg Bay, this Summer bash promised to be a non-stop party for all involved.

With temperatures running up to 39°C, some of South Africa’s hottest talent in music and fantastic sponsors to add extra flair to the party, it is no wonder that the Ragers took to the fun with high energy vibes and made the PlettRage festival the time of their lives.


Major sponsors, including 4th Street, Red Bull, Flying Fish and Brutal Fruit, added to the fun with various activation events. The festival was split into day and night activities. Day-time action concentrated at Central Beach, with Ragers cruising around town or lazing on the beach. Night-time jamming held at the VIP Superclub allowed the young adults to let loose and dance to the beats of the younger generation.

Soviet, the exclusive clothing sponsor for the event, spared no cost or effort to ensure that Ragers would have the time of their lives. With branded giveaways, prizes, social media interaction and so much more, Soviet has definitely set the scene for Summer at PlettRage2015. Included in Soviet’s contribution was a beach tent where beach-goers could chill-out to some live music, including The Kiffness, Iscream and the Chocolate Stix and Grimehouse. Soviet highlights also included:

The Soviet Denim #PlettRage2015 Billboard:


Knowing the pain of hot sand beneath your feet, especially when you’re trying to look cool, Soviet opened the festival with a giant Billboard covered in branded slops - your fashion necessity for walking tall on the beach. Ragers could enter the billboard area by interacting with Soviet via Social Media (uploading a photo on Instagram or tweeting about the brand). Once inside, each person could grab a pair of slops and go enjoy the day. 600 Pairs of slops later, and the board proudly revealed a welcoming message to all Ragers.

The Soviet Exchange Mobile Van:


PlettRage2015 consisted of more than just one location, including Central Beach and Rage Village. In order to reach all Ragers, throughout Plettenberg Bay, Soviet employed a branded, classic VW Mini Van (symbolising the age of the company, and the classic status of a good pair of jeans) to drive around the town and to offer a unique experience for Ragers. By playing music, taking photos and Social Media Interaction, Soviet set the vibe all around town.

The Soviet Red Carpet Event:


Treating everybody like first-class celebrities, the trendy denim brand held a Soviet Red Carpet Event. The Soviet Denim Carpet was rolled out at the entrance of the VIP Superclub where Ragers could take part in a photo-op. Fun props were provided to spice up and customise their experience, with photos uploaded to Social Media the very next day. The best photo of the night was awarded with a branded Soviet Voucher.

Soviet Sexy Spotter:


Soviet Sexy Spotters were seen roaming all over the festival. Any Rager spotted in Soviet gear was photographed with the pic uploaded to Social Media the next day. Some Ragers received drinks or clothing vouchers for being spotted.

With so much energy and fun, Soviet will be seen again next year, when the festival will be held at a bigger, better venue. Soviet thanks all Ragers for their participation in the event.

 


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Living with HIV/AIDS in South Africa

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1 December 2015 - Today, along with the rest of the world affected by the impartial disease, we commemorate and show support for all those people living with HIV/AIDS, and those who have already died from the Human Immunodeficiency Virus.

HIV (the virus that causes AIDS - Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is transmitted primarily via unprotected sexual intercourse (including anal and oral sex), contaminated blood transfusions, hypodermic needles, and from mother to child during pregnancy. However, there are many social factors that contribute to the spread of HIV, including poverty, inequality and social instability, high levels of sexually transmitted infections, sexual violence and limited access to quality medical care.

South Africa has come a long way since HIV/AIDS was first recognised by the United States Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in 1981. Since then, the nation’s fight against the virus has been unyielding in its goal to minimise the atrocious effects it has on those who have contracted the disease.

In 2010, South Africa increased the efficiency of its Antiretroviral Treatment Programmes, with further expansions implemented in January 2015 to bring South Africa up to date with World Health Organisation treatment guidelines.

Although the amount of people with HIV/AIDS has risen from 4.02 million in 2002 to 6.19 million (11.2% of the population) in 2015, the infection rate is declining, especially for those people between the age of 15 and 49.

In 2015, Stats SA estimated that 162 445 people had died from AIDS-related diseases. This translates to 30.5% of the total number of deaths, compared to a staggering 44.6% in 2002. The
life expectancy for people with the disease is also increasing to an average of 62.5 years, an increase of 9.1 years since 2004.

But, more than their health being affected, people with HIV/AIDS have to live with the stigma and denial related to the infection. Fear and despair often causes a delay in testing, causing the virus to spread even further. Many people are abandoned by their families or partners when diagnosed, job and property loss occur, school expulsion and denial of medical services.

Former President Nelson Mandela said: “Many people suffering from AIDS and not killed by the disease itself are killed by the stigma surrounding everybody who has HIV and AIDS.”

World AIDS Day is an opportunity for us to remind people of the seriousness of the disease, and to increase awareness. On this day South Africa aims to educate and inform the general public of HIV/AIDS in order to fight prejudice and discrimination towards those infected.

We support this programme, and in order to show our support, we bring you 5 important facts about HIV/AIDS that you should be aware of:

- HIV infects the immune system, decreasing the body’s ability to fight off infections and other diseases.
- HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sex, transmission of infected blood, sharing infected needles or other sharp instruments, and from a mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding.
- The best ways to prevent contraction of the virus is through safe sexual activity (using condoms during sex), getting tested for HIV and other STI’s regularly, avoiding sharing needles and syringes and ensuring any blood products you may need is tested for HIV.
- More than 35 million people live with HIV worldwide.
- Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) prevents the HIV virus from multiplying in the body, giving the body’s immune cells the ability to live longer and provide the body with protection from infections.

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Sexy Summer Cocktails

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Mixers, Sundowners, Cocktails… Whatever you like to call them, there is nothing more pleasurable than sipping something sweet on the beachfront at sunset.

With cocktail trends changing with the setting of each sun, Soviet brings you 10 of our favourite Summer Cocktails that will inspire a sense of enjoyment, refreshment and relaxation:


The Strawberry Puff:

Pink, fluffy and classically milkshake-like, the Strawberry Puff has a sense of brightness and freshness that one would expect from a real strawberry. The Hayman’s Old Tom Gin and Lemon adds a well-played citrus flavour, complementing the zesty strawberry contribution. It’s not too sweet, or heavy, as most creamy cocktails can be.

Ingredients:

- Hayman’s Old Tom Gin
- Strawberries
- Lemon
- Cream


Illuminati:

The Illuminati is a Mezcal-based cocktail made with 5 variants of orange-based ingredients. Although it might come across as an orange-flavoured adult drink, it isn’t. It has a graceful, feminine taste, with subliminal citrus flavours.

Ingredients:

- Sombra Mezcal
- Sobeso
- Santa Teresa Orange Rhum
- Luxardo Tripulm
- Scrappy’s Seville Orange Bitters
- Fee Brothers West Indian Orange Bitters



Taco Truck:

Putting a whole new spin on the drink of the season, Mezcal, the Taco Truck is a smoky, balanced, surprisingly light “Liquid Taco” that gives you the grilled al pastor and pineapple aromas of LA Taco trucks. The Sweet Vermouth and Mezcal pairing is surprisingly perfect, and is beautifully rounded off with Pineapple and Cinnamon-infused Campari.

Ingredients:

- Mezcal
- Pineapple and Cinnamon-infused Campari
- Sweet Vermouth



Beaverdusa Punch:

A soft, smooth cocktail that reminds you of the falling leaves of Autumn, the Beaverdusa Punch is made from Bourbon, Rye and the Elderflower infused St. Germain. Mixed with light, sea-tasting Japanese Sencha Tea and lemon, to give it a curious twist, and a spicy combination of peppercorn, clove and allspice berries.

Ingredients:

- Bourbon
- Rye
- Scotch
- St. Germain
- Sencha Tea
- Lemon
- Oleo-saccharum


Mr. Blue Sky:

Imagine yourself in a traditional Italian village, in the middle of spring, with a cocktail in your hand. That cocktail is a Mr. Blue Sky. The light, frothy, robin-egg-blue cocktail is the perfect combination of gin, liqueur, lemon, egg-white, Sambuca and evaporated cane sugar, giving you a sweet, floral aroma and a little taste of herbaceous gin. Mmmmm...

Ingredients:

- St. George Botanivore Gin
- Iris Liqueur
- Bitter Truth Violet
- Lemon
- Egg-white
- Evaporated Cane Sugar
- Luxardo Sambuca



Cowboy Killer:

Rich, dark, smoky… Whether you smoke or not, this tobacco-infused drink will have you reminiscing about nights spent next to a roaring campfire. The unique sweetness of Griff’s Cowboy Whiskey, blended with the cinnamon spice of the Chocolate Chili Bitters, gives you a complex taste that you need to sip slowly. And with the typical characteristics of smoking a cig, the tobacco-infused syrup will only contribute to the heady rush of this cocktail.

Ingredients:

- Griff’s Cowboy Whiskey
- Chocolate Chili Bitters
- Tobacco-infused Syrup

Los Muertos:

Just like the Mexican festival that celebrates the day of the dead, Los Muertos is a complex, bitter-sweet cocktail that will leave you crying tears of joy. The bitter-sweet theme is followed through in every ingredient: the exotic, Angostura Bitters-based, cinnamon and liquorice infused Amaro di Angostura, the slightly bitter end of the sweet Montenegro Amaro and the dark chocolate taste of Chocolate Mole Bitters. Cinnamon and spicy, this drink combines old fashioned aromas with trends from the new age.

Ingredients:

- Amaro di Angostura
- Montenegro Amaro
- Chocolate Mole Bitters


Rose Jose:

The general rule is to never mix drinks, and we can imagine that alternating between Tequila and Rose wine might end up badly. But with the Rose Jose, the refreshing, combination is so delicious that the pain might be worth the pleasure. Tequila Blanco and Rose is mixed with rhubarb, pink peppercorn, lemon and seltzer. Beware: it still kicks like Tequila.

Ingredients:

- Rose Wine
- Tequila Blanco
- Rhubarb
- Pink Peppercorn
- Lemon
- Seltzer


Surf Report:

What would Summer be without a little taste of the ocean? Well, now you can taste the beach in a glass with this ocean-inspired cocktail. A gin-based mix with Dry Vermouth, and a sprinkle of black pepper, Surf Report features a unique ingredient, “Salt Air”. A creative replacement for an abrasive salt rim, “Salt Air” uses lime juice, a pair of salts, cucumber juice, mint syrup and Sucro (an emulsifying agent that traps air bubbles and has aerating properties). The drink is refreshingly savoury, and deliciously perfect.

Ingredients:

- Gin
- Lime Juice
- Dry Vermouth
- Mint Leaves
- Cucumber
- Anisette
- Sea Salt
- Black Pepper


Sacred Cow:

If you like creamy, exotic cocktails, this Indian Food inspired drink is for you. The thoughtful blend of creamy and sweet, aromatic ingredients creates an incredible lassi-type texture. Think creamy, velvet sweetness.

Ingredients:


- Sloane’s Gin
- Yoghurt and Apricot Liqueur
- Lemon
- Honey
- Egg-white
- Saffron Bitters
- Pistachio Crumble


Enjoy your summer with a Sexy Summer Cocktail, and Soviet: Your partner in a stylish Summer.

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Soviet Parties in Plettenberg Bay

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28 November 2015 - Students from all over South Africa are flocking to the legendary PlettRage Student Festival for 10 days of non-stop sun, fun and partying.

The longest running, and perhaps the largest student festival in the Southern Hemisphere, PlettRage officially starts on 28 November 2015. With over 15 000 students descending on the small town of Plettenberg Bay, this Summer bash is promising to be a non-stop party for all involved.

With a gorgeous beach, and even better weather, students started flocking to Plettenberg Bay in the early 80’s to celebrate the end of 12 years of hard schooling. Today, more than 30 years later, thousands of students from all over the country still attend the annual event as the young, and young of heart, let loose to the biggest and best of SA’s live and electronic music scene. 

This year is no exception, and organisers have spared no effort in creating a great line-up of bands, epic festival venues, and amazing activities to suit everybody’s tastes. With volley ball, touch rugby, beach soccer and good sunshine, the atmosphere sets the scene for chilling, tuning and relaxing during the day. Music, clubs and beautiful bodies moving to the beat of the drums makes for excitingly exotic nights. It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to school, and hello to the real world.  

The best thing about PlettRage? The sponsors, of course! Following their brand identity, Soviet is bringing a trendy, fashionable feel to the festival. With music booths, beach balls, VanCam’s and more, the popular Denim Apparel brand will definitely make its presence felt. Soviet will also be running various competitions and online activities to help you share your unforgettable memories. 

Catch Soviet in Plettenberg Bay from 28 November - 07 December 2015. 

For more information, visit http://plettrage.co.za/.



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Soviet Roots Itself in Forest Hill City Shopping Mall

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Soviet celebrates the opening of its retail store in 
Forest Hill City Shopping Mall on 
26 November 2015 


On 26 November 2015, Soviet Denim, the premium, on-trend denim and apparel brand, will be debuting their brand new retail store in Centurion. The store will be providing customers with various ranges of the latest denim collections, accessories and footwear for men, women and children.

The store is designed to fall in line with the current “Real People. Real Denim” campaign. With a rustic look and feel, natural textures and a contemporary atmosphere, the interior decor sets the rhythm for a first-class shopping experience.

A unique lifestyle destination, the Soviet store will provide customers the opportunity to discover the art of denim and fashion intertwined with the quality and durability of a true South African brand.

“Perfect for fashion-conscious adults looking for an affordable, quality brand, Soviet offers a wide range of denim apparel that meets with every fashion infatuation in the industry. From shoes and jeans, to shirts, tee’s and accessories, Soviet gives you a true fashion-forward experience,” says Zune Spence of The Soviet Group.

No effort was spared in creating a premium-interior that is on trend and comfortable, mimicking the same experience you would have shopping at a New York City premium retail store. Practically, the store also follows an ergonomic design, making it easier for customers to find what they want.

Serving as a gateway into the world of denim apparel, the Soviet store will celebrate an official grand opening on Thursday, 26 November 2015, with various specials and discounts available on the day, while stock lasts.

Visit Store 141A in the Forest Hill City Shopping Mall, cnr. Maree and Marius street, Centurion for the full denim experience.

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Top 10 Power Denim Adverts That Made the Cut

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From Brooke Shields and Kate Moss, to Flat Eric and some unknowingly brave cowgirl, the past 50 years have brought us many iconic adverts that have not only become well-known, but have also skyrocketed the featuring brand into legendary status.

Soviet pays tribute to the top 10 denim adverts:

Levi’s Laundrette: What do you get when you mix the handsome 80’s model Nick Kamen, some rocks and a Laundrette of women, with a pair of seemingly ordinary jeans? Well, if you are director Roger Lyons, you get one of the most memorable TV adverts ever made. Levi’s nailed this 185 short right on the head with a heady combination of rebellion, sex-appeal and Marvin Gaye’s “Grapevine”.


Brooke Shields: Arguably one of the most controversial child stars of all time, Brooke Shields was a mere 15 years old when she starred in the CK Calvin Klein Jeans commercial. With its innovative imagery and alluring sex appeal, CK set the foundation for an everlasting brand image. The ad also revolutionised the way Denim companies would approach their adverts in the future.


UpUp: Never the type to conform, Diesel launched a series of radically iconic and totally bizarre commercials in the 1990’s. Like most fashion adverts, the “Diesel for Successful Living” dripped with colour and sex appeal. However, Diesel added their signature ironic, absurd and shocking flair to it. The UpUp TV advert was a perfect example of this.


The Wrangler Rodeo: At the heart of the Wrangler heritage, was the old-fashioned American cowboy. This theme was prominent in their advertising throughout the 1980’s and 1990’s. With a humouristic approach, Wrangler showed off their ranch-inspired, durable denims with a fire-fighting, busty blonde capturing the attention of the male market.


The Buddy-Lee Series: Using Lee’s “Buddy Lee” doll as the never-say-die heroic character in a series of adverts, director Frederick Bond created a brand new spin on Denim advertising in the new millennium. Each advert featured Buddy Lee taking on a random challenge, like Go-Karting or Kung Fu, against one of his three nemeses. In an age of sex appeal and almost-naked models, this was definitely something that stood out.


Flat Eric: With the Muppets flourishing, and pop-culture rearing its head from every corner, Bartle Bogle Hegarty created one of Levi’s most popular commercials of all time. Flat Eric and his human accomplice, Angel, are seen cruising the streets while listening to some dirty house tunes. The second installment sees them pulled over by a policeman, and their boot being inspected. The policeman finds nothing but perfectly pressed clothes. The advert, seemingly random, revived Levi’s brand and skyrocketed the Sta-Prest range into fashion.


Marky Mark Wahlberg: It seems Calvin Klein had a pennant for creating controversy behind its advertising campaigns and with Pure American bad-boy, Mark Wahlberg, as their brand representative, the brand did exactly that in the 1990’s. Featuring Mark and relatively unknown model Kate Moss in a provocative advert, Calvin Klein defined the “Heroin Chic” look of the time.


Just On: It isn’t often that a brand inspires a whole song, nevermind a legendary hit song. But it seems that the 1970’s Brutus commercial did just that for singer David Dundas. Produced by Saatchi & Saatchi, the ad was way ahead of its time and made quite an impact on the industry.


Musical Denim: If sex sells, then music sells out. The Gap used this sentiment to their advantage, and in the 1990’s got popular music artist and bands (LL Cool J, Luscious Jackson and Aerosmith) to feature in various commercials. The music did the trick and The Gap made their mark.


Jordache: With the same look and feel as the 1980’s hit movie, The Breakfast Club, mixed with a slightly more sexual CK appeal, Jordache created a number of slightly bizarre TV commercials.


Soviet, a uniquely South African brand, takes inspiration from these great leaders and adds its own Soviet Style to create inspiring advertising that will get your blood pumping in no time. Visit our Soviet stores to get a glimpse of our steaming High Summer 2015 campaign. With gorgeous Soviet clad models, exploring and enjoying life in the hot South African sun, you won't have to go back in time to find your favourite jeans and denim apparel for this Summer.






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Angels on the Catwalk

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Victoria’s Secret models graced the fashion scene with its latest range of lingerie on 10 November 2015. 



Once a year the fashion industry gets together to witness heaven on earth as the famous lingerie fashion brand, Victoria’s Secret, puts its most beautiful models on a catwalk to display their latest creations.

In the 1990’s, Victoria’s Secret started working with renowned models in order to build brand awareness within the industry. The campaign, featuring models such as Stephanie Seymour, Karen Mulder, Yasmeen Ghauri, Jill Goodacre and Frederique van der Wal, took off and soon TV commercials of the girls were featured all across the world.

Angels, one of the brand’s popular lines at the time, was launched in 1997, and with it came the first Victoria’s Secret Angels. Their first runway debut was made in 1998, and from then on became one of the most prestigious projects for any model - a career-maker, as many in the industry call it. Some of the models that have been featured include: Heidi Klum, Miranda Kerr, Gisele Bundchen, Tyra Banks and Alessandra Ambrosio.

On 10 November 2015, in New York City, the fashion brand spared no effort as it celebrated its 20th anniversary, and once again we were graced with the breathtaking pageantry that people have come to expect from the Victoria’s Secret Angels.

From over 500 women auditioning to be part of the special event, only 44 were chosen, including reality TV-star-turned-model Kendall Jenner, as well as best friend Gigi Hadid. Of the 44, a total of 15 models were chosen as Victoria’s Angels, making it the most models selected since the start of the show. These lucky girls included:


1. Adriana Lima


2. Alessandra Ambrosio


3. Behati Prinsloo


4. Candice Swanepoel


5. Lily Aldridge
6. Elsa Hosk
7. Jac Jagaciak
8. Jasmine Tookes
9. Kate Grigorieva
10. Lais Ribeiro
11. Martha Hunt
12. Romee Strijd
13. Sara Sampaio
14. Stella Maxwell
15. Taylor Hill

The Angels, as well as models Joan Smalls, Lais Ribeiro, Martha Hunt, Jasmine Tookes, Stella Maxwell and Monika 'Jac' Jagaciak were featured on the brand's first ever Swim Special.

The show also featured performers Ellie Goulding, Selena Gomez and The Weekend as entertainment, adding more glamour and funk to the highly publicised event (with more than 500 million people tuning in from over 189 countries).

Of course, the event was followed by a celebratory after party, attended by all the models and several high-status celebrities. The after party was held at Tao Restaurant in downtown New York and was decked out in the brand's signature bright pink colour palette.


Model Gigi Hadid at the Victoria's Secret After Party


Model Kendall Jenner at the Victoria's Secret After Party


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Finding True Love in a Pair of Jeans

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What do you do when your favourite jeans are in the wash and, for some inexplicable reason, you find yourself without your fashion go-to for the day?

The answer is easy…

You grab your SO’s favourite pair (it’s what they are there for, right?)!

Boyfriend jeans are a style that we frown upon, but  we all love it deep down. However, it’s not as simple as flinging your boyfriend’s jeans on. Some styles can overwhelm your body and make you look a few kilograms heavier. Other styles might not be appropriate for the season, or might not suit your style at all.

If you’re going to embrace the look, you need to find the right pair to live “happily ever after” in. With these jean-hacks, finding your perfect pair is easier than finding your perfect man:

Petite Frame: 

If you are going to wear these jeans in a baggy, over-sized style without a  tapered ankle, you run the risk of drowning your body, and it looking like you are wearing a potato sack. Try finding a slim/skinny fit with a tapered leg. This will give you that slouchy look, but with a whole lot less material. Also try to avoid awkwardly cropped jeans, as these will make you look shorter.


Tall Frame: 

If you have long pegs, count your blessings. Boyfriend jeans, of any style, were pretty much made for you. A baggy fit will probably suit you best. Wear them slung low on the hips with a tight shirt to give you that chilled-out look. Because you have never-ending under-limbs, you can also wear the jeans cropped, the perfect Summer Style Solution.


Curvy Frame: 

Senorita, don’t be alarmed. If you have Beyonce-style curves, you too can wear boyfriend jeans. Just like the petite girl, stick to a skinny fit with a tapered leg. This will show off your figure, without making you look bigger and shapeless.



Boyish Frame: 

If your figure is more slim and straight (like a ruler), then baggy boyfriend jeans are for you. The extra fabric and cut of the jean will give you more curves and accentuate your flattering figure. Except for the baggy-rule, follow the petite and tall tips, to whichever length describes you best.


Extra Tips:

  1. Make sure the back pockets on slimmer boyfriend jeans are smaller and flattering.
  2. Make sure cropped boyfriend jeans hit at a flattering height on your calves.
  3. The slimmer the cuff at the hem, the longer your legs will look.
  4. Try to avoid large, square shaped pockets. They aren’t flattering from behind.
  5. Try to choose a wash that looks authentic, lived in and real.
  6. Make sure your jeans fit a little tighter to begin with as they will stretch a lot with wear.

If you don't have a pair of boyfriend jeans, or you would like to get your boyfriend his own pair (since you have taken over his), drop in at you nearest Soviet Denim store. With a wide range of denim apparel, it will be like shopping for your perfect partner.

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