Jacques van der Watt's highly conceptual brand, which values the form and functionality of clothing over the frivolity of trends, has for over a decade helped forge a contemporary identity for South African fashion.

CNN: Why African designers are finally in the fashion spotlight

Equally uncertain, they say, is whether the Lebanese government has the power or the will to forge a consensus once the fighter is over.

NPR: Lebanon's Government Hobbled by Political Structure

Plenty of skepticism remains over whether lawmakers will be able to forge an agreement, though there is some hope that the clouds could lift after Election Day.

FORBES: Treasury To Hit Borrowing Limit By Year-End As Fiscal Cliff Endgame Draws Closer