Mpilwenhle Chembezi, a Bulawayo-based fashion designer, says he wants to make it big in the industry.
Also known as Native Son, the fashion designer’s brand is called Street Aliens Optimistic. He is into embroidery on jeans, shorts and tote bags.
Native Son said his fashion journey began at an early age as he played around with designs until he got immersed in it.
“I started fashion and designing in high school just having fun with my friends then I noticed this could be my inner glow," Native Son told NewsDay Life & Style.
His favourite designers are Yves Saint Laurent and Richard Jeans.
Native Son said his designs were versatile, adding that he liked to explore, with more focus on denim concepts.
He draws inspiration from Instagram influencer and designer Mfanakubo.
“Mfanakubo adds a little sense to my fashion taste. I like the way his outfits are so original that they stand out,” he said.
Native Son wishes to design for celebrities as a way of putting his brand out there, but his clothes are also for youths who are go-getters.
“My target audience is my generation and who wants to stand out from the crowd and make a statement. I would also like to design for Volts Jt in Zimbabwe and Young Gemini," he said.
“I want to be a top designer in the industry and make sure my brand grows. I want to put my city on the map as well as my neighbourhood, Old Pumula. It's not easy to make it out there. You know we come from a pocket of poverty. I don't want to change my lifestyle but rearrange it,” he said.
