BULAWAYO-BASED fashion designer, uMthobi Sibanda is set to raise the country’s flag high for the second time at the forthcoming Windhoek Fashion Week set for November in the Namibian capital.
At the fashion extravaganza, Sibanda will have an opportunity to network with international fashion designers and power African brands.
Sibanda, who was also part of exhibitors at the fashion show last year told NewsDay Life & Style that he was happy to be continuously invited to showcase his Indwangu by Umthobi clothing brand at such a prestigious fashion showcase.
“Indwangu is my brand name I have been working on and it’s almost a year now. I am definitely looking forward to participating at the Windhoek Fashion Week in Namibia this year,” he said.
“The Windhoek Fashion Week brings together different industry-related individuals such as fashion designers, jewellery crafters, models, media stylists and show producers, among others.”
Sibanda, a Bulawayo Polytechnic graduate, said his participation at the fashion show in November last year greatly improved his brand.
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“After attending Windhoek Fashion Week last year, new markets opened, the event gives emerging and well-established designers a platform to flaunt talents and reach a larger audience,” he said.
“I want to make a name in this fashion design industry. I am already counting my greatest achievements as having showcased at Windhoek Fashion Week and got a nomination as an Outstanding Fashion Designer at the Bulawayo Arts Awards held in November last year.”
Sibanda said he was aiming to develop and grow his career.
“Also, I want to try and set my portfolio for the Durban Fashion Fair, set for South Africa in July. They always host great fashion shows, which is great as a marketing tool on my side,” he said.
Sibanda bemoaned the failure by many in society to respect and pay what designers are worthy.
“Fashion is a competitive industry, you don’t slay, you don’t stay. I stay abreast of the industry trends through the internet and my designs are influenced by the mood I am in, seasons and above all how much I am getting after,” he noted.
“My strength as a designer is definitely research, conceptualising and a good eye in fabrics.”
Locally, Sibanda has worked with top socialites such as Madam Boss, dressed Doctor Bae, Sduduzo Mphoko, worked on red carpets and dressed brides.