Zimbabwe, a hub of creativity and style in Africa, boasts an array of talented fashion designers who are making waves both locally and on the global stage. Their designs, deeply rooted in Zimbabwe’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, showcase a unique blend of innovation and tradition. In celebration of the country’s independence, let’s explore seven outstanding sustainable brands from Zimbabwe that are reshaping the fashion landscape.
1. Haus of Stone: A Synthesis of Slow Fashion and Afro-Minimalism Founded in 2014 in Harare by DANAYI MADONDO Chapfika Madondo, Haus of Stone stands as a beacon of Afro-minimal fashion. Danayi, a graduate of LISOF in South Africa, rebranded her company in 2016 to reflect its unique African ethos. The brand gained acclaim for its 2020 fashion film ‘The Therapy of Fashion,’ and has been featured in notable publications like Vogue and Glamour Magazine. With accolades such as nominations at the Zimbabwe International Women’s Awards, and participation in events like the British Council Creative DNA at London Fashion Week, Haus of Stone truly represents where fantasy meets reality.
2. Farai Simoyi: The Epitome of Global Fashion Influence A trailblazer in the fashion industry, British-Zimbabwean Farai Simoyi has established her brand in New York, earning admiration from celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike. A graduate of West Virginia University, Simoyi founded Narativ house in 2017, focusing on ethically-sourced artisan products. Her participation in Netflix’s ‘Next in Fashion’ and her vibrant, bold designs have earned her features in prestigious outlets like Vogue and Essence, solidifying her status as a top designer.
3. Tapfumanei Munenge: The King of Haute Couture in Zimbabwe Tapfumanei Munenge, a Zimbabwean fashion visionary, is renowned for his bold and innovative designs. His haute couture pieces, celebrated for their unique tailoring and powerful silhouettes, embody a blend of fantasy and reality. A graduate of Chinhoyi University of Technology, Munenge continues to redefine Zimbabwean fashion with his groundbreaking creations.
4. Vanhu Vamwe: Crafting Handbags with a Cultural Touch Vanhu Vamwe, a brand created by the designer duo Simba Nyawiri and Pam Samasuwo-Nyawiri, specializes in handcrafted handbags that bridge culture and ethnicity through design. Their work has been showcased at international fashion weeks and featured in Vogue, embodying the essence of ‘one people’ with each piece.
5. Natai Natai: Redefining Resort Wear with Sustainability Founded by Cheryl Nyasha Johnson, Natai Natai emerged from the intersection of art and fashion. Cheryl, a former photographer with a background in Business Administration and Art History, launched her resort wear label in 2019. The brand focuses on sustainable, chic designs that celebrate the feminine form.
6. Fungai Muzoroza: Beyond the Boundaries of Fashion Sarah Fungai Muzoroza, the founder of the Fungai label and the co-founder of FungaiXRufaro, extends her creative expertise to interior design, photography, and graphic design. Her brand, known for its unique and unboxable designs, reflects her multifaceted artistic vision. Her solo art exhibition ‘The Braided Birthmark’ in 2022 was a testament to her diverse talents.
7. Patch Moekoe: Crafting Joy with #Feelgoodbags Chido Kaseke’s Patch Moekoe is more than just a brand; it’s a mission to bring happiness through its unique handmade bags. Employing underprivileged artisans, Patch creates distinctive hessian fabric bags, showcasing the brand’s commitment to sustainability and community empowerment. Featured in the Birmingham Spring Autumn Fair, Patch Moekoe is a testament to Zimbabwean craftsmanship and ethical fashion.
Discover these seven incredible brands from Zimbabwe, each with its unique story and approach to sustainable fashion, and embrace the rich tapestry of African culture and innovation in your wardrobe.
