The Iconic Bomber jacket Trend

The 'Iconic Bomber Iconic Jacket ' is trending in the streets of Southern Africa.Thanks to the 'House of Hohwa' founder

Kuda Matiza (KM).Multi talented designer Kuda Matiza (KM) is interviewed by freelance  journalist Tapiwanashe Rubaya (TR).

During the interview Kuda Matiza highlights the journey that led the 'Iconic Bomber Jacket' to be part of the trend in the fashion sector.

TR:Who is Kuda Matiza?
KM:I am a designer,Creative Director,musician,filmmaker and entrepreneur to summarise it all I am an artist prenuer.Born and raised in Zimbabwe now based in SA.I am fortunate to have found my meaning as an artist and had the opportunity to study music and I am also a film graduate.
I ventured into fashion from the aspect of creation, construction -Design and the love for clothing.The interest came into the aspect of speaking many stories that Africa has put being able to fit them into constructive garments I have worked with.
Influential people in different industries including film,television and music.

TR:What keeps you going in your journey in being a designer?
KM:I am driven by the need to tell stories through design.The need to put across a message.At House of Hohwa we believe in doing things out of the box or beyond the fence as some would say.I am inspired by the richness of the diversity and culture that make up the African continent people are amazing and if I can get everyone's story in a piece of garment then we defiantly have something there.

TR:Take us to the background of 'House of Hohwa'?
KM:House of Hohwa is a personal journey that I made a public because the name 'Hohwa' initially involved everything around me as a artist.
4 years ago I sat down and decided that the brand would be named after the neighbourhood I grew up in Craneborne nicknamed 'Hohwa',but everyone and the connotation is diversity of mushrooms themselves as they come in different sizes,shapes,colour etc.

TR:What makes the designs of House of Hohwa to be unique,comparing to other fashion houses?
KM:Like I said before we think and do beyond the fence.We come up with something new and never been done before.
For example the ' Iconic Bomber Jacket' are our creation.We also try as much as we can to create brand interaction with our followers by giving them something tangible other than the garments.In a fast paced market like today it is important to always stay in contact with your market you will never know what we will do next but when you do you will be blown away.

TR:Your iconic Print Bombers are trending in the world of Fashion.What inspired you to design them?

KM:The iconic Print Bomber like I love to call it is the epitome of street ethnic ethnic,another concept we launched at our official runway launch in 2015.The bomber is a cool item that adds to trends and a look.Its seriously cool I think and that was my thought before I designed it We wanted something different so I got in and made it and it just 'mushroomed'.(laughing).

TR:What do you think has made the iconic bomber jacket to trend?
KM:The print Bomber was the first on the market I'd like to think as a new concept we owned it and gave birth to the idea.It didn't need a lot of work so we just made sure we let people wear it the way they wanted to and it trended I guess.

TR:One might ask who is entitled to wear the iconic bomber jacket?
KM:The print Iconic bomber jacket is unisex item.Anyone can wear it,its a very iconic item which means you will be wearing it in the next few years too.
You will pair it up with a nice pair of jeans,some cool sneakers and just a plain coloured tee.
For the street wear lovers its a chance to just get on fleek!

TR:Where can one buy a the  print bomber?
KM:If you want to get the Bomber for you or someone else (As a great gift) you can go to our social platforms or visit our studio in Braamfontein Jhb.We also deliver anywhere in the world.

TR:Which fashion shows has the iconic bomber jacket been showcased in and how has the out come been?
KM:The print bomber jacket was on our own runway,when we launched the 'Winds of Change' collection earlier  this year.The plan is to launch it globally in future fashion events.
People love these and some are willing to sell a kidney for it (laughing).At the launch of WOC17 we had a couple of them bought straight from runway.The response is amazing.

TR:state some celebrities who have woren the print bomber jacket?
KM:We have a few people who are celebs or influential in their own spheres that one or a couple,these are Dereck Badze an entrepreneur,Hastings Nyirenda a great musician and well known Drummer.
Rapper A-reece also owns one.The  famous Great
Moscow Circus also owns a couple for their performances.

TR:After the print bomber jacket,what's next to trend from
Kuda Matiza?
KM:The print bomber is part of the Winds Of Change Collection17 and we are pushing the rest of it this whole year.There are some really out of the box sophisticated designs featured on this collection.On what will trend?I really can't say but something will defiantly.

Ins&twitt:@houseofhohwa ;FB:House of hohwa
FB:Kuda Matiza official  email:houseofhohwa@gmail.com

David Alford Release His Autumn/Winter 17 Look Book&Campaign.

David Alford is one of the biggest fashion brands in Zimbabwe's fashion industry owned by David Alford (DV).
In an interview with Tapiwanashe Rubaya (TR),David Alford  shares some of his experience that he has faced since he ventured in the fashion industry,he also talks about his brand's autumn/winter 2017 look book campaign.

_I had a very strong and explosive entry onto the Zimbabwe Fashion circuit, something which was created I think by peoples intrigue into the house. I was_

TR:Define your self
DA: I make clothes with a passion for drama and emotion. 

TR:When did you  started to have a vision of becoming a fashion designer?
DA:I discovered Fashion at the age of 15, where I quickly fell in love with the avante garde/ theatrical side to Fashion. That idea of being able to make an audience go through emotions as if they were sitting in a theatre rather than a Fashion Show. Having always had an interest in music, theatre and then clothing, it seemed to be the right avenue to take to be able to combine all three in creating my own world. 

TR:What challenges that you faced when you started in the industry?
DA: A key challenge for me to begin was to break the initial ideas associated with Fashion in Zimbabwe, I found many people never took it as a serious industry/ profession, something I personally feel has changed for myself over the last two years. 

TR:Is there someone in the fashion industry you look up to? And why that person?
DA: There are several people I look up to in the Fashion Industry however I find it hard to aspire to any individual as everyones journey in this industry is so varied. My greatest influencers would have to be designers such as Galliano, Van Herpen & Mcqueen, as they have a fearless approach to their work and stay true to Fashion being an art form, something I feel very strongly about. 

TR:How has travelling influenced your work in the fashion industry?
DA: I think the biggest thing I have experienced by travelling internationally is a certainty of what we produce as a house is of good standards, but instead of relaxing into this confidence it has actually driven me to become more pedantic over every detail of our work. It is very easy to allow standards to slip and travelling has definitely reenergised me and made me a lot more confident and daring. 

TR:What is your personal relationship with Harare's fashion industry?
DA: I had a very strong and explosive entry onto the Zimbabwe Fashion circuit, something which was created I think by peoples intrigue into the house. I was certainly welcomed with open arms and Fashion in Zimbabwe will always be in my heart, sadly this year I feel we have slightly left it behind because of outside commitments but hopefully this will be put right towards the end of this year, with some exciting projects coming up. 

TR: You recently released your autumn/winter 2017 look book and campaign tell us more about it?
DA. The Autumn/Winter 17 Look Book & Campaign kind of brings the collection and the first half of 2017 to a close. The Campaign which was photographed by Mike Wall, is a billboard for the brand for the next few months, a mood setter for what clients can see in the Alford showroom etc. As the collection was inspired by the demise of the Great Barrier Reef, I wanted to create a simple yet dramatic mood for the Campaign, so we Pixelised the images to emphasis that feel of decay and destruction. 

TR:Where can your fans buy your collections?
DA: Our collections are sold exclusively through our showroom & Studio, however this collection is slightly different as all the fabric is produced individually for each garment so we are working on a pre order custom made basis. 

TR:Is there any runway which your collection hasn't been showcased in,which you dream to showcase your designs ?
DA. I never thought thatIwould make it to such an event like New York Fashion Week so in a way the dream has been reached in at least some respect. However the ultimate dream is to show in Paris, that is definitely the ultimate goal. 

TR:Next year February it will be a special month for you as you will be showcasing in New York what should your fans expect from you.
DA. I cant say too much about what we have in store for New York Fashion Week in February just yet, however all I can say is it will definitely be our biggest and most daring collection to pull off as of yet.

AMMFI INTERNATIONAL CELEBRATES WOMEN IN FASHION INDUSTRY THIS WOMEN'S MONTH.

 When it comes to fashion industry across the globe,women have played a

major role in the fashion industry.Through their various designs they

have used the platform raising their voices advocating for peace

around the globe for empowerment and stop child a women abuse.

The Afrikan Fashion Tv took time to profile some women who are playing

a major role in the industry.

 *Tapiwa Dingwiza (Zimbabwean designer/based in Uk)*
Tapiwa Dingwiza is the owner of the S.Vingo which was established in
2016.Her fashion brand deals with  Luxury menswear and womenswear.
The S.Vingo brand is prominent for using traditional Savile Row tailoring.
Tapiwa's first menswear collection was inspired by her childhood and
experience hence it's defined by craftsmanship.
Tapiwa has showcased at Zimbabwe Fashion Showcase Uk,her two outfits
have featured in Vogue Magazine and she has won 'Fashion Designer of
the year' during the Women For Africa awards also during the
2017 Zim archiever UK awards,Tapiwa Dingwiza was recognised as the
'Fashion Designer of the year.



 *Anita Berly (Berly Qouture) Ghana*
Berly Qouture brand is a prominent for embracing,femininity,romance etc
The brand has dressed a number of celebs including Kansiime Anne.It
has also put a smile to many brides.
Anita Berly who is the founder of the brand.She has showcased in Spain at the
 Barcelona Fashion Week,Mashafrika design and style week,Accra Fashion
Week.Anita Berly last year was honoured as the fashion designer of the
year (Uganda) during the ASFA 2016 awards,during the  Swahili fashion
week under the East African Designer of the year and she won the
award.
This year Anita Berly was nominated for the 'Young Achievers Awards
2017' under the Creative Arts Fashion 2017,where she was contesting up
against the ASFA founder Ahumuza Brian.

By Tapiwa Rubaya

AFRICAN FASHION WEEK TORONTO TURNS 5.

 

 The African Fashion  Week Toronto is to emerge on Wednesday the 16th
of August in Toronto, Canada.
The opening day will be marked by the annual red carpet then will be
followed by a fashion show,which will be hosted by seven local student
designers.

Where by the the 1st and second winners will be entitled to win brand
new sewing machines courtesy of AFWT's official sewing machine sponsor
Janome Canada.
The following 3 days which is from the 17th to the 19th,Toronto will
be a home to more than 30 fashion designers from across the world who
will be showcasing their premium collections inside Royal Ontano
Museum.
Tanzanian designer Diana Magesa and New York  based Filipino designer
John Ablaza are to grace the event as yo mark the 5th celebrations of
the event and they are expected to showcase their collections .
Besides the fashion runways shows there will be a ceremony for awards
on the 19th.AFIA (African Fashion Industry Awards)will honour Soul
train music awards winner Jidenna the 'fashion icon award' and the
Canadian Supermodel and activist Yasmin Warsame (2017 Model Excellence
award).
The awards ceremony will close their curtains with a spectacular
runway shows by the "King of Couture" and Celebrity Designer Adebayo
Jones.
The African Fashion Week Toronto was established in 2013 with the
mandate of promoting and advocating education of the fashion arts and
business by providing scholarships and internships and mentor ships.

By Tapiwa Rubaya

Thula Sindi,Quintee and George are amongest The Designer's To showcase at The Jhb MBFW this season.

 From the 16th next week the city of 'Gold' will be a home for all
fashion lovers,as the city will be hosting its annual
Mercedes Benz Fashion Week JHB.
Fashion lovers will get to know,what will be hot in the fashion industry.
The line up of designers has a total of 44 designers who include Thula
Sindi who will be showcasing on the 21st of August and Quiteria and
George whose collection will be on the runway on the 17th.Africa
Fashion magazine profiled two fashion houses who are going to showcase
their designs during the show.

Quiteria and George
Quiteria kekana and George Malelu are the brains behind the fashion
house Quiteria and George Luxury Fashion brand.
The two meet at the Mpumalanga Fashion Week in 2013,then they
established their fashion brand 'Quiteria and George Luxury fashion
brand'.
The duo has dressed Terry Pheto,Siphokazi January,
Jessica Nkosi,Nandi Ingoma,Boity Thulo etc.
This year during the Capetown Mercedes Benz Fashion show they
showcased their 16 piece A/W 2017.In June Quiteria and George released
their collection 'Jet'aime Madam
(We love women) in French.
During the Mercedes Benz Fashion JHB they will showcase their
collections on the 17th of August in the evening.
FB:Quiteria and George
Twi/Ins:@Quiteria_George



Thula Sindi
Having dressed the likes of Terry Pheto and others.Is a young
multi award South African fashion designer whose prominent known for
designing ready to wear and glamour items that highlight the
expression of a woman.
Since his 2012 Mercedes Benz showcase his brand future has been viewed
by many as 'bright'.
Thula Sindi has showcased in Hong Kong,Beijing,New York,Lagos and Paris.
Sindi has also showcased in local shows leaving the spectators in awe.
His fashion label is found at several boutiques in South Africa and
some international fashion lovers have flocked in SA to search for his
designs.
Email:thulasindi@gmail.com

David Tlale and Stefania Moorland and Shana Morland are some of the
designers who are to showcase their designs during the show.For one to
attend tickets prices range between R100 and
R300 per.

EXCLUSIVE ONE ON ONE WITH TANZANIA'S FASHION ICON SHERIA NGOWI.

 _Well,my designs are heavily influenced by the past.So I blend modern

trends with the classic vintage looks and incorporate numerous

colors.That is the main difference,trying to be playful with menswear

which is quite rare in the fashion world as of now._

Fashion designer Sheria Ngowi's designs are an inspiration to both
upcoming and those who have been in the fashion industry for years.
Being one of the designers that are going to be showcasing their
designs during the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Jhb 17.
Sheria Ngowi (SN) reveals to Tapiwa Rubaya (TR) what his collection is about.

TR:Define Sheria Ngowi Brand?
SN:Sheria Ngowi Brand is a luxurious and sophisticated yet from
another time.We made our designs for men who are sophisticated,there
was no lack of restraint in the shapes or in the looks,We offered a
collection where every detail is accentuated,making men look good
without ever giving them an affected or ridiculously disguised
look.Our Suits are classic and well built Daring youthful
silhouettes.Uses of slim-fit check and plain shirts,slim ties and bow
ties are details that make our brand and designs simple and
unique;glasses and bags contribute to the image of a refined,relaxed
man.

TR:Take us to the bio of your fashion brand?
SN:Sheria Ngowi is my name;one of my long term plans was that I wanted
to create a brand that would tell a story and connect with my vision
and myself.It's hard to be a name and a brand at the same time.
The history of fashion is filled with designers who put their names on
the label like me because in the fashion industry,more so than almost
any other industry,is driven by individuals;individuals who capture
the essence of a desired persona with their unique clothing and
accessory designs.Individuals whose very names evoke images of glamour
and style.Individuals whose names have become famous international
corporate brands like Burberry,Chanel,Gucci,Prada and Versace.Most
people hear these words and think of things, not individuals. But
let's not forget, these words are the names of individuals as Sheria
Ngowi because by adding your name on a label; it becomes a trademark;
it is a primary asset of any other fashion brand.So my career famously
began in 2008 when I debuted my designs for both women and men under
Brand name Sheria Na Mavazi in Mysore,India.So Sheria Na Mavazi stands
for Dressing Principles or Regulations.In 2009,I launched my first
professional collection under my own name Sheria Ngowi Designs.The
Collection was a dedication to my late father who was the driving
force behind my love for fashion.In 2013 I launched my first flagship
store in the heart of Dar Es Salaam and followed by International
Fashion weeks I attended from New York,London,Paris and South Africa
since 2013 until now 2017.Now I decided to focus on one gender at a
time to ensure that I put my all into each of the collections and the
women's collection is on the way in 2018.


TR:You are to showcase at the MBFW17 Jhb;what are you expecting from the public?
SN:My current collection "LEGACY" I put 150% in each and every piece
in this line,I have been a little more adventurous.The use of
different fabrics and cut choice,as well as how the pieces have been
made,are all a little different to my norm.I love all of them.I am
exhilarated about showcasing my line for the fourth time and have a
great sense of expectancy.I look forward to appreciating the creative
work of other great designers as well as stirring up some fresh
excitement around the 'Sheria Ngowi' brand, specifically amongst the
South African market.


TR:What is the name of the collection that you showcased?
SN:"LEGACY"

TR:Take us through the collection that you will showcase and its inspiration?
SN:"LEGACY"-For many,leaving a legacy is associated with the end
rather than the beginning or the next phase in one’s career.My Fashion
leadership is not shaped and my legacy is not defined at the end of
the road but rather by the moments shared,the decisions made,the
actions taken,and even the mistakes overcome throughout the many
phases of my career.Leadership done rightly is a reinvention process;a
continuous discovery that informs my mindset,new skill sets and
aptitudes.At each stage of my career,I learn how to keep creating
sustainable impact and influence.With each step i take,i will identify
new ways of mastering the fundamentals,which in turn provides me with
greater clarity and depth of thought to further improve my fashion
leadership approach and communication style.As a Fashion Designer and
entrepreneur,I have learnt of my Country backwardness and its
underlying factors.This brings a lot of challenges if I want to
promote my country but as long as I take my mind off the negative
factors,I can be successful in completing my duty.Many people leave
Tanzania because of their poor condition and settlement.I understand
that I should not think of migrating to foreign countries but help to
make Tanzania a destination country for others.To achieve that,I must
working hard.The previous generation made Tanzania a good place for us
to call home and today,it is my generation’s turn to make it even
better for the future generations to live in.


TR:The suits you design are unique.what makes them to be unique from your view?
SN:Well,my designs are heavily influenced by the past.So I blend
modern trends with the classic vintage looks and incorporate numerous
colors.That is the main difference,trying to be playful with menswear
which is quite rare in the fashion world as of now.

TR:The texture /fabrics  that you use for your designs are they local?
SN:Not 100% Made-in-Africa because specifying the country in which a
good was produced has long been a marker of quality. The ateliers of
France, leather workers of Italy and watchmakers of Switzerland have
built global reputations for their exacting standards. Today, ‘Made
in’ labelling is also an indicator of the regulations and health,
safety and wage standards under which a good was produced.
But in a world with increasingly complex supply chains that can span
several countries, a jacket sold by a European brand can be
manufactured in a cheap and relatively unregulated labour market like
China or Africa, but finished and packaged in France, Italy or
Tanzania, thereby earning a ‘Made in France’ 'Made in Italy’ or ‘Made
in Tanzania’ label.
Indeed, according to European Union regulations,companies need only to
spend a certain amount manufacturing a good in a certain country in
order to qualify for local ‘Made in’ labeling.At the same time,
powerful alternative labeling systems, like Fair-trade and Certified
Organic, have emerged, offering companies new tools for communicating
manufacturing standards to consumers, who are increasingly concerned
with the provenance of their goods.

TR:Last year you won an award (Fashion icon of the year)during the
Tanzanian leadership awards and you were nominated for the ASFA
awards.What did it mean to you and your brand?
SN:Of course,it’s not enough to simply win an award;i need to earn it
every day.At every interaction,both internal and external,I need to
exemplify the reasons I deserve that recognition.This creates a
positive feedback loop. Doing good work, and getting recognized for
it, improves my workforce,strengthens my brand and gets me more sales
from loyal customers.

TR:Tell us about your work ethics?
SN:I'm not into fashion show pageantry but in the reality of a
product:I design and produce clothes that will be worn by real
people.The fashion industry is a system that produce a lot waste and
thrives on exploitation.We try to have strong work ethic and stir away
from that traditional business model.We produce all of our clothes in
Asia and Africa.We try to work with high quality fabrics
from:cotton,wool, linen and velvet.


TR:Where do you see your brand in 5 years?
SN: I love the history of my brand I want to bring a modern twist and
I have to move on. As the founder wouldn't still be repeating what I
was doing from 2008-2016.
I want to bring a fresh element to it while cultivating the true DNA
of the brand.All aspects should be modern and fresh.Clothes are a
communication tool and I want to create something special.
I see my brand being eligible to apply for all the important Fashion
weeks hosted around the world and i am looking forward to being a part
of it.My biggest wish is to leave a legacy with my name appeared in
all International Fashion Platforms,so that my grand kids and their
friends could see that it is okay to follow a belief and for my
country to be proud of me as a Tanzanian."

TR:Thank you for you time.
SN:Asante sane/THANK YOU VERY MUCH”


www.sheriangowi.com
Instagram: @sheriangowi
Twitter:@sheriangowi
Facebook:Sheria Ngowi Brand
[08:05, 8/15/2017] Tapiwanashe Jor: Thula Sindi,Quintee and George To
showcase at The Jhb MBFW

From the 16th next week the city of 'Gold'

Zimbabwe Fashion Designer Engages In Wildlife Management Projects

Thembani Mubochwa (TM) who is an award winning Zimbabwean fashion

designer who has changed the world of the African Fashion industry.

Tapiwanashe Rubaya (TR) caught up with Thembani Mubochwa who explains

how his fashion career is working with the Ministry of Climate,Water

and Wildlife in his country.

' I have been privileged to have to be appointed the National Elephant
Ambassador of Zimbabwe'

TR:Who is Thembani Mubochwa ?
TM:Thembani Mubochwa is a young Zimbabwean Fashion designer.I was born
and raised in Zimbabwe.

TR:Take us to your journey in the fashion industry?
TM:I started my journey in the High Density suburb of
Glen Norah sitting at my uncle's feet at his small tailoring
business.That journey landed me in South Africa's leading
A listers including the likes of the late Sifiso Ncwane.

TR:What defines your work?
TM:My work is defined by my African Roots and desire to merge them
with modern fashion concepts.

TR:You work closely with the ministry of Water,Climate and Environment
(Wildlife) of your country.What is your role when it comes to Wildlife
advocating?
TM:I have been privileged to have to be appointed the National
Elephant Ambassador of Zimbabwe an ambassador for the Zimbabwe
National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority.
This is a  role I take seriously as I have been mandated to raise
awareness around key conservation issues and to engage young
Zimbabweans to take a greater interest and be more involved in
safeguarding our wildlife and environment.

TR: Recently you were involved in an event which was hosted by
Afro Jumbo Trust.Tell us more about the event and what it achieved ?
TM:The Afro jumbo Trust recently held a fundraising dinner and fashion
show dubbed dinner under the stars.
The dinner was in aid of the extension and interpretation of national parks.
The aim was to purchase motorbikes for the department which is
responsible for community engagement and public awareness particularly
in the area of Human Wildlife Conflict we managed to receive pledges
for 3 off road bikes which we await delivery.

TR:When it comes to Vodacom Durban July Fashion,TMZ has never
disappointed its clients and fans tell us where do you get your
inspiration from?
TM:The inspiration comes from a desire to always go further and be
bigger and bolder than before.Never get satisfied just doing the same
thing over and over again.

TR:Last year TMZ collaborated with award winning stylist
 Craig Zooiwe.What role has the collabo played in your journey as TMZ?
TM:The collaboration with Craig Zooiwe was an exciting exploration of
fashion through the eyes of a different subject.Craig is a leading
stylist in Zimbabwe and it was interesting to discover and work with
his take on various fashion and style elements.

TR:When are you releasing your next collection?
TM:I have started work on the next collection but the release date
will be determined by the creative process and where it takes me.

TR:Any international/local fashion shows that TMZ will be showcasing
their collections?
TM:There are some events in the pipeline some that we have previously
participated at others  new but it is still to early to confirm
anything.

TR:Where do you see TMZ in years to come?
TM:I see TMZ as a brand that will take its position among leading
fashion brands in Africa.