The rise of Namibian seamstresses and fashion designers

THE Namibian fashion industry is growing rapidly, with more self-taught designers rising to the challenge of launching their own brands.

Ndeshy Hakaye has a degree in English but she’s passionate about fashion and is the owner of The Silk Street.

The self-taught designer was raised in the small village of Ondudu at Okalongo in the Omusati region.

“My family lineage was full of fashion designers. I believe this contributes to my talent and creativity,” she says.

Hakaye’s journey began in 2018 when she took part in the Namibia University of Science and Technology’s fashion show.

After completing her honour’s degree, she started an editing firm which was unfortunately unsuccessful because of Covid-19.

“I started making silk and satin hair bonnets to cultivate financial freedom for myself, follow my dreams and fulfil my passion of fashion designing,” she says.

After receiving “immense” support, she decided to try her hand at something new.

“I then released a Silk Nightwear Collection that made it through to all four corners of the country. The inspiration behind this collection and my brand at large was to create comfortable and light nightwear for both males and females of all ages,” she adds.

Hakaye says one of the biggest challenges she faces is finding the right fabric for her designs.

“In Namibia, we are limited so much in terms of fabric.”

Unfortunately, there’s not much she can do to about this predicament so she’s often left with no choice but to work with what is available.

“This year, I want to make unique patterns, unique materials and unique designs,” she says.

Similar to Hakaye, self-taught seamstress Julia Shilunga mainly makes satin pillowcases and bonnets.

Speaking to The Namibian, Shilunga says she initially bought her sewing machine to make some pieces for herself but her sister’s friend asked if she could sew bonnets and pillowcases for her.

They eventually parted ways, but the business bug had bitten Shilunga.

“That’s how I ended up starting my own business, Satin Celeste. By then I had gained a little bit of sewing experience and was fairly confident in my work,” she says.

Shilunga’s goal this year is to expand her business.

“To not only focus on making bonnets and pillowcases but satin bed sheets too. I would also love to incorporate satin pyjama sets,” she says.

Marlien Karamata started making her own clothes when she was just in Grade 7.

As a child, the now 20-year-old would make her own swimsuits so that she could join her friends at the pool because her mother could not afford luxuries.

Three months ago, Karamata took a leap of faith and started her business, however, it has not been without challenges.

“Sometimes clients just aren’t pleased with your services, but I’m planning on bettering my offering and becoming better at what I do,” she says.

The business administration student uses her fashion design business, as well as make-up and hairstyling skills to earn an income, take care of herself and pay university fees.

For more information find @the _silk_street, @satin.celeste and @k_.a_.r_.a on Instagram