Seeing African authenticity on the international runway is probably one of the best fashion moments.
Proudly South African brand Zazi Clothing Factory made Mzansi proud as they showcased at New York Fashion Week.
Owned by Onwaba Simanye Sishuta, the brand showcased a stunning collection of luxurious Umbhaco (Xhosa traditional attire). Some of the dresses were giving classic queen vibes but in Umbhaco.
South African actress Lusanda Mbane, ambassador of the brand, led the pack on the runway.
She strutted her stuff in the exquisite Umbhaco dress paired with a thick beaded necklace and a doek. She kept the crowd captivated even more when she started doing umxhentso (Xhosa traditional dance).
“We brought ZAZI to the world… and we did it our way, the African way, the ZaziI way. 🇿🇦 Take a bow, Queen 👑 @onwabamleve … this range was absolutely exquisite! World Class,” said the “Smoke and Mirrors” star.
Launched in 2018, Zazi started as an NPO called The Ark Foundation, making school uniforms at reasonable prices for parents who could not afford them.
Sishuta then got a spiritual calling and was guided by her ancestors on what to make of her brand, and that’s how Zazi came about.
“We make Umbhaco fashionable. We make it fit to your everyday wear and even attract other cultures to feel good in our traditional attire.
“When you align with who you are, everything falls into place and to align, you must first know who you are (Zazi) and be proud to have a touch of who you are in your everyday wear,” Sishuta told “Go Express”.
Their showcase at New York Fashion was well received by supporters of the brand.
“Our ancestors are dancing with pride. At this point we are unstoppable,” commented @asa_____m/
∎ New York Fashion Week started on February 9 and runs until Wednesday.