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Tafadzwa Zimoyo Entertainment Reporter
Twenty-six-year old fashion designer Simbarashe Ashely Nyambara says he is inspired by art more than societal settings. Nyambara, who is famous for his designs based on totems, has received overwhelming response from both local and international celebrities. The label is called “Totem Pride” and it has T-shirts, vests, hoods neck tags, blazers and jackets among other items. Nyambara said people should be proud of their identity.

“I chose ‘Totem Pride’ because we need to restore the pride in our roots and totems in a unique sense that blends with the current fashion trends of the day.

Our aim is to create something so unique, that has both substance and identity,” he said.

He said the label was the brain child of his brother Thauzeni who is now based in the United Kingdom. “Art inspires us a lot especially on how it translates emotion into different expressions, giving a deeper Afro intrigues of understanding of thoughts, imagination and feelings. We thought of this design together with my brother Thauzeni who is now based in UK and is also doing it from that side,” he said. Nyambara who holds a degree in publishing and information science with NUST said the significance of the label was identity.

“We have clients from far as Bulawayo, Mutare and Chipinge who want to move around donning their totem style for example the Shumba, Soko Murewa, Moyos, Hungwes and Madyirapanzes,” he said. Nyambara said they have dressed artistes such as Nox and Stunner among others. “We are glad that late last year we showcased at the Miss Zimbabwe UK 2013 as we got the opportunity also to dress the models. Locally we have dressed Nox and Stunner’s video “Vavengi”. This is also achieved as we are working with prominent local designer Claire Dongo,” he said.

He cited lack of opportunities to showcase their talent as major challenge.

“Our main challenge has been brand expansion. We are a team of nine of which most of them are based in UK. We need platforms to showcase our wares as most of people are now familiar with the label but the problem is where?” he said.

Nyambara said his was father was his role model.

“Though old, my father is much into fashion and is very supportive. We are now working on taking the label to handbags, sneakers, shoes and jewellery The sky is the limit for us,” he said.