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Tafadzwa Zimoyo Entertainment Reporter
Zimbabwean and regional designers have called for more investment in the country’s fashion industry through the establishment of a fashion council that would develop the cut-throat industry. This came after the confusion which marred the Zimbabwe Fashion Week and SADC Fashion Week held on the same week at different venues. In an interview with The Herald Entertainment, South Africa-based Zimbabwean fashion stylist and designer Ngugi Vere said the country should have its own fashion council to promote upcoming and seasoned designers as well as the tourism sector.

“What we have witnessed during the week was immense talent but the challenge was the confusion on both events. Yes they all were successful but they didn’t give the designers and fashion enthusiasts a treat of choice. We had no choice on where to go and were forced to attend whichever event we had been lucky enough to get invites to,” he said.

Vere, who has a reputable fashion company called Velly Image and Style, said if the country had such a board there will not be double events with the same goal.
“We are not progressing when it comes to fashion in Zimbabwe because every designer is doing his or her own thing. Why having both events during the same week? How can you promote local products at different events that run concurrently? If I were to find out who sits in the board, that’s if it is still functioning, I would be glad to share my sentiments. To be honest as designers we felt disrespected,” he said.

While the country has become a key market for top global fashion brands, it is also a fact that local designers struggle to gain recognition in an industry still governed by international names such as Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton and Chanel.

“We need to have an entity equivalent to the other countries that promotes young designers locally, regionally and internationally,” said another designer Ednah Makoni of OstriAfric-Lounge.

Makoni, who showcased at the SADC fashion week, said the idea of having a board is to counter conflicts and engender appreciation across society.
“At present, many designers are finding it hard to establish their brands in the country if not also in the region. We have the talent and if we get full support, believe you me, our design could bring enormous export-import value for the economy in the future,” she said.

She highlighted that all designers should unite and have one goal.
“I feel excited to take part in the SADC Fashion Week, but feel left out on the Zim Fashion Week because I would have exhibited also at the event. We need opportunity not choice,” she said.

Both fashion shows ran successfully, with glitz and glamourous awards presentations aimed at diversifying the fashion industry, promoting the country and designers.