VAKWETU STYLE

iNAMi | IT'S A LEATHER THING

2017-11-03T15:06:00.000+02:00

“iNAMi” means LOVE and derives from one of the oldest native languages in Namibia. It was especially created for the local Namibian market and aims to bring Namibia to the World, and the World to Namibia through the practice of popup events that have the flair of an international artistic lounge.

iNAMi is definitely a Vakwetu favourite. We stumbled on this brand a about a year ago and fell in love. A great team with drive and determination to produce an excellent product, which they have succeeded in doing.

Leather is what they specialise in. They have such a wide variety of bags, clutches and satchels. If you love a leather bag. They have one for you.

You want to slay with a cute clutch on the red carpet? They got you. From everyday totes to bags for the workplace which could also double up as look , when you are on a night out with the girls.

This truly Namibian product is definitely worth the price tag. only the highest quality leather is used and the finest materials to go with it. Attention to detail is not wasted on any product that comes out of the production line. A big high five goes out to their designers and team. Well done.

Catch them showcasing at Windhoek Fashion Week 2017 alongside House of Poulton

Visit them on their site : iNAMi and shop the looks.

SHE CAME TO SLAY , IT'S SLEAH | LEAH MISIKA

2017-09-15T13:40:00.000+02:00

It's Leah Misika, or better known by her name in these fashion streets, SLEAH because she slays.
Our very own Namibian blogger and fashionista made her way to the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin

KARIBU FLOWERS | SAY ( I'M SORRY * I LOVE YOU * THANK YOU * BAE ) WITH ROSES

2017-06-30T12:30:00.000+01:00

We all have those moments when we are just at a loss for words. Whether it be because you have messed up ( forgot an anniversary or birthday ), want to just appreciate someone ( for just being everything ), condolences or just want to make someones day but words don't come easy or they just leave you when you need them most , like the tellers at home affairs or data when you are trying to upload that fire picture to the gram. Jokes aside...

Why don't you just SAY IT WITH ROSES?

If you have not been to KARIBU FLOWERS yet, please do yourself and whoever's good books you are trying to scam your way back into, a favour. Not only is the shop a visual dream to walk into, your olfactory senses are taken to aroma heaven with the array of beautiful flower arrangements.

Karibu Flowers is a definite must on your "Places to get beautiful gifts from" list.

But let's get into this. Why Karibu Flowers?

It's a #FLOWERBOX

Karibu Flowers and Candles is home to Namibia’s first flowerbox, a distinctive design concept that uses luxurious hat boxes (paper boxes) to host floral arrangements. Our flower box is a simple yet luxurious statement piece designed to be used as a vase and will compliment any space.

The box is #MULTIFUNCTIONAL

The flowerbox can also be reused as a jewellery box, gift box, once its contents have perished.

Do you need anymore reasons to pay a visit?

Come on! Say I'm sorry. Say thank you. Make someone's day. Do yourself a favour and say it with KARIBU FLOWERS!

Find them on Social Media : Instagram @karibu_flowers_candles
Website: Karibu Flowers

A FLORAL BLAST | NDAPCEE | SS2017

2017-06-22T13:00:00.000+01:00

You guys have long known the love we have for this amazing, young designer. Having recently graduated from UNAM. Her passion for art was evident even while she was studying. Be it Visual art or fashion, NDAPCEE never disappointed us.

A few weeks ago we started seeing glimpses of something new. Patterns, florals, prints to die for. They were so extra but simply beautiful in their extraness. NDAPCEE started teasing us by posting short clips on social media but you know Vakwetu was quick to snatch up the exclusive and so we did.

Running up my stairs, looking like she just stepped of the pages of an AFROPUNK editorial. Ndapcee casually jumps onto my couch and whips out the images. I gave a ReDBuLL to get her going and said " SPILL THE TEA". What is this collection all about?

NDAPCEE SS/17 is a vintage eccentric collection mainly inspired by the fashion of the late 70's to early 80's
Think 80's, Romance and Prints. BOLD FLORALS is the look we were going for.

This collection was designed for the sophisticated , experimental , young vibrant and urban woman.
And yes, there are mens pieces as well

There are looks for every personality from swimsuits, urban chic, office wear and a night out on the town. Garden tea party perhaps? Yes, we got you!

There is literally a piece for everyone

So, there you have it from the fab lady herself. You want the look? You got it. Just make sure it suits what you are going for. Can we just say that we absolutely love this right here and we eagerly wait on the next sizzle she produces.

NATURALE | FOOD FOR YOUR SKIN

2017-06-01T13:00:00.000+01:00

Most of us have fought with our skin at one time or another. Then there are those of you who are just blessed with that fabulous glow that comes from who knows where. You keep saying it's just water but we know your tricks. Jokes! Water is a definite plus when its comes to great skin care. Drink It!

We end up spending thousands on product which may or may not work and I'm not saying you should stop using what works for you but at the end of the day all these products claim to have some sort of "essence of nature" or organic product in them. So, I guess nature is the key to great skin, or just super amazing genes. but seeing that we don't all have those, let's ask our girl Mother Nature for some help.

I was recently stumbled upon brand Naturale, a Namibian owned organic skin care line. I have already started using it and can already feel the difference. As I wait for the effects to show ( that fabulous glow and clear skin ) and obviously there will be a blog post about the results with images. but all I can say now is that your start to feel a difference for the word go but enough of me let's find out what this actually is..

"Naturale consists of two products : oil made from sweet almonds blended with coconut oil in its purest form and the scrub is made from Naturale oil and cocoa powder.

We recommend the use of both products for clean skin. The scrub is a deep cleanser and exfoliator which aides in preventing acne breakouts, evens out your skin tone deeply hydrates and softens your skin The oil reduces the appearance of stretch marks and is an excellent moisturiser for skin and hair, it also prevents hair breakage.

The oil contains Vitamin E, a nutrient and antioxidant essential in helping neutralise free radicals, which damage cells.

Why organic skincare?
Natural skincare products are better for the environment and have the ability to restore your skin to good health with the use or dangerous chemicals."

*For product queries or orders please send a WhatsApp message or call 0818922129*

THE PLUS CULTURE | WHITNEY GREYTON

2017-03-17T13:58:00.000+02:00

In a world where "Long Hair, Thin Waist and Thick booty" is the standard of beauty, it is also very important for us to bring to light that, beauty comes in many shapes and sizes. Now we focus on the one that I feel is most judged... The Plus Sized girls. Which brought about the term, The Plus Culture. I had a sit down and picked the brain of Whitney Greyton, who herself is a woman with more body to give and absolutely beautiful and decided to make that work for her even though "The World" has other things to say. She established The Plus Culture .

Why the plus culture?

We used to go by “The plus Life&Style”, but because of some technical glitches and help from a genius in the office it became “culture” because it has to do with EVERYTHING about being fat and plus size. From fashion, to health and fitness, to dating to beauty and most of all having important dialogue. Dialogue that will push our agenda further which is that; no matter what your size you can and should love the shape and size you’re at NOW.

What inspired you to run with something like this?

Being a huge fan of American plus size bloggers and seeing the movement grow there, I wasn’t seeing that happen here and knew I could create that for myself and others. It grew from a deep intention to create an inclusive space for fat/plus people to just BE. A place where they can see themselves represented and so that living and loving in a fat body can be normalized to themselves and to society as a whole. We’re not just “existing while in transition to skinniness” even though that’s what society would have us believe.

In a world of long hair, big bust , tiny waist and longer legs is all that people see, how important is it to bring The Plus Culture to light?

That there are many ways to exist, and especially many different bodies; each worthy of love and respect and each worthy to be seen as normal. It’s particularly important because TPC aims to help its community (a marginalised one at that) celebrate themselves, and to become fierce in knowing that no matter what society says THEY ARE WORTHY, THEY ARE ENOUGH. Most importantly that their body is not wrong.

What do you think when you hear people say, but they are fat?

ALL I hear is a person who us fatphobic, who sees someone’s body first before they SEE them. I hear fat shaming, because it boggles people’s minds that fat people don’t walk around head hanging low, ashamed of themselves and being self-deprecating. I also hear internalised fat shame, learned behaviour from people of ALL sizes who because of societal conditioning believe that being skinny is the only way to exist in a body, so when they see a fat person just living their life unapologetically, it feels wrong to them, people need to unlearn that mentality.

One can be plus sized and Healthy. Yes/No

YES! This is my daily fight. The number one thing that people say to invalidate fat people celebrating themselves or just dismiss them is “but you’re promoting obesity” “its great and all but this is unhealthy”. This is what “concern trolling”,

“A concern troll is a person who participates in a debate posing as an actual or potential ally who simply has some concerns they need answered before they will ally themselves with a cause. In reality they are a critic.”

Frankly stated weight is not an indicator of health and this has been proven over and over again, just because someone is fat does not automatically mean they are unhealthy. There are plenty fat people fitter and healthier than their average sized counterparts and average/skinny people with the same diseases/ill health as fat people. So this has little to do with fatness. We understand though that because of media’s obsession with this western euro-centric beauty standard and the diet industry everything else is deemed unworthy, unhealthy, wrong, and I call bullshit.

The plus Culture and Fashion? How is it finding that perfect fit?

The Fashion industry is known for being an elitist space lacking in diversity and one of the industries that perpetuates the damaging and toxic thinking around weight. So as a lover of fashion I wanted to create the space I never had, to enjoy clothes I was never supposed to enjoy but also to connect with people just like me. In addition to that because fashion is such an immediate, outward expression of self, it’s become a great tool to break down barriers and have these real talks and push self-love and acceptance at any size, forward.

So fashion is a big part of The Plus Culture, we are using fashion as an important tool to have discussion around plus/fatness, and to ensure there is representation. It is critically important people to see themselves represented in modern media with complexity and nuance.

www.theplusculture.com Launched Friday, 10th March 2017

TWINNING | PEYA AND PENA BROCK

2017-03-16T13:55:00.002+02:00

Peya ( left ) and Pena ( right ) Brock

Anyone with two eyes can see that these women are absolutely stunning. Not only that, they are twins. There are so many questions that get thrown at you when you are a twin ( NOT ME ). And it was those questions that sparked my curiosity. What is it like growing up as a twin, in a mixed race family?

Wanted to get deeper than what we see. What are the challenges, perks, advantages and joys?
ALL OF IT.

"Peya and I are the youngest in our family of 6. Growing up mixed race and as twins has truly shaped our identities and our daily lived experiences. We've grown up with two different races and have learnt that the two can live side by side, if not unified and our differences should be celebrated by one another. "

"On a more personal level, one of us came out with more "white" features and the other with more "black" features, most distinguishable by our different hair textures. Universal standards of beauty did impact our childhood in the sense that my straight hair was praised over Peya's curly afro. I remember on some weekends Peya would have to get her hair relaxed or braided and kids would still tell me how great my hair was for a girl of colour.

As a teenager Peya made the decision to take a pair of scissors and cut off her chemically damaged hair and grow out her hair naturally. She has never been more beautiful to me and her acceptance of her beauty has made her and many women of colour unapologetically proud."

"It's interesting that people can tell we must be somehow related but they never suspect that we are twins (although that changed in the last year where we get asked by strangers if we are twins). Thankfully not everyone reacts this way when they find out but at times we have had to sit through a list of comparisons of who gives off what impressions such as who seems more shy and who seems more outgoing, who is thinner and who is thicker, and even at times who is more beautiful.'

"A lifetime of such comparisons can give twins a complex about themselves and one another, and I have seen it take over the relationship of other twins, but our differences make us proud now. We could not picture ourselves any other way. We wanted this photo shoot to capture our love and unison, but at the same to highlight that we are unique individuals in our own rights. Above all we wanted this photo shoot to scream "we are different but equal in our eyes". "

THE LOOK | DELAIRE GRAFF ESTATE

2017-01-27T13:43:00.001+02:00

When in the Western Cape, specifically the Stellenbosch area, what better activity is there to do but go wine tasting. If you love wine this area is just for you. But if you love great wine and the most beautiful wine estate I have ever seen and you will probably ever see then, Delaire Graff wine estate is a must visit!

Beautiful vineyards that go on forever

Scenery matched by no other

A landscape architect's dream

Interior design to die for

Just an all around stunning place and obviously, as one does, I just had to have a photoshoot while I got the chance. Out came the camera and snapped away, in my dungarees and converse... Casual.

FRIENDS THAT SLAY TOGETHER

2017-01-24T15:45:00.000+02:00

Cheers! Cheers to good times. Cheers to good friends and cheers to The Table Bay Hotel / Sun International for hosting as we gear up for the event of the season, The Sun Met .

The setting was immaculate. Apart from the fact that The Table Bay Hotel is dream, we had a beautiful long table decked with the finest cutlery and beautiful champagne flutes. The champagne flutes definitely came in handy as G.H. MUMM SA sponsored us with bubbly for the luncheon. Champagne was on tap!

We had a beautiful three course meal ( the food is an absolute must ) and were treated like Kings and Queens by our waitress, who just happened to know everything about everything, like she was the one that created the menu. I'll give the service all the points. Thank you Table Bay Hotel!

After a beautiful meal we got inspired and took over the entire V&A Waterfront dock. Seeing that everyone looked like they stepped out of a high fashion magazine and queen of everything and host of the luncheon glamorous Melody Molale made sure that there was a photographer around, we decided to do a shoot, as one does. Casual.

These fire images are the result of great friends having even greater fun!

Windhoek Fashion Week 2016

2016-11-16T13:09:00.000+02:00

It came. Left it's mark but it will never leave the hearts and the eyes of those that attended. Windhoek Fashion Week made such a splash. Many thought it would not happen, given the amount of time it was put together in but they did it.

Windhoek had it's first ever fashion week, last week and it was superb. Not only did we have the best and some amazing up and coming Namibian designers showcasing, we had the cream of the crop from South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe grace our runway. Our Namibian designers definitely stood their ground when it came to the quality of their designs. Not only that. They pulled out all the stops with regards to getting their looks together, using a variety of model sizes and putting on a ACTUAL show. Designers you can definitely pat yourselves on the shoulder.

Here a few highlights of we saw on the runway for those of you that missed the shows.

Images by : Elvis Real - UrbaN'dala Digital

EXPRESS YOURSELF | ENES

2016-11-15T16:14:00.000+02:00

Saw the hair. It grabbed me. I found myself not being able to look away because this shoot was just too captivating. Vakwetu had to find out the story behind the images. So, via back and forth mails we got to speak to Enes about life in front of the lens.

As a creative in life and work, and having grown into my "hair skin", I've become more free in expression and experimental with my hair play...

In the beginning it was more of a what new style can I try/do... but as time went on, I consciously trying to create a platform for discussion on what it means to be young, black and a gay male and through my doing allowing inspiration....

There is a fine line though, that is, being overtly flamboyant for queer's sake and knowingly exploring the forgotten art in African male hair, with a contemporary and current aesthetic of coarse.

This current look was something unplanned, I can admit that it was not a look I had planned on doing...

But knowing that I'm allowed in the boundaries of a ( what did i just do) look, I went ahead and undid the braids and went out in public to see how far I could push societies level of "normal", (one has to have balls and no ***** given) attitude cause sometimes the reception isn't as positive.

And I'm pleasantly and taken aback at how positive the reactions have been! From the young to old, male to female, gay to straight... The reception has been absolutely positive.

This has been such a positive affirmation as to where society is and how, more accepting of art (black gay male art in expression).

And as my idol Queen Bey (Beyonce) would say "I slay".... I shall have to say "I didn't come to Slay, I came to SLAUGHTER"!!!!!!!!!

Images by: Ashley Smith

FESTIVAL LIFE | ROCKING THE DAISIES 2016

2016-10-24T13:20:00.000+02:00

ROCKING THE DAISIES

After having had the most amazing experience at the music Festival, Oppi Koppi earlier this year, I decided that festivals are definitely everything and I will try my best not to miss any of them anymore.

Vakwetu was represented by yours truly, Sean Kamati and it would have not been complete without my great friend Jerri Mokgofe from According to Jerri. Some other friends were to join us but as it happens, stories were told and it ended up just being the two of us.

Both Jerri and I had to make our way to Cape Town where our friends from Ford South Africa gave us something really special to take us all the way to Darling where Daisies took place.

Apart from almost getting “lost” only because signage was nowhere to be found and roads were closed, we almost got jumped by a gang of kids “giving directions” but their approach was a bit too crazy and we just stepped on the gas and drove away.

The road leading to Darling, or at least the route we took was so beautiful, filled with stunning scenery that only the Western Cape can give you. Thank goodness we decided to head there on the Thursday before the masses came through but whew, were we lucky because the number of people there already, was crazy 20k large. Lines of cars 5 Kilometres long leading up to the entrance but our Ford Ranger Wildtrak kept us going.

After scamming our way into the artist campsite ( we actually were on the B.C.U.C guest list ) it was time to set up camp. We were never ready for the cold. All we had were fire festival looks and booty shorts. But at least we had some sense to bring jerseys along.

Speaking of festival looks… I would like to thank Ingo Shanyenge , Leah Misika, and Lisco lin for providing inspiration for me to create those fun looks. Fun indeed! It was a festival after all. That’s where “Sean The Scammer” was born. Going around in a flaming blond afro wig and with Jerri by my side we managed to basically just WIN the entire Festival. VAI VAI KWEENS RELOADED.

Some of my highlights:

· The music is really why we went there besides it turning into something else. And the best performances by far were from Hugh Masekela , Nakhane Toure, Moonchild. B.C.U.C among others.
· The two’s up stage was everything! Hip Hop all day everyday and an awesome crowd. Everyone there was lit and was ready to twerk (if they could) the festival away.
· Being with my partner in crime a seasoned festival goer to show me around, even though it was both our first time at DAISIES. We really had the most fun. From scamming drinks at the Black Bottle Whiskey tent to just being absolutely fabulous.
· It was always super easy getting back to our tent, seeing that we did not stay with the masses this time and rather with the artists.
· Beautiful people everywhere. WOW!

· Superbalist at https://superbalist.com/ did an excellent job with the set up.

Some not so good parts:

· THE COLD! It was so cold at night and sexy could not beat the weather but thanks to a few fabulous cocktails from the Black Bottle Whiskey tent, we won.
· Someone tried to and succeeded in grabbing my wig off even though my friend Jerri tried to save me while he was on the shoulders of some drunk girl. Thanks friend.
· Sadly, someone lost their life by drowning in the lake. Prayers go out to the family and loved ones.

Those are just a few of the things I can remember and just a bit of the fun that we had. Thank you “SUPERBALIST ROCKING THE DAISIES 2016”.

Getting ready for the next one already.

Images by ATJ

THE LOOK | DENIM LOVE | MAHLATSE JAMES

2016-09-16T14:02:00.000+02:00

Images: According to Jerri

NAMIBIAN NATURAL HAIR EXPO 10TH SEPTEMBER 2016

2016-09-08T00:32:00.002+02:00

THE SECOND ANNUAL NAMIBIAN NATURAL HAIR EXPO

The second Namibian Natural Hair Expo will take place on the 10th September 2016 at the Eros Park Primary School in Windhoek. Doors open from 10h00 to 17h00.

The aim of the expo will be to:

Showcase the beauty of natural African hair.
Showcase exhibitors with naturally made and local Namibian homegrown products.
Provide holistic health advice for top to toe fitness.
Showcase natural hairstyles and hair demos that will help women take care of their natural hair.
Debate on whether natural hair vs western beauty deserves its place in African society.
Launch the first ever Namibian Natural Hair Guide.

In Africa, western concepts of beauty dominate our screens, our magazines and our billboards. Natural African hair has taken a back seat in the flooding of our media with pictures of straight hair, chemically beautified hair, weaves and other artificial hair that is heralded as beautiful. We also live in a society where beauty products are made from synthesised, chemically laden products, and the organisers would like to showcase a more natural, chemical free, green way of living as well as the beauty and versatility of natural African hair.

The Expo will be a yearly event and this year will host a teaser of the first ever Namibian Natural Hair Guide; authored by local writers. There will be kid’s activities, natural hair discussions, hair management talks, as well as performances and a number of product prize giveaways!

Organisers:

Kumbi Short of Simana Naturals Emporium

Martha Mukungu of Malize Hair Tutorials

Sharon Emvula of Afrorage

Zodidi Gaseb of African Naturals

Patience Mukandi/ Natural Hair Enthusiast

AFRICA FASHION WEEK LONDON 2016

2016-09-06T09:30:00.000+02:00

A few days to go until once again African inspired designs take to the runway at Africa Fashion Week London at the West Hall, Olympia in Kensington, taking place on the 9th and 10th of September 2016.
The two day event features a lineup of established and up and coming African Fashion Designers and labels as well as a exhibitor hall filled with African inspired design products.
Expect exciting designs by designers such as Bestow Elan, Mustafa Hassanali, Nnooll and more. There will be a total of 60 Designers gracing the runway as well as the expo. True to their AFWL style you can again expect some African style entertainment to complete the event and make it truly African inspired experience.
Tickets for the event can be purchased here. Be sure not to miss this edition of AFWL!

2016 MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK | HAUTE BASSO

2016-08-16T13:00:00.000+01:00

Images by : Africa Fashion International

JOBURG SHOPPING FESTIVAL

2016-08-11T13:18:00.002+01:00

Joburg Shopping Festival

Imagine 13 days of shopping galore. All you have to do is get yourself there but at affordable rates from FlySAA. They are here for you.

"Joburg’s most fabulous shopping event, the Joburg Shopping Festival, will be warming up winter from 28 July to 9 August 2016 at four fabulous malls across Gauteng. That’s a whopping 13 days of great deals, special offers and awesome prizes to be won."

Our very own Sean Kamati Twitter:@seanisto and Instagram: @seankmusic was selected as one of the influencers across Africa for this event. He was joined by bloggers and influencers of note from all the corners of the "African Bloggers World"

@K_NAOMI - South Africa

@Lola_OJ - Nigeria

@JustJoyKendi - Kenya

@Ameera_mims - Zimbabwe

@LeopardspottedG - Botswana

Each respected bloggers or influencers in their own right. Follow them on social media with the handles given above.

Our journey in Joburg began with an amazing view at the Four Seasons Hotel, Westcliff, for a meet and greet with the various bloggers/influencers and sponsors.

@vuyomase, @knaomin and @seanisto/seankmusic

@Lola_OJ and @JustJoyKendi

Day1

The bloggers and influencer were taken to Oriental Plaza for their first shopping experience.

"With 360 stores in the Oriental Plaza, you will find a unique shopping experience, which drives on tradition and culture. The Oriental Plaza has been rooted in the very heart of Johannesburg City since the 1970's"

@seanisto/seankmusic

Champagne Chocolate with David Tlale

This experience would not have been complete if we did not get to meet one of South Africa's most renowned designers ( and a multiple feature on Vakwetu ) David Tlale . And how better to have a meet and greet than with some champagne and chocolates.

David Tlale

David Tlale and Bloggers

Day2

Another day filled with shopping and photoshoots. We made our first stop at East Rand Mall.

"East Rand Mall's extensive range of entertainment facilities includes restaurants, coffee shops and a 9- theatre Digital Cinema Centre... oOver 175 stores to chose from with ample parking..."

East Rand Mall and @seanisto/seankmusic

THE SHOOT IN SOWETO ON VILAKAZI STREET

This was the highlight of the whole experience. Bloggers were now to become models. Dressed by some of the best designers in South Africa, namely David Tlale and Craig Port amongst others. In one of the most iconic streets of Soweto, Vilakazi Street. The only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Prize winners. Hair and make-up done and we were set loose on the street, strutting our stuff and showing Vilakazi street and the world what we can do in front of a camera lense.

@Ameera_mims

Day3

On our final day we were taken to Sandton City. The home of luxury shopping and lavish lifestyle, in Johannesburg.

@seanisto/seankmusic,@knaomin,@Ameera_mims,@JustJoyKendi and @Lola_OJ

All in all in was a beautiful experience. Using bloggers/influencers to carry the essence of what the Joburg Shopping Festival is. An opportunity to bring Africa together for the love of retail and culture.

It is a definite must DO.

DANIEL WELLINGTON

2016-07-21T13:00:00.000+01:00

Dapper Durham Rose Gold

As soon as it touched my wrist, I fell in love. It really is a classic timepiece.

It is a definite must have.

From the soft leather of the strap...

To the subtle shine of the Rose Gold...

We give it an A+. You guys can also have your very DW watch by clicking on the link below.

Daniel Wellington

As an added bonus to you, our readers you can use the discount code - vakwetuDW and get 15% your purchase. Offer valid until September 4th

ANNA'S HANDS | MADE TO EMPOWER. MADE WITH LOVE

2016-07-14T13:00:00.000+01:00

We came across this brand, beautiful scarves and we thought we must have them. It is winter after all. Then we sat down with the creators of Anna's Hands and found out that there was much to to these soft, luscious scarves that just the impeccable knitting...

Anna’s Hands is a knitwear company that was created by the children of a hardworking and nurturing Namibian woman, Anna Maria Greyton. Her daughters and granddaughter came together to create handmade knitted garments and accessories in the true spirit of their mother.

These garments are made with her love which means care, thought, warmth and soul went into each one. Each one different, unique in its own way and made to give comfort, reflect the colours the earth but also to make a statement.

What's behind the name?

The name was inspired by Anna Maria Greyton; who was a mother, grandmother, matriarch and a spirit who believed in the power of working hard. She showed her love with her hands and although they were rough, blistered and big, when touched they felt like comfort and protection. Her hands made delicious meals and clothed her family; they could work the roughest farmland or animals to the dirtiest kitchens or sew the softest garment. Her hands were her way of showing her love to her family and making her mark in the world. She lived to be 82 but her memory will live on in the principles she left behind in her family.

What makes this brand unique?

It’s a 100% Namibian brand, spanning 3 generations. It’s handmade knitted with love, care and time. Each piece walks a journey from picking the right wool type, size and colour, to conceptualizing the style and pattern; from figuring out what stitch and pattern goes where, to the final touches. There are only 2 or 3 of the same scarves made making them unique, and even if a colour way is repeated there will always be a difference (either through wool size/pattern/style). Anna’s Hands produces 70% of its scarves in Groot Aub (where some of the Greyton sisters reside) and the rest is made in Windhoek.

The range?

The introductory range of products from Anna’s Hands is a 45-piece collection most of which have sold quite fast. The range was made to explore all the different colours, patterns, styles and shapes that we’re capable of making. It shows styles for both men and women (with children’s scarves currently in production).

So, winter will end, what more can we expect?

Anna’s Hands will expand into a summer range, as well as home ware in the near future and further into the future knitwear. Our next focus whilst growing the brand will be to empower more women within the Groot Aub community (where 70% the scarves are currently made). This will be done through teaching them knitting skills for production, basic sewing skills for finishing off accessories/garments. We hope this will bring some economic development within that community no matter how big or small.

FIND THEM ON:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnasHandsLove/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annashandslove/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/annashandslove

NDAPEWOSHALI SHAPWANALE | THE LOOK

2016-07-08T13:19:00.001+01:00

Name: Ndapewoshali Shapwanale aka. Blommie

City: Windhoek, Namibia

Occupaton: Journalist

Sense of style: Quirky, comforatable, chic

Images by : Jonathan Solomons

LEAH MISIKA | LA MODE | CURRENTS

2016-06-14T13:09:00.000+01:00

Got another chance to sit down one of my favourite fashionistas, Leah Misika.

While sipping on some cool Iced Tea, I got her to "spill the tea" on where she is now in her fashion journey.

"I am in the best fashion space of my life. With My brand finally off the ground, I am happy to say that Leah Misika is well on her way to realising her dreams. I know it is not going to be easy, especially since I chose to start in Namibia, but a woman with a plan is a force to be reckoned with. I don’t really expect people to understand what I am doing nor will I try and explain until it is done. "

"However, Sean ( Vakwetu's Fashion Editor) has a way of getting things out of you. When I quit my job September last year , I knew I wanted to start LMF, but I had no clue how I was going to do it . My pension was literally only going to get me so far , but I didn’t care; If something was going to happen, I needed to act or else I never would have done it. After a crazy end of year, along came 2016 and boy does it feel like the gods where smiling on me. I was doing great! Consulting for My Republik and working on my brand. By January my CNN feature on INSIDE AFRICA aired and that was it, I had to fast track my plans. The window of opportunity only stays open so long then it’s gone. I got myself a mentor and started working towards my brand presence."

"I love every minute of my life right now. There is nothing I feel like I can’t do when it comes to what I love. I have yet to do everything I want to do, but there is no better feeling then waking up knowing you can do what you love and still live the kind of life you want."

"At the moment I am building LMF slowing but surely so for most people that think my brand is established; this is just the beginning. LMF is not doing half of what I dream it will do once I’m done with it. To many it might seem like I’m doing a lot of different things, but everything I do is La Mode , that’s why we call it the La Mode Effect. It is what makes my brand so quintessentially Leah Misika."

"As for what I do now; I still have my weekly Column in the The Namibian “Inside La Mode”, I run La Mode; The Fashion Design and Fashion Marketing, which is our current focus. I also still do retail consulting and imagine consulting. I removed myself from other Projects like Fashion Fiend to grow LMF, but Fashion Fiend is my baby. I will never truly leave it behind. As for the future; I’m looking forward to growing my business and the industry as much as I can."

DESIGNER AND FASHION BRANDS OPEN CALL FOR AFWL2016

2016-05-28T12:10:00.000+01:00

Open call to showcase at Africa Fashion Week London 2016. Calling all designers of African inspired fashion, Africa Fashion week London is back this September. Since it's inception it has gone from strength to strength and after two seasons at London Olympia, Africa Fashion Week London returns to the West Hall from September 8th -10th.

The programme will be packed with exclusive catwalk appearances from up and coming and established designers as well distinctive fashions from exhibitors.

Designers interested in applying should submit their digital lookbook for review here.

DANIEL WELLINGTON | DW | A WATCH FOR EVERY OCCASION

2016-05-27T12:39:00.001+01:00

A watch. A statement. A necessity. An accessory. Not something that just tells time...

At first glance, DW watches all look the same. Same watch different straps. To be honest that is exactly what you see...

You click on another tab, check your Facebook , send a tweet, scroll down your Instagram but then you get back on the DW page and then it hits you. It's not all the same! The classic simplicity jumps right at you from the page. The slim, chic elegant design of this watch makes you think twice. And that Rose-Gold or Silver option grabs you, because those colours give the watch a particular level of class. Although the watches still look very much the same, it goes deeper than that...

It's the strap... It has been the strap the whole time. They just get you. It's like they understand you. To be honest they make the watch. How? There is literally a strap for a day at the beach. A strap for golf day. A strap for a night out on the town with your girls. And if you feel like throwing on a suit or that sexy cocktail dress, there are straps for those too.

Love the brand. Live for this simplicity. Tre chic and a definite must have.

As my wrist waits...

REINHARD MAHALIE | RM | STYLING HIS WAY TO THE TOP

2016-05-19T13:06:00.000+01:00

Reinhard Mahalie- Stylist

The name Reinhard Mahalie is relatively new on the Namibian fashion scene but it has already started making big waves. We had to find out just how he does it and what makes him, make others look fabulous.

Two years ago my friend ask me to go with her to Mr. Price to shop for an event she attended. I put together the most sassy look for her. Then and there I knew my strength is more in styling.

RM-I have always wanted to be a fashion designer, but well, that did not turn out as such. You can put on a really nice dress or power suit, but some people always miss the mark of the little details such as shoes, hair, jewellery, make up, colour combination – whether attire goes with complexion, choice of fabric etc. That’s where I step in to make sure everything co-ordinates to give you that bold rounded look. As long as people feel confident and comfortable while looking good, I am happy styling whoever.

RM -Growing up, I always knew I am going to be part of the Entertainment & Arts industry, until I found my passion for styling & launch the idea on my birthday (27 April 2016) I have always been critical about what people have on, I would always give my true opinion about a look. I’ve been a fashion & style follower since I can remember. I also feel that I am part of the bigger umbrella that will put Namibian fashion on the map. My dreams in the fashion industry is bigger than styling people on a weekly or monthly basis.

RM - I do plan on going beyond boarders,. There is a voice in the back of my mind that is telling me, “Go to South Africa, Bonang is waiting for you” . If it’s meant to be, its meant to be. I for sure want to spread my wings, I’m not in a rush, although I am positive it will happen.

RM - The photoshoot and look was inspired by red carpet, woman that can have the same opportunities as men, to be fierce and powerful in her own skin & I just wanted clean classy, chic 7 dapper looks.

Clothes: Urban Glam Designs
Photography: AM Photography

AFRIQ | LATIFAH OGONE MALETZKY

2016-04-21T12:57:00.000+01:00

It's much more that just a patch of Africa on your shirt.. Created by Latifah Maletsky, this brand has been popping up here and there and sparked our interest. We just had to ask her...

So, what exactly is AFRIQ?

"Afriq is a local brand, entirely African based."

"The name and concept came about when a friend told me I do things from a Majestic magnitude, which was the initial name of the brand. As with probably everything I do, I try to incorporate my true being in it, and thats what Im known for. Because I believe as a person, the way you carry yourself and how people see you, is everything. So from the way I dress to the music I listen to, to the people I choose to associate myself with, you can always tell that I it's more on the African side of life."

"Then again lets not make it all about me."

"I wanted my brand to be something people will always want, regardless of what product it is. Be it shoes, bags, a shirt, a dress, etc, there's always a touch of African in it. Mainly because as a young woman myself, and in a time where youngsters are always following international trends and straying away from their roots. I don't consider myself a fashion guru or all these names they refer to them these days, but if I can send my message across through something people rave about, then why not use the platform. The African print died out quite fast after it was a big thing and it is evident because all over social media every fashionista wants to follow the latest trends and dress the exact way their Style Icons do. Its quite rare to find people my age consider the likes of Lira or even Thandiswa Mswai as style icons because of how they dress. Now I can type a hundred pages here.

Africanism - the concept of the brand"