Zambia’s fashion industry is animated and alive with possibilities. Artistic and innovative individuals are at the helm of several brands that showcase Zambia’s talent. From bold, eye-catching prints to immaculately tailored everyday pieces, these fashion brands have something for everyone.
Beyond beautiful gowns and well-tailored suits, fashion is an important industry. It can contribute to the growth of an economy, be an avenue to convey socio-political issues and function as a cultural archive. The Zambian fashion industry is all these things and so much more. Though small, the industry is showing signs of tremendous growth. Here is our list of 5 Zambian fashion brands to keep your eye on.
Mangishi Doll
In a 2012 interview, Mangishi Doll founder Kapasa Musonda said she wanted her brand to be established both locally and internationally. Kapasa’s brand has reached magnificent heights, and all we can do is watch in awe. Over a decade since its inception, Mangishi Doll has dressed the likes of Angela Basset, Susan Kelechi Watson and Vonneta Stewart. Kapasa’s foray into fashion was prompted after she received a scholarship to study fashion design at FIDM in Los Angeles, California, at just 17 years old! Mangishi Doll is known for its beautifully tailored clothes, quality fabrics and bold patterns. The brand is also meticulous with its visual language, despite the vibrance and variation of patterns on its products. All of the brands' models are posed in front of a red, rustic backdrop - demonstrating the intentionality behind the images being projected. Mangishi Doll’s clothing is a sight for sore eyes, a delight for keen buyers, and essential for lovers of Zambian fashion.
Lace by Mwenge
Lace by Mwengz is characterised by playful designs, feminine flare and bold patterns. Founded by Mwenge Kapumpa after a 2015 Zambia Fashion Week debut, Lace by Mwenge specialises in womenswear and provides ready-to-wear clothing and bespoke tailoring services. Their signature product is the ‘Lace Mini’, a mini-skirt made out of chitenge fabric that varies in design and character. Some skirts are plain, and others have an edgy mini-slit or are finished with a trim of either tassels or lace. Mwenge cites Zambian brands such as Kamanga Wear and Ensoko and international designers such as David Tlale, Diane von Furstenburg and Elie Saab as her inspiration. With Lace by Mwenge, Mwenge aims to make women feel confident and beautiful. Her designs place a strong emphasis on femininity and the feminine form. Add Lace by Mwenge to your list of fabulous and feminine fashion brands.
Ensoko by Chiza
Chiza Ngulube established Ensoko by Chiza in 2004, and over two decades later, the brand is a household name. Clothing by the brand can be seen on the likes of individuals like Komba Malukutila and Lunia Hara. Ensoko’s signature is the use of chitenge in the creation of their unique and well-crafted garments. The brand specialises in bespoke men’s tailoring but has also expanded its offering to include womenswear. Chiza has a knack for innovation, releasing pieces that reference traditional elements of Zambian fashion with a twist. An example of this inventiveness is his take on the Siziba, attire traditionally worn by Lozi men. The brand also offers accessories, with them releasing socks that featured Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe on the 100th anniversary of his birthday. Ensoko by Chiza is a powerhouse fashion brand signified by creativity and excellent tailoring.
Ulo Designs
Ulo Designs was founded in 2015 by Cecilia Lizzy Njobvu, while she was still a student at the University of Zambia. The brand has distinguished itself as the one to turn to if you are looking for expertly crafted bridalwear or just a beautiful outfit for a special occasion. In 2016, the year following the creation of the brand, Cecilia received the Best Upcoming Designer Award at Zambia Fashion Week. However, she dreams of making it to the international stage and hopes to show her collections at Paris Fashion Week. Ulo Designs presented a collection of children’s clothes at the 2019 Zambia Fashion Week, demonstrating the brand’s versatility. Whether you’re looking for an expertly crafted pantsuit or an outfit for a special day, Ulo Designs is sure to cater to your various needs.
Debbie Chu
The most experimental brand on this list, Debbie Chu offers a refreshing take on Zambian fashion. The brand was created by Deborah Chuma, a fashion designer and visual artist. Her career in fashion began after she took a tailoring class in 2009. Her artistic background is reflected in her collections, which are inventive and subversive. In 2018, Debbie Chu released a well-received collection titled Oracle of the Honey Bee. The collections’ colour palette was dark, and the models appeared with black tape pasted on their foreheads and roses in their mouths. Debbie Chu also offers bespoke bridal tailoring. What began as a favour for a regular client turned into a well-established bridal offering. Debbie Chu offers a fresh and welcome take on Zambian fashion.
