Laina Ndahambelela Mbandi, a 31-year-old legal practitioner turned fashion designer, is making waves in the fashion industry with her brand Shiveli, which empowers Namibian women.
Laina Ndahambelela Mbandi, a 31-year-old legal practitioner turned fashion designer, is making strides in the fashion industry with her brand, Shiveli. Originating from Oranjemund and raised in Windhoek, Mbandi is not only focused on creating clothing but also on empowering and representing Namibian women through fashion. Speaking in an interview, Mbandi stated, “With Namibian women as the focal point of my designs, I’ve always strived to offer fashion that resonates with their lifestyle, identity and sense of pride.”
Mbandi’s journey into fashion began in her early twenties when she felt a profound sense of unfulfillment. “During my early twenties, I found myself waking up each day feeling a sense of not being fulfilled, as though something was missing,” she explained, describing how this prompted her to study fashion design and buying principles at the Cape Town College of Fashion Design. This pivotal decision helped her tap into her passion for fashion, illuminating a “hidden part” of herself.
After completing her studies, Mbandi started her initial ventures, including the fashion brands Lulama & Lupita, before launching Shiveli. The brand is characterized by its elaborate silhouettes and refined, feminine cuts, and it aims to cater to women who are bold and unapologetic. “We offer a range of fashion-forward items that exude sophistication, elegance and boldness – without the hefty price tag typically associated with luxury,” she stated, emphasizing her goal of making stylish, high-quality clothing accessible to a broad audience.
Shiveli’s designs are made to encourage women to embrace their distinctive styles and stand out with confidence. Mbandi aims to capture the essence of modern femininity, noting, “When you wear Shiveli, you’re not just dressing up – you’re embracing the fierce, amazing woman you are.”
Despite her ambitious vision, Mbandi faces challenges in the fashion industry. She highlighted the common misconception that equates her work solely to that of a seamstress. “While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with being a seamstress, my business model goes beyond that. I view what I do as creating art – fashion pieces that are made with intention and are products in themselves,” she shared. Additionally, she noted the challenge of market accessibility, emphasizing that even though online shopping has flourished, many Namibians still prefer traditional retail environments.
Looking to the future, Mbandi has grand plans for Shiveli, envisioning it as a globally competitive brand alongside international retailers like Zara and Topshop. Her aspirations include expanding the brand to a point where it can provide opportunities for other Namibians, as well as collaborating on unique projects with fellow creatives. She is also planning a T-shirt series with proceeds earmarked for charitable causes.
Mbandi recognizes the potential of Namibia’s growing apparel market and is positioning Shiveli to be a significant player in the industry. She asserts, “If local brands can capture just 10% of this expanding market, it would not only contribute to the country’s economic growth but also fuel a movement where Namibian clothing is proudly worn by Namibians themselves.” This ambition extends beyond mere commercial success; Mbandi seeks to foster national pride and promote homegrown talent through her work in fashion.
Source: Noah Wire Services
