Fashion vs Nature

Day 1

On my way to Ondangwa for shoot number one.

Had a great experience culture-wise and Namibian tradition is quite evident in the North.

The fabric used for the dress made in Ondangwa is called, Odelela. It's original colour is red and creme, dyed a lot of different colours.

The fabric was used many years ago in tradition, used by Oshiwambo's, used for weddings, all traditional occasions (being made head of a village or made a king), when a baby is born & when the baby also leaves the house for the first time and Oshiwambo's value tradition as this was dated back a few years ago.

When it's Independence Day, Oshiwambo ladies love to wear this fabric too.

When a girl becomes a woman, this fabric was also worn, so this fabric must be owned by an Oshiwambo lady.

All accessories worn are sponsored by NamCrafts

Quick tip:

 Empire waist dresses are flattering for apple & pear shaped ladies, the stomach and hip areas are fully disguised.

The dress has a fitted bodice ending just below the bust, giving a high-waisted appearance. The shape of the dress also helps to lengthen the body.

My experience:

The North, a mixture of traditional culture and modern civilization is a fast growing economic zone creating vast opportunities for entrepreneurs in all spheres of life. As a fashion designer, the cultural diversity embodied in the people, the way of life, traditions, language, colours and the environment, my horizons broadened and will impact the way I look at designs for this area. 

Culturally, the North is where Namibian tradition is still very active and people are proud of their cultural heritage.

Day 2 coming soon:)