Sindiso Khumalo, a designer based in Cape Town, draws inspiration from the stories and narratives of the African diaspora in her womenswear designs. Her brand, launched in 2015, has been influenced by Zulu wedding rituals and the life of American slave abolitionist Harriet Tubman, both of which are elements of her Zulu and Ndebele heritage.
Khumalo’s collaboration with & Other Stories, which includes 17 pieces, was inspired by tokens of good fortune such as marigold garlands and cowrie shells used as talismans in West African and Afro-Caribbean culture. The collection, set to launch on April 13th, blends cultural symbols to bring good luck into garments.
The collection is designed for ease, featuring detachable collars, dress silhouettes, puff shoulders, peplums, and ruffled hems. There are also playsuits, loose skirts, shorts, and relaxed jackets, detailed with smocking, floral embroidery, and crochet patches. Additionally, the collection features shoulder bags and jewellery embellished with cowrie shells. Khumalo wanted to create clothing that women can easily care for, even on holiday.
The collaboration allowed Khumalo to expand into swimwear, incorporating an abstract pen and ink print in a swimsuit and matching sarong. Khumalo is known for promoting sustainable and ethical design, working with NGOs that support and protect women in South Africa. The collection is made with organic cotton, recycled cotton, linen, and recycled brass.
For the campaign images, Khumalo wanted to capture a vision of sisterhood in areas of Cape Town with authentic roots to the city. The models were shot in Fish Hoek, a fishing village outside the port city, and Bo-Kaap, a residential area lined with colorful houses close to Khumalo’s studio.
Khumalo’s goal is to create pieces with intention that are special enough for women to keep in their lives, something magical. The collection is set to inspire feelings of good fortune and is a testament to Khumalo’s commitment to sustainable and ethical fashion.
