ID: Zwandyy
by Mzwandile Mathonsi
ZWANDYY has become one of Durban’s exciting rising fashion brands, driven by the creativity and determination of designer Mzwandile Mathonsi. Hailing from KwaMashu, his passion for fashion began at an early age while watching his grandmother sew on her old machine.
He spent his childhood sketching outfit ideas and dreaming of one day building his own label.
Although he briefly studied business management after school, Mzwandile soon realised his true calling lay in fashion. He later received hands-on mentorship from renowned designer Buhle Bethu, who helped sharpen his skills and industry knowledge.
In 2014 he joined one of the first mentorship programmes of the Durban Fashion Fair, before being selected for an international fashion experience in Italy a year later. Today, the award-winning designer is the reigning Durban Designer of the Year and has showcased collections at both Namibia Fashion Week and London Fashion Week.
My Inspiration ...
“As per this year’s theme, I was inspired by my icon Dolly Parton, a musician I grew up listening to and love. Her dress style is country with a modern twist. I also incorporated the view of county landscapes with the greens and the browns of mountains and horses.”
