NATHANIEL GONDO
As the Spring/Summer ’23 season unfurls, Zimbabwean fashion brands are painting runways with a vibrant palette, and leading the charge is couture brand, The Fit by Lady Nga. Their latest offering, The Fleur Collection, is a vivid tapestry of ladieswear that mirrors the efflorescence of the Zimbabwean flowering season.
This marks the brand’s third collection and second Spring/Summer line, following the success of last year’s Radiant Collection. The Fleur Collection, with ‘Fleur’ translating to ‘flower’ in French, is an homage to the resilience of flowers that bloom amidst the scorching Zimbabwean summer. As Lady Nga, the founder and lead designer, puts it, “It’s all about standing out just as flowers would in the otherwise dry Zimbabwean summer terrain.”
The collection comprises eight exquisite pieces: the Cana Linen jumpsuit, Iris Mini Fleur dress, Marigold Mini Fleur dress, Viola Bronze Fleur dress, Amaryllis Peach Fleur dress, Lilium Fleur gown, Pansy Fleur set, and Tulip set. Each piece is a testament to a different ‘fleur’, as their unique names suggest.
The Fleur Collection is a harmonious blend of sophistication and whimsy. It showcases a variety of textures, frills, pleats and gathers that playfully dance on clean silhouettes. The result is a potent mix of vigour and elegance with a touch of audacity. Striking a unique balance between youthful exuberance and mature grace, this collection is a testament to Lady Nga’s creative prowess.
Lady Nga’s creative process begins with understanding the season and what people are looking for. “Two things come to mind: breathable clothes and bright colours (given that it’s summer). We chose colour as our main focus. Yellow and purple. Both very bold, and when placed together, signifying royalty/luxury,” she explains.
The next step involves translating ideas into sketches. For The Fleur Collection, flowers served as the muse influencing texture, colour, and patterns. “Flowers provide great inspiration for textures to explore. You look at the Marigold dress, whose frills are a replica of marigold flowers,” she adds further.
This collection is an extension of The Fit brand’s ethos, mostly known for making bespoke pieces tailored to each client’s comfort and style. Lady Nga continues to deliver quality and uniqueness in her designs. And in an exciting revelation for fashion enthusiasts, she hinted at venturing into menswear in the near future.
If you’re seeking a proper bespoke experience, you can get in touch with The Fit by Lady Nga on their Instagram page, as well as contacting Lady Nga directly on +263718111054.
