For those who are paying attention, the evolution of Bulawayo fashion has been interesting to watch.
Unlike in the capital where cheap imitations of foreign brands reign supreme (no pun intended), Bulawayo street style is slowly coming closer to home. Gone are the days of the Ama Kip Kip tees, more and more fashionistas are choosing homegrown brands.
While there are some who have already cemented themselves as the pioneers, a new crop of Gen Z’ers inspired by American streetwear culture are mushrooming to meet the demand.
One such brand that deserves special mention is STOLEN PIECES, founded in 2022 by Rodney Mandebvu.
At just 20 years old, Mandebvu has single-handedly built STOLEN PIECES into a mentionable brand on the Bulawayo fashion scene. While some brands choose sporadic releases, Mandebvu has chosen a quick-fire release strategy that ensures that there’s always something to look forward to.
We sat down with the young designer for a peek into his mind — how he came up with the brand name, his creative process, what he’s managed to achieve so far, and what the future holds. Enjoy!
Hie Rodney, thank you for sitting down with us for this long-overdue interview. Tell us, how did you end up venturing into fashion?
I just loved fashion since back then especially thrifting; and that led me to start my own brand.
I taught myself how to sew pieces together by watching tutorials and deconstructing old clothes to create new pieces. Over time, I started creating my own patterns and got better at the sewing process.
STOLEN PIECES. Such a creative name. How did you come up with it?
When I started out, I would take ideas from international designers and brands then add my own touch to make the piece unique, affordable and easy to access for my community. So that’s how the name came about.
At first, I wanted the name to be PIECES, I didn’t want to incorporate the word STOLEN because of how it sounded together.
I wasn’t sure how people would receive and react to the name itself but now I’m confident with it. The people really like it.
How many pieces have you released so far?
I have released so so many pieces, I can’t recall all of them (laughs).
But the ones I do remember are:
- Four-panel caps
- Short sleeve and full sleeve zip-up jacket
- Puff vests in four variations
- KoiiN bags
- DoLLA bags
- Puffer tote bags
- STOLEN tees
- Contrast-stitch carpenter shorts
- Denim two-pieces
- The UMQALANJA wide-leg pants
- Puffer bucket hats
Does this mean STOLEN PIECES is more about single pieces than collections?
I do make collections, then I focus on what people want from that particular collection. If people like a particular piece, I keep elevating the designs and changing colour ways.
Have you showcased your work at any event so far?
I showcased a collection at the Bulawayo Sneaker Expo in last year October. The most recent showcase was at SKAP. I showed three looks. In future, I’m hoping I get more invitations to fashion shows.
What’s your take on the Bulawayo fashion scene?
I think the Bulawayo fashion scene iyakhuphuka, I like what people are doing with clothes — people are supporting local brands, creating their own clothes (upcycling), and thrifting more.
We are seeing more creativity in the Bulawayo fashion scene lately and it’s satisfying I won’t lie.
In Bulawayo, do you have any particular brands you admire?
I admire every brand obviously but the ones that stick out for me are Juluka Sneaker Co and Richard Jeans.
And in Harare?
I’ve been paying attention to Rozebowl Collection, their work is amazing!
Have you taken STOLEN PIECES beyond Bulawayo?
Yes I occasionally get customers from outside the city. So far, I have delivered some pieces to Harare, Victoria Falls, Gweru, and a few to South Africa.
What can we expect from STOLEN PIECES for the remainder of the year?
As for these few months left, I have the NEHANDA collection dropping soon, which will consist of 3 to 5 looks. I’m planning to drop in October or November.
Obviously I’ll still be dropping single pieces. If anything comes in mind I will drop, but just look out for the NEHANDA collection. I’m also planning on making accessories for the brand so be ready.
I’m also planning on doing a STOLEN FASHION SHOW the beginning of next year.
So many designers have come and gone in Zimbabwean fashion. Do you think you’ll still be doing this in a decade’s time?
I will do this till I’m no more. This is just the beginning, a lot is yet to come.
End of except
If a 20 year old with over 20 pieces in his catalogue considers this the beginning, then Bulawayo and Zimbabwean fashion has a bright future.
We’ll be keeping a close eye on Rodney Mandebvu and STOLEN PIECES as the story unfolds.
You can follow STOLEN PIECES on Instagram.
These pieces are just 🎯🎯💯💯