MATTE NOLIM
The South-African brand established in 2014 by Siyethemba Duma explores minimalism in African aesthetics by creating heritage-fueled womenswear.
Born in the land of Shaka Zulu, Siyethemba Duma launched his brand after moving to Johannesburg and graduating from university. His critically acclaimed debut collection was showcased at the 2015 Autumn/Winter SA Fashion Week and led him to present his 2017 Spring/Summer collection at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week.
Matte Nolim’s primary inspiration is South Africa’s rich heritage. The brand takes elements which are often looked down upon and associated with negative stereotypes and reinserts them in luxury contexts to create a sense of pride. Their Spring/Summer 2021 collection features tie-skirts that are inspired by the ‘u’kbhinca‘ (girdle) concept which is present in several African tribes.
Matte Nolim embraces modern minimalism and expands it by using tribal elements and putting South African culture at the center of every collection. While the brand’s identity is in contradiction to what is expected from “African Designers”, it reflects how young Africans are redefining themselves.
Image credits
Image 1: Model Anyon Asola, Photographed by Katinka Bester, Direction & Styling by Kelly Fung
Image 2: Photography by Stefan Milos, Model Nsovo Chabangu, Creative Direction & Styling by Matte Nolim
Image 3: Photography by Stefan Milos, Model Nsovo Chabangu, Creative Direction & Styling by Matte Nolim
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