A vibrant fusion of art, identity, and storytelling unfolded at the Zimbabwe Fashion and Heritage Showcase, where designers drew inspiration from the nation’s diverse traditions to create fashion that speaks beyond fabric and form.
Held under the theme “Through Fashion,” the event celebrated cultural heritage as a living, evolving art form, one that bridges the past and present through design, texture, and narrative. It brought together emerging and established designers, historians, and cultural advocates who are using fashion as a platform for storytelling and social connection.
Among the notable participants was Caryn Mangena, a designer who collaborated closely with the Kalanga tribe to ensure her collection authentically represented their identity and customs. Her work featured earthy tones, geometric patterns, and traditional beadwork inspired by Kalanga aesthetics and spirituality.
“I had to interview many Kalanga people, learning about their traditions, norms, religions, and way of life,” Mangena said. “That interaction was the cornerstone of how I showcased their culture.”
Mangena’s commitment to research-based design underscored the growing movement of fashion as cultural preservation, transforming garments into visual archives that document and honour indigenous heritage.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Lloyd Anderson, British Council Country Director for Zimbabwe, praised the designers for their creative innovation and cultural sensitivity.
“Zimbabwe’s cultural diversity provides a rich tapestry of colour and inspiration for designers to produce creative work,” Dr. Anderson said. “The British Council will continue to provide platforms for creatives to showcase their talent and elevate Zimbabwean fashion to a new level.”
In a moving tribute, the event also honoured the late Pathisa Nyathi, a celebrated historian, writer, and cultural custodian whose work has been instrumental in preserving Zimbabwe’s oral traditions. A pavilion dedicated to his memory was unveiled, featuring a curated showroom and pop-up space for designers inspired by his legacy. The installation includes a permanent display celebrating Nyathi’s lifelong contributions to Zimbabwean culture and heritage.
More than a fashion event, the showcase highlighted the transformative power of cultural storytelling. Through colour, fabric, and form, designers are redefining what it means to be Zimbabwean in a modern, globalised world—proving that fashion can be both beautiful and deeply meaningful.