Bonny M | August 1, 2024
Sizarcred is a luxurious ready to wear clothing brand, founded by fashion designer Fikile Mlambo from Amersfoort in Mpumalanga. Raised by my grandmother who loved hand sewing and later taught me art of sewing, I vividly reminisce of how she would hand sew an entire dress which would lead me to sewing skirts and making clothes for my dolls growing up. I then started sketching and even then I had no idea I would pursue a career in fashion.
I then went to Johannesburg with the aim of pursuing a career in civil engineering. Went for registrations and unfortunately it was full and I was told to register for the next semester and listen when I tell you I wasn’t willing to wait a whole year to study.
At that time fashion wasn’t even a plan B, I wasn’t thinking about it as a fall back plan. So I went back into the registration office and asked if they had fashion or sewing since civil engineering had not worked out due to space. I then enrolled for fashion which at the time I had no knowledge off and the rest was history.
My inspiration comes from a lot of things, sun glasses, earrings, shoes, could be a tree, a mountain, even going to fashion shows it all depends on what I would be going through in that moment which inspires me. I would be working on a design while planning my next also my mother has been my biggest inspiration, she has been there for me since day one.
The biggest joy from the work I do comes from witnessing myself transform fabrics into works of art, from the sketching to pattern cutting, sitting on the machine and creating these masterpieces from nothing and seeing the smiles on clients faces when they come for fittings, just gives me so much joy to know that we have created a piece for them that can’t be found anywhere else.
In as much as I love what I do, there have been challenges as well which include discovering my creative niche and unique style which will best communicate my brand identity, because I have dipped my foot in all design styles which has made it challenging to give SizarCred an identity that provides audience with clear understanding on what we specialize in.
I believe a huge part to the struggle was me not understanding why I got into fashion. However I am quite happy that I finally understand where my creative niche is which is ready to wear fashion.
What advice would you give to anyone who wants to pursue a career in the fashion?
Fashion is very broad there is bridal, ready to wear and couture hence it is important that one understands where their creative flair is. Also the fashion industry is a challenging one! With competition from big brands it’s important to focus on your vision patiently. Secondly, forget about the money it will come eventually, develop your skills, never give up, follow your passion and sense of style, be consistent and always be willing to learn.