LINDA MAZIBUKO

LABEL: FREE SLAVE

Motivated by the fact that he couldn’t find the right style of clothing in stores and fashion boutiques, Linda began making his own clothes around 2006. “I soon realized that people were interested in my style of dress and were always commenting about my stylish clothes. When quite a sizeable number kept asking me to design for them, I took that as a good sign and decided to start my business – NK Collection.”

Today, Linda is counted among Durban’s finest young entrepreneurs in charge of a growing, fresh fashion line that is doing serious rounds in KwaZulu-Natal. Designing under the most-recognizable Free Slave label, Linda’s range is best described as casual and comfortable, with a touch of fun sophistication. Making clothes for both sexes, Linda also doesn’t shy away from making plus-size clothes. “Free Slave is for everyone and caters for all tastes, styles and body sizes and shapes. Sometimes people assume that because I use thin models at fashion shows, I only make clothes for such people, but that is not so. I enjoy making everyone beautiful, whether big- or small-framed!”

For Linda, fashion is a passion, a calling. “The business of fashion is like a growing flower that you must nurture and grow till it blooms. It takes time, dedication and sacrifice to grow this business. But the reward is priceless! When I see someone I have made an outfit for, looking great, walking tall and feeling confident, I feel immensely proud of myself and the hard work I put in.” While his is a success story, Linda has some serious wise words for aspiring fashion designers. “Fashion is a very social- and network-intensive industry. You must interact with people and be aware of what is going on around you. Think service and quality first – the money comes much later!”

LINDA’S FASHION TIPS:
[ 1 ] Summer is here! So invest in bold, bright colours. Don’t wear the same style that was worn last summer.
[ 2 ] Men’s must-have items: Cardigans, T-shirt, Cargo pants.
[ 3 ] Women’s must-have item: Vests, Vest dresses, Hot pants.

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