Fashion Obsession launches first winter collection

AFTER MORE than two years in the fashion industry, Fashion Obsession is catering for winter for the first time with the introduction of the brand’s first winter collection.

The Namibian recently spoke to Mwaalwa Nambondi, the founder of the shop who gave more insight about the collection and a few winter tips.

Fashion Obsession is targeting young and middle-aged women. The pieces they sell are affordable, unique, good quality and are also limited edition as they don’t receive more than four items per set.

Nambondi started her fashion shop in September 2019, after returning home from the United States of America. She established the company after struggling to get a job.

The collection consists of various winter pieces such as coats, blazers, turtlenecks, cardigans, jerseys, jackets, vests, tracksuits and pants.

“We finally have winter clothes and it is quite exciting. I normally don’t do well in winter, but this year I decided to take pride and go miles showing the comfortability one will have in our first winter collection. I don’t like winter, but I get through it by always making sure I walk out of my home warm, comfortable and beautiful.

“The excitement the season brings is to always dress up fashionably. Winter clothes always have various benefits such as the warmth and the cosy feel of the material,” she said.

For this season, Nambondi advises on bright colours saying they energise and are a great mood booster. “The colours I always go for are grey, purple, maroon, peach, yellow, brown, soft blue, milky pink and black. Black is always boss,” she said.

Nambondi said many people find dressing up during winter challenging. She said the worst mistakes people often make are pairing pieces and the combination of colours.

“One should choose colours that blend to make an outfit stand out. I am against dressing up in a hurry, because it leads to mistakes. One thing that has helped me improve my style is picking out my outfits the evening before work or meetings,” the 28-year-old said.

Nambondi said although it is always great to go for something fashionable during winter, she advises that comfort and warmth are always key. Looking fashionable can, however, boost confidence in an individual, she said.

She is against wearing trends in winter and advises something that complements your body shape. “Clothes are cut differently – this is why there are different categories of body types. I think one should always stick to their body type and I am sure they will look good at all times,” she said.

Nambondi advised women to always shop smart and be on the lookout for items on specials. “A lot of shops often have end of season sales, and I think that is a great time to purchase new items. If you buy a piece of clothing, always make sure you like it and know that you would wear it. I always advise people to never walk out of a shop with clothes they have not tried on, so try it on before you buy it. The result of buying clothing under assumptions is the reason people buy clothes and keep them in their closet unworn,” she said.

She said during winter it is also important to choose the right shoes to keep you warm, your feet safe and to beautifully complement your outfit.

“Fashion is an art and if everything is put together in the right manner, then it looks fantastic. The only advice I give is never go too far without having comfortable shoes. Some shoes are made out of hard materials and those with long heels can cause tremendous pain,” said Nambondi who hails from Ontanda village at Uukwaluudhi where she grew up.

“Growing up I was obsessed with clothes. I loved dressing up and looking good. I started from humble beginnings where I did not have all the clothes that I wanted as a little girl. I started thinking of ways to earn money. My selling journey has been a long one. I first started from a suitcase, walking up to people I know. I later sold from the boot of my car,” she said.

Nambondi said the name of her fashion brand (Fashion Obsession) comes from her obsession with fashion. Besides marketing her new winter collection, Nambondi is also looking into collaborating with other Namibians and branching out into different regions and online stores.

“My dream is to grow my business to be a recognised brand both nationally and internationally. I am aspiring to create job opportunities for Namibians and thus reducing unemployment in the country. I draw my inspiration from all kinds of hardworking women in business,” Nambondi said.

In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.