Namibian designer Rauna Ndeilenga, the founder and creative director of NMARTIN, has launched NMARTIN Curates, a jewellery and accessories extension of her clothing brand.
She considers this new direction a manifestation of her love of detail and of her belief that accessories are deeply personal expressions, not just decorations.
“[This line] is where I explore that softer, more intimate side of style. Each piece is handpicked with a meaning and story, often reflecting strength and emotion in subtle ways,” she explains.
The jewellery pieces in the collection are unique, water-resistant and tarnish-free, featuring 18k gold plating on stainless steel. They also all have a story behind them, she says. Some of the latest, like the Ogone earrings, reflect calm strength and elegance and are named after a friend who grounds her. The Inga bangle, named after her mother, symbolises resilience, warmth and quiet strength.
This new line is perfect for women who value elegance in simplicity and who appreciate jewellery that’s meaningful, timeless and versatile, according to the designer. She tells us that her overall design philosophy focuses on balance: it is timeless yet modern, elegant yet wearable. In short, she designs for the woman who wants to feel grounded, confident and present.
Whether you’re drawn to a bold statement necklace, a pair of subtle, elegant earrings, chunky bangles, rings, eyewear or handbags, this diverse brand is there for you. The prices are quite reasonable too and range between N$120 for the Solstice ring and N$1 400 for the Butter Yellow bag.
Ndeilenga has also done something pretty innovative, and that’s to create a ‘versatile’ earring collection. They are designed in such a way that they can be adjusted, layered or worn as standalone statements, meaning each pair can easily be styled multiple ways and can adapt to different looks and moods.
The items are all quite unique and beautiful. Each is like a piece of art, with their abstract shapes and strong golden shimmer. And the timing for this could not have been better. As we head into the warmer seasons, the fashion connoisseur says this summer is all about effortlessness.
“Think lightweight gold/acrylic jewellery, versatile hoops like our Tanaka’s, crisp shirts, relaxed linen trousers and statement handbags, the kind that can move with you from brunch to evening. For me, it’s less about trends and more about pieces that last and make you feel like yourself,” she explains.
Since relocating to Cape Town this year to further her education and grow her brand, she explains she’s been inspired by the city’s creative energy and its sense of community. Being surrounded by other artists has taught her patience, purpose and the power of showing up for others.
“Your presence matters. There’s something powerful about witnessing your friends and people around you doing what they love. Seeing them win, create and grow reminds me that we’re all building something in our own way,” she explains.
The move has impacted her career as a designer as well, leading her to put clothes temporarily on hold, while she focuses on her metamorphosis.
All this is nothing new for the designer, whose looks have graced many runways, including the famed Windhoek Fashion Week. She has also worked closely with big brands and remains one of the country’s most talented seamstresses.
Building this brand has been a process of patience, reflection and realignment, according to Ndeilenga.
Looking ahead, she plans to continue building a strong community around NMARTIN Curates before reintroducing clothing that embodies the same spirit of meaning and simplicity. She’s focusing on markets and pop-up events to help people connect with her brand in person.
To secure your own proudly Namibian piece, head to nmartin.co.za or follow her online @nmartin_curates.
– Anne Hambuda is a writer, social commentator and poet. Follow her online or email her at annehambuda@gmail.com for more.
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.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
