Gone are the days when people were happy to buy mass-merchandised items.
Over the years more and more Namibians have grown passionate about making a fashion statement instead of blending into the background.
This eagerness to stand out has seen an increased demand for locally designed garments, and this is where the vibrant and creative Miles Meroro comes in.
The designer has been making all the right moves in the local fashion industry, with his name on almost every fashion lover’s lips.
Mostly known for his contemporary African designs, with a playful twist, Meroro’s clients are those with a penchant for the extravagant like Lioness, Nangula Nanyemba, Yessonia, DJ Castro, Sean K and Luis Munana.
Born and raised in Windhoek, Meroro says fashion has been a part of his life since he was a little boy who always found a way to make his outfit look different.
“My main aim has always been to stand out. Growing up I enjoyed to DIY my clothing. Patching them with extra fabric so they looked different from everyone else’s,” he says.
The 22-year-old enjoys working in the fashion industry because he has the freedom to bring to life whatever tickles his imagination.
“I have a creative mind and fashion is mostly what I think about. This is a new era in fashion. There are no rules. Fashion allows me to think out of the box.”
He points out that working in the industry is not as easy as it looks, and he cautions those considering a career in fashion to hone their individual sense of style first.
“As a designer you have to first find your own style. This is important because it will allow you to cater for your target market. It is also key to be different from what is already out there. You want to make sure you provide individuals with what they need, but don’t know it yet,” he says.
Fashion is a challenging industry, he says, as every designer is out to release the ‘next big thing’.
“As a designer always be true to yourself. Network. Go out there and learn more. When there are no clients try to work on a few ready-to-wear pieces.”
However, he also says a designer must be open to their client’s briefs.
“Being presented with a challenging design motivates me and allows me to deliver the best end product.”
He is inspired by fashion blogs, docu-series and fashion talk shows and was particularly taken by South African fashion designer David Tlale after he saw his show at the Windhoek Fashion Week.
Meroro is also pursuing a degree in logistics and supply chain management at the Namibia University of Science and Technology.
He has been nominated for the 2020 Simply You Magazine Lifestyle and Fashion Awards in the favourite stylist of the year category, where he will compete against the likes of Yverischka, Aubrey and Talah Hashipala.
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