Reinhard Mahalie is one of the most awarded and nominated fashion stylists in the country.
The 2016 Abryanz Style and Fashion Awards stylist of the year has been nominated six times for various awards, winning two within a period of three years. And with his recent win as favourite stylist at the Lifestyle and Fashion Awards, Mahalie needs no introduction.
His looks always cause a stir, especially when he brings out his alter ego – Zolanski Knowles, who has rocked stunning off-the-shoulder dresses and haute couture pieces at exclusive events in Namibia and South Africa.
“My personal style is inspired by people I see on the street, the ones not in the public eye,” he tells The Weekender. “I push myself to be very creative and not have the similar look and feel. My style is very expressive, classy and elegant, with a touch of drama.”
Namibians aren’t quite open to styling, Mahalie admits, but it’s a door that is slowly but surely opening. “The reason why this cannot be a full-time job in Namibia is merely because of our population. Frankly speaking, the fashion industry is not getting support from the government and sponsors. People do not attend fashion weeks; fashion designers and stylists are rarely supported, and people don’t read fashion blogs.”
Because of this, Mahalie says a roadblock has been created in the world of fashion. “This is killing the dreams and aspirations of any blogger. We do not have enough fashion and style content on television. The Namibian fashion industry tries and is still trying to make the industry a success with our own resources. I’ll advise anyone who wants to venture into the Namibian fashion industry to make it happen for themselves; do not sit and wait for opportunities.”
For those eager to pursue styling, Mahalie advises them to contribute their own flair and bring their own narrative to Namibian fashion. “This is a cut-throat industry, it’s for the ones with thick skin and for risk-takers.”
Within the next five years, this celebrated stylist has plans to do charitable work down south, particularly at Keetmanshoop. “I will be happy if I can bring about impactful positive change. My dream is to style an international client and hopefully relocate to another country where I can take on styling as a full-time career and put my journalism and communication technology degree to eloquent use.”
Right now, though, Mahalie is grateful for everyone who has played a part in his five-year styling career.
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!
