In an era where robotics and mechanisation are monopolising industries, there is a certain appreciation that should be lent towards creativity, innovation and good old-fashioned craftsmanship.
Natalia Weiko, mastermind behind SkinInStitches, has utilised her affinity for knitting and crocheting to create a sensual line of summer clothing which hugs the female body, embracing its curves all around.
Born and raised in Windhoek, Weiko moved to Ondangwa, where she is now based, to be with her mother after the death of her grandmother in 2018. Growing up with her grandmother in Windhoek from the age of 11, she would knit various garments for the household, which also included clothes for her dolls and her granny’s ornaments.
“I did it all for fun, it was all about the passion for me.”
Her dreams of studying finance at the International University of Management this year were shattered by several unfortunate events brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.
Left without funding for her further studies, and with a lot of time on her hands, she started toying with the idea of SkinInStitches.
“I chose summer clothing because in Namibia, we don’t really have a long and cold winter,” she says. “I was inspired to do crop tops and bikinis because of the way my body is.”
Weiko’s mother, with whom she lives, urged her to create things she would like to wear and which make her feel beautiful.
Writer and entertainer Anne Hambuda, who grabbed some of the SkinInStitches garments for herself says she loves the captivating ambience of the line. “What I love about SkinInStitches is the ability to make me feel confident, it just sits so well on my body.”
As the dream of SkinInStitches started off as a hobby, Weiko now has bigger plans for her artistry.
“I want to own a big company one day,” she says. “I want to be well known for my creations and I want to dress models one day,” she adds, noting that she would also like to share her skills and teach others how to knit and create designs from scratch.
Follow SkinInStitches on Instagram and Twitter, slide in the DMs or contact her at 081 828 7797.
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