Shiveli: Namibian Fashion with Global Ambitions

For Laina Ndahambelela Mbandi, fashion is more than just clothing. It’s a means of self-expression, empowerment and cultural representation.

Through her clothing brand, Shiveli, she aims to create bold, accessible fashion that resonates with ambitious, unapologetic individuals, while also positioning Namibian fashion on the global stage.

“With Namibian women as the focal point of my designs, I’ve always strived to offer fashion that resonates with their lifestyle, identity and sense of pride,” she explains in an interview in which she shares her vision and story.

Born at Oranjemund and raised in Windhoek, Mbandi is a legal practitioner by profession who found herself in a rut, searching for something more out of life.

“During my early twenties, I found myself waking up each day feeling a sense of not being fulfiled, as though something was missing. The drive and passion that once motivated me had begun to fade, and I knew I needed a change,” she says of the time that led her to study fashion design and buying principles at the Cape Town College of Fashion Design.

From that moment, she tells us that everything “clicked” and she was able to explore a passion that had long been close to her heart, bringing her immense joy. She fondly recalls uncovering a “hidden part” of herself through this course, which included many defining moments that solidified for her that she had found her true calling.

“Fashion has always been a part of me, even as a child, whether it was my fascination with clothing and accessories or the way I viewed the world through style. That moment at fashion school made everything clear to me: fashion was where I was meant to be. It was more than just a career; it was a form of self-expression and the perfect path forward.”

This led to the creation of fashion brands Lulama & Lupita, and her latest venture, Shiveli. She describes the latter, with its elaborate silhouettes and refined, feminine cuts, as more than just a ready-to-wear clothing brand. To her, it’s a tribute to women who are bold, trailblazing and unapologetic.

“The name is inspired by my own journey as the firstborn, and it embodies the spirit of strength and resilience that comes with that role,” she says. “We offer a range of fashion-forward items that exude sophistication, elegance and boldness – without the hefty price tag typically associated with luxury.”

She says her brand strives to make stylish, high-quality clothing accessible to all women, ensuring that no matter your budget, you can embrace modern, chic femininity.

“Our designs are all about making bold, distinctive statements. Every piece is thoughtfully sourced or created to make you stand out with a fresh and stylish flair. When you wear Shiveli, you’re not just dressing up – you’re embracing the fierce, amazing woman you are,” she says, adding that she designs clothing for fashion enthusiasts who aren’t afraid to stand out, love to make bold fashion choices and aren’t shy about being the centre of attention.

Mbandi also emphasises that she has, over the years, paid close attention to fashion trends, seasons, colour palettes and fabrics, helping her create a “mental vault” filled with her vision, with the aim of creating fresh and timeless pieces.

Entrepreneurship and artistry are not without their challenges. We asked the 31-year-old designer about some of the hurdles she faces along her journey, and she named two. The first has to do with perceptions around her being a seamstress, when the truth is more complex.

“While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with being a seamstress, my business model goes beyond that. I view what I do as creating art – fashion pieces that are made with intention and are products in themselves,” she explains.

Another challenge is the accessibility of the market.

“Despite the advantages of the internet, many Namibians still prefer brick-and-mortar shopping,” she says. “It’s crucial for me to meet my customers where they are – in physical stores – while also navigating the hurdles of funding to scale and competing on a global level.”

Despite this, Mbandi is dreaming big and has major plans for the future of her art. She envisions Shiveli becoming a globally competitive brand, standing alongside names like Zara, Topshop, River Island and House of CB.

“My goal is to build a sustainable Namibian clothing brand that can be exported globally, while also providing opportunities for fellow Namibians. I’m also excited about collaborating with other Namibian creatives on unique projects, as well as launching a T-shirt series where a portion of proceeds will go toward supporting charitable causes.”

Mbandi is not just a creative; she is tapped into the business aspects of her brand, recognising the immense potential of Namibia’s growing apparel market and positioning Shiveli as a key player in a multi-million-dollar industry.

“If local brands can capture just 10% of this expanding market, it would not only contribute to the country’s economic growth but also fuel a movement where Namibian clothing is proudly worn by Namibians themselves. This is more than a market opportunity – it’s a chance to shape the future of Namibian fashion, promote homegrown talent and foster national pride,” she says.

For your own piece, follow @ shiveli__ online.

– Anne Hambuda is a writer, social commentator and poet. Follow her online or email her at annehambuda@gmail.com for more