ZE’RA Leather Is Fresh And New

ZE’RA Leather might be the new kid on the block but they’ve quickly caught the attention of fashionistas who value luxurious and unique accessories.

“We are deeply touched by how Namibians have supported us since the start. Our products are all about character and unique beauty,” ZE’RA Leather founder and craftsman Ernst Willem Blaauw says.

“We like to think of leather as something that ages in a unique way over time, just like every living human, therefore we do not hide the scars some of our fine Namibian leather presents. We use these scars to craft a perfect product that resembles life from its original offspring.”

The company was formed in October last year, after Blaauw was inspired to create something which could last a lifetime.

“We are living in a time where everything has a short lifespan. Most products are made from plastic, they are either fake or synthetic. Most of these products need to be replaced monthly or annually and sometimes weekly. This has started to cultivate a mindset of not the seeing true value in products anymore.”

Blaauw has no professional knowledge about the industry but believes starting it was fate.

“I stumbled upon leather and it taught me an important lesson about sustainable living. One day I saw leather and it sparked my heart and I bought a piece. At that moment I had no idea what I was going to do with it but I felt that I needed to buy it. That piece of leather ended up being a tote bag for my sister-in-law. It was not nearly ready for the market but inspired me to create more,” Blaauw recalls.

ZE’RA’s products include tote bags, sling bags, men’s toiletry bags, make-up bags, duffle bags and baby travel bags and slings.

Blaauw says those with an appreciation for something stylish to suit their everyday needs, and who value the long-term nature of leather and require something functional, will find something at ZE’RA Leather.

Although initially costly, Blaauw says with the right maintenance, leather is durable.

“Leather is easy to maintain and can endure longer than any other material used in the production of accessories. Leather is worth every penny,” he says. “Think of leather as skin, you also need to take care of it. Several stores in Namibia offer leather treatments. I would recommend treating your leather products every three to six months. Apply the oil on the leather and let it sit for a few hours to absorb.”

Blaauw says he will launch an online store in three months to target more Namibians and customers from neighbouring countries.

ZE’RA Leather products are currently available at Dishouwdt store at Ferreira’s Garden Centre in Windhoek. Follow them on Facebook for more information.

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