By Khaya Masipa
Best known for its traditional blanket-inspired clothing, SA’s Pex Lifestyle is going international.
Pex Lifestyle founders and fashion designers Ayanda Nkululeko Nkosi and Siyanda Mhlahlo will be globe-trotting and making international moves in Germany.
The two created a lifestyle brand that puts a twist on ordinary blanket designs by manufacturing woven shoes and apparel that take the dull out of ordinary.
The young designers are part of the GIZ Dutch Skills Initiative for Africa, commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation.
In February, Nkosi and Mhlahlo will take part in a program that will see them exchanging skills with international designers while learning more about production and the business side of fashion in Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt Germany.
Established in 2015, the stylish brand has since strutted its gear on big fashion walkways including East Fashion Week, and Soweto Fashion Week. They are now part of the global business accelerator.
“We’re really excited to be part of this programme. We want to spread our wings and go into the international market so that our brand can be internationally known,” said Nkosi.
The duo say they want to create business partnerships and improve on their product development.
“The shoe-making course is something I am really excited for mostly, but I also want to learn from industry professionals about how to get to their level,” said Siyanda.
Their brand can be found online on their social media platforms or at their physical store at Newtown Junction Mall.
Pictured above: Fashion designers Ayanda Nkululeko Nkosi and Siyanda Mhlahlo in Pex Lifestyle apparel
Image source: Pex Lifestyle
