FASHION WITH FUNCTION
Laduma Ngxokolo speaks about Mna Nam and the future of Maxhosa
SOUTH African designer Laduma Ngxokolo has teamed up with Sanlam to create a functional piece of fashion or wearable tech that helps the wearer save money.
The bracelet, named Mna Nam, allows its owners to improve their savings habits by diverting savings to a digital wallet with a scan of the wrist. We sat down with Ngxokolo to speak about his venture.
How did the concept of Mna Nam begin?
I was keen on being part of this venture because it’s a fairly new digital project and, as part of the millennial generation, I’m going towards that future. Because I haven’t designed accessories in my brand it was exciting for me to be part of conceptualising Mna Nam.
How did you come up with the name?
Mna Nam is a isiXhosa word that is a translation from the saying “me, myself and I”. The concept is that it’s all about self and, as a consumer, you’re not going to be buying this product for your own benefit.
How has it been received by the public?
People like the idea a lot and they like unisex aspects of it; that’s why I designed it in white and black with gold print. They love the fact it’s a fashion accessory with functionality and it can be integrated onto their phones which is where we hang around the most.
Is the bracelet locally made?
It’s 100% locally manufactured and it is produced in Cape Town.
Do you believe it is important for fashion to move towards wearable technology?
It’s very important to integrate the two. These days there are sportsperformance garments that give good insulation, wristbands that monitor heartbeat, sneakers that are flyknits which are lightweight. All these are achieved through the integration of fashion and technology.
Are you planning on showcasing your brand, Maxhosa, any time soon?
We were planning on showcasing next month but we canned that show because I didn’t want to put out something that was predictable. We planning a show, for later in the year, that is fresh because predictability is something that is common in the South African fashion industry.
Do you think the cost of your garments are viable for the South African market?
The brand’s focus is on building aspiration; it will make someone who can’t afford them want to buy a Maxhosa product. A lot of international brands have built that aspiration and people save so that they can buy the products.
Connect with Laduma on Instagram @laduma