Africa-Press – Eswatini. “Beauty is confidence and a confident woman is an unstoppable one.”
Maureen Massingue, founder and creative force behind the luxury fashion brand Kotini Kouture, had a full-circle moment at this year’s Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival, as her dream of seeing her work on the runway finally came true. The self-taught designer, who’s been in the fashion industry for four years, showcased her latest collection titled Kutfomba, a body of work deeply rooted in Swati cultural heritage and storytelling.
“It was such a humbling moment to have one of my childhood dreams realised,” she shared. “I was overflowing with joy and pride when I saw my work on the runway. I’d like to express gratitude to Mastercard for making this opportunity available for designers like myself. The experience feels quite surreal.”
Inspired by traditional Swati female regalia, the Kutfomba collection is a striking fusion of cultural identity and modern elegance. Maureen drew her creative vision from sidvwaba and umjijimba, two iconic pieces in Eswatini’s traditional attire. She explored the evolution of a Swati woman, her growth into self-assurance, her bold femininity, and her quiet confidence.
“The silhouette and drape of sidvwaba guided my design direction,” Maureen explained. “I used gathers and volume to express movement, growth, and grace. The woolen pom poms in the collection are a nod to umjijimba. I chose black and white, timeless, grounding, and bold colours, to reflect a woman who doesn’t need to shout to be seen.”
Her interpretation of Threads of Time was a beautiful homage to the enduring elegance of Swati culture, proving that fashion can both preserve tradition and push creative boundaries.
The response was phenomenal. Among the many admirers was renowned South African designer Thula Sindi, who complimented her velvet-trimmed poncho backstage, calling it “simply to die for.” Online, Maureen’s work was also celebrated, with fashion lovers declaring Kutfomba their favourite collection of the night.
“I was absolutely mind-blown and humbled,” she said. “I kid you not, my 9-year-old self is still in disbelief of everything.”
Beyond Luju, Maureen says Kotini Kouture is focused on growing and collaborating more within Eswatini’s vibrant creative scene. “Eswatini has such amazing talent and it’s about time we show it out,” she affirmed. “You can also look forward to more fashion shows, the future is definitely exciting.”
For Maureen, fashion is not just about fabric, it’s about identity, heritage, and authenticity. As she puts it: “True confidence does not require one to be loud. Stay grounded and always stay true to who you are.”
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
