Hola peeps! I am so excited because today I have a fab interview with designer Farai Simoyi to share with you guys! If you are a devoted follower of SNC then I am sure you have seen pics of her gorgeous designs before here. NYFW S/S12 was the third time I have had the pleasure of viewing a collection of hers (Desert Oasis was this year’s theme) and each time I am in awe of her talent. I love that she used tons of colors, various fabrics and colorful braids in this year’s show. After the fashion week rush calmed down I reached out to find a little more about Farai and she graciously obliged. Enjoy!
***Tell us about your background—when did you start designing or better yet how did you get your start?
I started learning & experimenting with design when I was a young child. My Mum, Aunts, & Grandmother all used to make their own clothing and my Aunt actually ended up opening her own lingerie company. When I was 5 years old, at the early stages of my Aunts company, I used to play in her factory and she would always give me scraps of fabric with needle & thread, which kept me occupied for hours, as I would make little skirts and dresses for me and my dolls.
***Where do you get your inspiration from for your designs?
I gain most of my inspiration from my background and everything that defines not only me, but others that can relate. I am Zimbabwean & I am British born so when I design I like to look into the history of my roots and draw my initial inspirations from those aspects, but then I like to integrate vintage & modern appeal.
***What is your 5 year plan for your brand–expansion into stores, more products such as handbags/shoes? Do tell…
I have a daily plan, weekly plan, 1 year plan, 10 year plan…and I am working very hard to achieve all the dreams & goals I have for the brand. I hope you will all stay tuned and will follow me on this journey…you will not be disappointed!!
***What is on your Fall fashion radar, your must have for the season?
Scarves…long scarves, chunky scarves, knitted scarves those are heavy on my radar for fall. A simple sweater, a great pair of jeans, and some great platform boots, then pair it with an amazing scarf and you are all set!
***I see that you are natural (yippy!) can you share a bit about your regimen or your fave product?
Yes! I love my hair. I wash my hair with an Olive Oil based Shampoo, then I condition with a cap with Shea Moisture Deep Treatment Masque. Then I use the Shea Moisture Curl Enhancing Smoothie as a leave in and style!
***Is there anything else that you would like to share? Contact info, where we can buy your collection, etc….
For more information on my brand visit us at www.faraisimoyi.com. Join our Fab List for updates on promotions, sales, & events…it’s a great way to stay connected to our brand. You can also follow us on twitter @FaraiSimoyi.
***All pics taken by J Stynze Entertainment (@JStynze on Twitter).
