Mzukisi Mbane, who started the brand Imprint, is gaining attention in the fashion world for his special vision and love for telling stories through clothing. While he officially registered his fashion company in 2012, it wasn’t until 2015 that Imprint truly came to life and established itself as one of the most recognizable design labels in the country.
Imprint has had the privilege of dressing notable figures such as Nomzamo Mbatha, Elsa Majimbo, and Nadia Nakai, among others. What sets Imprint apart is its ability to go beyond just clothing and walk into the art of storytelling. Each Imprint show is not solely about the clothes, but also about the narratives being shared.
Imprint stays true to its ethos of “leave a mark” by celebrating African ancestors and their stories through iconic geometric prints. The brand also collaborates with like-minded brands and entities that align with Mzukisi’s values.
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One recent collaboration that resonated with Mbane was with men’s fragrance brand Axe. The partnership made sense to him personally and professionally because both brands prioritize inclusivity and challenging traditional notions of masculinity.
Over the years, IA Mbane particularly cherishes the November 2022 Markham collection as his favourite. Imprint’s designs have traveled from South Africa to Botswana to Milan and back, and Mbane has noticed that there is still room for growth in South Africa when it comes to recognizing and appreciating local talent.
Mbane believes that appreciating local talent goes hand in hand with appreciating one’s culture. This is precisely what Imprint’s signature geometric designs represent. The brand’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection, launched in collaboration with home décor company Airloom in October 2023, has been well-received. Imprint also introduced its homeware range, Imprint Ikhaya, allowing people to bring Imprint’s unique aesthetic into their homes.
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Excitingly, Imprint is gearing up for Dakar Fashion Week in Senegal, taking place from December 7th to 10th, 2023. Mbane and his team are currently working on a collection for the event, which is considered one of the biggest fashion weeks in Africa. This opportunity allows Imprint to expand its reach and showcase its designs to a wider audience.
