Mthokozisi Ncube, [email protected]
BULAWAYO model Lwandile Ndlovu is setting her sights on international runways after making her debut at Zimbabwe Fashion Week 2026, where she showcased designs from some of the country’s leading fashion talents.
For Ndlovu, the opportunity was more than a chance to model clothes. It was the fulfilment of a long-held dream and a significant step towards establishing herself in the fashion industry.
She earned her place after responding to the official Zimbabwe Fashion Week model casting call, emerging among the hopefuls selected to grace the runway.
Held under the theme SOWN: Rooted in Zimbabwe, the fashion showcase celebrated Zimbabwean identity, heritage and creativity through contemporary design.
Ndlovu walked for several designers and labels, including Nollie B, Monkey Rain Atelier, Mowoko, Satclo, Tapfumanei Munenge, Planet Avur, Tealisa, Bakari, Amezeeya and Empowerment.
Among the standout looks she modelled was a feather-embellished mini dress by Tapfumanei Munenge, featuring a structured strapless sweetheart neckline, a champagne-toned textured base and peacock-feather-inspired details accented with metallic-green embroidery.
The outfit’s raw, fringed edges along the neckline and hem added texture and movement, while rose-gold strappy platform sandals completed the look.
Another striking ensemble from Smokey Rain Atelier featured a deconstructed, strapless midi dress combining dark grey pinstriped suiting fabric with sheer mesh panels and geometric cut-outs.
Neon-pink feather or fringe detailing running down the sides created a bold contrast against the darker fabric.
The looks demonstrated the range of contemporary fashion presented on the runway, from elaborate statement pieces to more understated ready-to-wear designs.
A minimalist pastel co-ord offered a different aesthetic, pairing a relaxed, long-sleeved mint-green shirt with matching straight-leg trousers. Dark buttons provided contrast, while a structured tan corduroy tote bag complemented the outfit’s relaxed, everyday appeal.
For Ndlovu, however, the experience extended beyond the clothes themselves.
“Being part of Zimbabwe Fashion Week was a dream come true. It proved to me that I belong in the modelling industry and opened doors I had long been praying for,” she said.
She described walking under the bright camera lights and sharing the excitement backstage with fellow models as some of her favourite moments.
The event’s theme also resonated with her, reinforcing the importance of embracing one’s background and cultural identity.
“It means owning where you come from. It reminds me that our roots are our strength and that our fashion tells our story,” she said.
