Mthokozisi Ncube [email protected]
FASHION designer Panashe Muchuchuti, popularly known as Designer Kirisi, marked a major milestone at the 2026 Zimbabwe Fashion Week (ZFW), showcasing his clothing line through a collection inspired by creativity, ambition and the possibilities of local textiles.
His collection, Thread of the Nation, featured streetwear formal suits, tailored summer vests and statement overcoat jackets, reflecting his approach to pushing the boundaries of streetwear.
Muchuchuti said his label, For3ver Alone Streetwear, was built on the idea that fashion should not be restricted by conventional rules about fabrics and occasions.
“I specialise in streetwear, with a strong focus on denim, but I call it streetwear without limits. I can take a fabric people consider casual and turn it into anything, from a denim bridal dress to a formal suit or a statement piece,” he said.
He said Thread of the Nation celebrated the versatility of textiles produced by David Whitehead Textiles, after he was selected as one of the company’s cohort designers.
“My collection is living proof that with David Whitehead fabric, you can stitch and craft anything. From school uniforms and corporate wear to high end streetwear and sportswear, the possibilities are endless,” he said.
Muchuchuti’s journey to the runway began during his Advanced Level studies in 2022 and 2023, when he started selling clothes to raise money for lunch. The small venture gradually developed into a fashion label driven by his interest in design, branding and distinctive clothing.
His ZFW appearance followed two years of learning behind the scenes. He worked as an assistant designer in 2024 and returned as a volunteer in 2025 before presenting his own label this year.
“For years, I watched the Zimbabwe Fashion Week runway from the shadows. I started as an assistant designer, carrying bags, steaming suits and learning in silence. In 2025, I returned as a volunteer. This year, I didn’t just watch the runway I walked it as a designer, representing my own label,” he said.
Beyond his fashion label, Muchuchuti is the official designer for Mashonaland East at the Miss Rural Zimbabwe Pageant and serves as National Assistant Wardrobe Manager, helping coordinate wardrobe designs across the participating provinces.
He said limited funding, inconsistent fabric quality and difficulties accessing resources remained some of the challenges facing emerging Zimbabwean designers. He called for greater investment, mentorship and more platforms to help local talent reach wider markets.
Looking ahead, Muchuchuti hopes to venture into costume design for international film productions and establish a fashion house where young designers, particularly those from rural communities, can develop their skills.
He also hopes to take Thread of the Nation to international fashion platforms, including fashion weeks in Nigeria and South Africa.
“We are not just making clothes. We are weaving a nation,” he said.
