Online Reporter
Sipepisiwe Moyo, [email protected]
On a beautiful morning in Bulawayo, a passerby can’t help but notice something unusual – schoolchildren crossing the streets, dressed in vintage fashion. Unlike the contemporary styles usually seen, these young fashionistas are embracing a look reminiscent of days gone by. It’s vintage fashion, and it’s giving Bulawayo a unique vibe, turning heads and sparking conversations in the city.
The latest generation seems to have developed an irresistible fascination with vintage fashion, as if channelling the style spirits of their ancestors. The trend is making waves not only at school functions but also at modern events, offering a refreshing departure from the standard themes.
Events like the women-only Doek and Slay, school functions, and the ever-popular Pub Choir are embracing this vintage revival. One of the most notable instances occurred just this past weekend in Harare, where the Ecobank Legends Night celebrated Zimbabwean music legends. The event, honouring those who paved the way for emerging talent, saw performers wearing vintage-inspired outfits, with attendees following suit.
The nostalgic atmosphere has been further enriched by classic music events like the Private School and Old Skool gatherings, which have gained significant popularity in both Harare and Bulawayo.
In Bulawayo, the vintage movement has gained such momentum that it has become an entire subculture, with groups regularly parading the streets dressed in bell-bottom jeans, oversized blazers, straw hats and other iconic pieces from the past. The movement is gaining more traction, with fashion enthusiasts proudly showcasing their unique style choices.
Welsh the Stylist, a prominent fashion designer and the founder of the Vintage Movement in Bulawayo, describes it as a collaborative initiative that unites fashion lovers across the city and beyond.
“Vintage is a movement that I started around 2014. People were so drawn to it that they began seeking ways to get involved. Their passion for vintage inspired me to pursue fashion designing and tailoring,” he said.
Welsh said the first vintage parade was an introductory one, and it went viral. Since then, more parades have followed, capturing the public’s attention and becoming a platform for showcasing the city’s unique fashion sense.
Welsh continues to mentor aspiring designers, nurturing the next generation of fashion enthusiasts with a passion for the past.
The influence of vintage fashion is undeniable, and its revival is not just about style but about a deeper connection to history, culture, and identity.
From the streets of Bulawayo to the fashion runways, this retro movement continues to grow, bridging generations and creating a vibrant new trend in the world of fashion.
Vintage fashion is not just a trend; it is a movement, and Bulawayo is leading the way.
