Online Reporter
Trust Khosa-Lifestyle Senior Writer
IT’S that time of the year again — summer is here, bringing with it a season of heat, fun, blossoms and celebration!
Many have eagerly anticipated this moment and now it’s time to enjoy the festivities.
Those with some savings to spare are already on top of the world, revelling in the joy this season brings.
The excitement, the vibrant atmosphere, and the unforgettable memories all make us yearn for paradise.
During this season, those with a keen fashion sense truly dress to impress.
Even the little ones will be part of this vibrant tapestry of celebration.
As always, we can expect a delightful summer filled with fun, fun and more fun!
Running from September to February, this is a period not to be missed on the calendar.
A family enjoys summer vibes as they feast, play games and chat
It is also during this time that boutique owners in most towns replenish their stocks, while second-hand clothes vendors trading on street pavements, in ghettos, and at flea markets will be making a killing.
As has become the norm, ladies go out of their way to outdo each other during this time of year.
The recently held Doek & Slay event at Alexandra Park in Harare and Gweru set the tone for what to expect this summer.
There was almost everything you might think of, as ladies were clad in short pleated skirts, which are likely to become a common phenomenon for party-goers this season. Some were on point in long dresses with cutouts, leaving part of their flesh exposed.
Others donned crop tops and matching jorts in what turned out to be a fashion show. In some mixed events, we have seen a growing trend of women wearing skirts or dresses with long vents, which have left men drooling.
This is all because of the usually money-spinning summer season, which is famed for creating memories that remain engraved in the minds of many.
Already, we have also seen a growing number of ladies donning satin skirts, crop tops, and ankle boots. With the temperatures being friendly in most parts of Zimbabwe during this spell, traveling is usually much safer, allowing holiday-makers to maximise the good weather.
A survey by The Herald on Saturday Lifestyle showed that ladies were already in a summer season mood, while men’s lifestyle of imbibing, braaing, and watching soccer in both sports bars and dingy watering holes has continued as usual. It should be mentioned that ladies are already far ahead, with some socialites and entrepreneurs cashing in on this season. Model, socialite, and businesswoman, Faith Naphazi — better known as Faith Candy — has already replenished stocks at her cosmetics shop.
“I welcome summer with gratitude because we want people to keep glowing,” she stressed.
“Ladies want to look good, and this can only be showcased in summer because the temperatures are favourable. During winter, most people want to look warm, and they end up prioritising clothes that make them feel warm.”
A second clothes vendor, Janet Hwaire from Warren Park D, has welcomed this season for giving her business a boost.
Football fans in a pub.
“These days, I see more people coming here looking for summer T-shirts,” shared Janet, who has been selling her wares for over two years.
“Most people nowadays want to look presentable but don’t have the money for boutiques. A good T-shirt here costs only U$1, and with ironing, it looks brand new,” she explained with pride.
Janet added that she also gives styling tips to customers:
“I tell them how to mix colours and how to wear one T-shirt in different ways. Fashion doesn’t need to be expensive; it just needs to be creative.”
Another clothing vendor, Plaxedes Chimoto from Bulawayo city centre, shared similar sentiments about the new season. “We are making good business here, but we are always playing cat and mouse with the municipal police. On a good day, we are making a killing, and I can tell you that Bulawayo ladies want to look good all the time, and this has always been the case here,” noted Chimoto.
Harare hairstylist Lindy Nyamadzawo, who enjoys partying in all-female groups, noted that summer is the time to travel. “Some of us work very hard, and we need time to reflect by traveling as far as Mutare.
This season is special to us, and we always have fun in summer. When it comes to dressing, this is the time we dress the way we do because we need to freshen up and merry-make with our peers,” she stressed.
“Last year, we travelled to Kadoma for some festival, proceeded to Chinhoyi Caves, and the road trip was really enjoyable. A repeat of the same road trip is likely to happen this year because we have the savings to do so,” she added.
The entertainment scene has also proved popular for party-goers because the warm temperatures make outdoor activities and gatherings enjoyable.
People are known for hosting barbecues, picnics, and pool parties, taking advantage of the sunshine. Research has shown that summer, which coincides with various cultural festivals and events, such as music festivals, arts fairs, and traditional ceremonies, attracts large crowds and provides vibrant atmospheres for socialising.
Locally, we have plenty of these, ranging from the Kadoma Music Festival to the Jacaranda Festival and Lake Masvingo Festival, to mention a few. With favorable temperatures, most of these activities are usually outdoor shows that have become popular with fans.
Further research has shown that many people take vacations during the summer, allowing for more leisure time to attend parties and social events. This has benefited entrepreneurs in the travel and car rental business, with new players cashing in on the summer season.
For those in love with nature, the summer season is the way to go because the lush landscapes during this season, with blooming flora and fauna, provide picturesque settings for gatherings and parties, enhancing the overall experience.
“I just love this season, especially when the Jacaranda trees bloom. It’s something I always enjoy watching and traveling to other parts of the country to view the beautiful landscapes,” remarked Shamiso Mleya.
For many, this season is a bit special for those who love their culture. Traditionally, summer is a time for celebrating life, community, and cultural heritage in Zimbabwe, with many traditional practices and rituals taking place, fostering a sense of unity and joy.
For instance, September has been described as Mbira Month, with the launch set for September 27. All this has been made easier since September boasts friendly temperatures.
For club-goers, the vibrant nightlife scene in cities like Harare and Bulawayo comes alive during summer, with clubs and bars hosting special events and parties, attracting both locals and tourists.
Themed parties are usually held at this time of the year around the country as merry-making becomes a staple. “I like summer because I get more bookings than any other season,” stated club DJ Bigg Dollar Bruce.
After all has been said, all these factors combine to create an energetic and festive environment that is perfect for social gatherings and celebrations.
As the season is underway, we can only embrace summer and create new memories.
Summer has always been known for bringing people together, especially during this vibrant time
