Online Reporter
Maria Chiguvari
Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
The fashion world is mourning the loss of renowned designer Rosemary Vambe, popularly known as Ashava, whose untimely passing has sent shockwaves through the industry.
She died on Tuesday and mourners are gathered in Highfield, Harare.
Messages of grief and heartfelt tributes are flooding in, celebrating her legacy and impact on Zimbabwe’s fashion scene.
Ashava was a trailblazer, known for her bold and innovative designs that showcased the best of African fashion.
Industry peers, friends, and fans are sharing their condolences, remembering Ashava’s passion, creativity, and dedication to her craft.
Many said her contributions to the industry will be deeply missed, and her influence will continue to inspire future generations of designers.
Prominent creative entrepreneur, arts journalist, and cultural curator Plot Mhako said Ashava’s work was a testament to her talent and vision.
“I am deeply saddened at the news of the passing on of Ashava. She was a wonderful person and dedicated to her work. Very kind and inspiring. Last year she gave me an outfit to wear at the Zim Hip Hop awards and some bags for my cameras. May her soul rest in peace.”
Fellow designer Tendai Makaya said: “As we celebrate the remarkable life of Ashava, who passed on yesterday, we honour her enduring legacy as one of Zimbabwe’s most innovative designers and trailblazers.
“I fondly remember taking our stitch-by-stitch ladies to her shop, where she would warmly welcome us and share inspiring words like “Shinga mwanasikana hapana chinouya wakagara”.
“Although we won’t get to visit her this year, her life story will continue to inspire generations to come. Rest in peace Ashava, your impact will never be forgotten.”
Zandile Zaza Ndlovu said: “This is not a good week at all. I just learnt of the passing of Ashava Designs Rosemary Vambe. This beautiful lady would dress me for events as she knew I loved African designs. And she would tease me about how my body was made to fill up a dress.
“She was such a vibe especially at Zim Tourism events and at Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small to Medium Enterprise Development events. And she loved to dance. Truly heartbroken. Rest in Peace vakoma.”
Singer and songwriter, Nevin Musique narrated how she came in contact with Ashava. “The CEO of Starbrite Barney Mpariwa asked her to dress one of Starbrite’s former contestants and she couldn’t choose one. She saw my video Ngirozi on ZTV and chose me.
“She texted me saying, “I was looking for something I consider authentic, there’s something about your look, your sound and how you carry yourself, you have this African look. I saw you and said she’s the one. I went back to her shop to return the clothes after a video shoot and she said, maybe you didn’t get what I said, I gave you at no cost.
“She believed in me and said every artist/ musician is remembered for something, a signature look (hair, fashion sense etc), character/ personality, you are going to be known and remembered for that voice.”
