From lawyer to fashion designer. That’s Phoebe Mwanza.
Phoebe, who owns and operates The Prodigal Daughter, was always drawn to making clothes, right back to her end-of-year formals when she lived in Zimbabwe.
Phoebe arrived in Australia at age 19 to study law. After starting to practice, however, something deep inside Phoebe made her switch gears and pursue the more flamboyant and colourful world of fashion. It was then that she took the bold move to quit her job and open The Prodigal Daughter, in August 2014.
Through her label, Phoebe seeks to consolidate her two worlds and cultures, marrying Africa’s bold and colourful prints to Australia’s tempered, mute landscape. For Phoebe, clothing isn’t just something you wear on your back. It’s a statement—a way of celebrating individuality.
The collection she’ll launch at FASHFEST 2015, on opening night (Wednesday 13 May), is entitled ‘Meraki’, which means to pour all energy, heart and soul into something.
Meraki is different from Phoebe’s last collection. The designer will always be drawn to vibrant patterns, sourcing fabrics from various parts of Africa. But this time she’ll mix them with block colours.
“There’s something in this collection for everyone,” says Phoebe. “It’s funky, but also sophisticated and elegant. There’s something for day and night and, for the first time, I’ll launch a few pieces for men.”
“I’m so excited to have been accepted into FASHFEST,” says the designer. “So excited. It’s my first big show. I can’t wait for a larger audience to see my work.”
The Prodigal Daughter will also be at Day Five, Sunday 17 May, along with about 18 other FASHFEST designers.
To be held at the National Convention Centre, Day Five is a unique opportunity to visit designers, talk to them personally, try garments on or get measured up for that special order. Entry is free and it’s on from 2.00pm to 7.00pm.
Fashfest is about two weeks away, so don’t miss out on the best seats in the house. Wed 13 to Sat 16 May. Tickets on sale now: www.fashfest.com.au
