UMNOMBO Apparel: Boldly African

Amid a global fashion scene that often chases trends and forgets its roots, UMNOMBO Apparel stands tall, weaving the richness of African heritage into every seam. UMNOMBO Apparel, founded by Nomangesi Ngcakani-Ncula, is a South African fashion brand redefining what it means to be stylishly and unapologetically African. Known for its mix of traditional fabrics, modern silhouettes, and sustainable practices, the label continues to grow its reputation for innovation and authenticity.

Trendsetters Only magazine had the pleasure of speaking with the brand project manager Nolwazi Mtila, who shared insights into the brand’s fusion of African-inspired design with modern fashion, its sustainable practices, and its focus on celebrating heritage through expressive, meaningful clothing.

In the interview, Mtila explained that the brand’s latest collection focuses on celebrating African identity through diverse textures and materials. “Our collection plays with various types of fabric (knit, shweshwe, umbhaco, leather, sequins etc.) to create both simple and complex designs,” she said. “Since we recently showcased in Durban, we included Zulu-inspired elements like leopard-print vests, while staying true to our Xhosa Umbhaco fabric, which is our speciality.”

The collection also features light knitwear for summer and outfits that mix multiple fabrics in a single look. The goal, Mtila said, is to encourage wearers to “be daringly African in any space” while maintaining high quality and one-of-a-kind artistry. UMNOMBO’s upcoming showcase at the AfroXpression Fashion and Art Exhibition will highlight this creative approach. One standout piece uses beads in orange and yellow, colours which symbolise the sun, on a green garment inspired by African vegetation such as Aloe plants, celebrating the continent’s natural beauty through wearable art.

Beyond creativity, UMNOMBO Apparel is committed to sustainability. The team uses recycled denim and rejected fabrics from suppliers to reduce waste and emissions. Mtila emphasized that minimizing the brand’s environmental impact is a priority, “We also work with fashion consultants who help us improve our production process,”.

The brand’s design process is also deeply seasonal and experimental. Each collection is inspired by African modernity, challenging the idea that African fashion belongs outside the global mainstream. “African fashion is modern, and we’re one of the voices that echo that sentiment,” Mtila said.

Whether it’s a bold statement piece or a simple UMNOMBO logo T-shirt, every garment is designed to tell a story. “A basic tee with our logo means owning your lineage,” Mtila explained. “It can start conversations anywhere; on a bus, a plane, or in the office.” For UMNOMBO, fashion is not just about what you wear, but what it says about you. The brand invites people to embrace their heritage, express themselves confidently, and stand out without holding back.

In every stitch, print, and bead, UMNOMBO Apparel sends a clear message: being African is not outside the norm, it’s something to be proudly celebrated.