After a missed opportunity in 2024 due to financial constraints, Namibian fashion designer Mellisa Poulton is set to fulfil her long-held dream of showcasing her collection at Paris Fashion Week later this year through support from the National Arts Council of Namibia (NACN).
Poulton, known for her stunning fashion collections, was recently announced as one of the 12 grant recipients selected by the NACN in 2025.
The funding, she confirmed, will go towards her long-anticipated participation in Paris Fashion Week this coming October.
In an interview with VIBEZ!, she expressed gratitude and excitement about the opportunity.
“Yes, I am planning on using the funds for Paris Fashion Week. I will be going early in October to take part,” she said.
Poulton noted that the funding will cover a range of critical expenses, including materials, photoshoots, videography and travel arrangements for her and her team.
“The funding will assist with buying fabric and all essential items to complete my collection, video shoots and photography, and getting us to Paris,” she added.
“I would like to thank the NACN for accepting my grant application. I appreciate the support and knowing that my work has value, and that Namibia supports me. I am not only achieving my dream, but I am taking a proudly Namibian product to an international market,” the designer beamed.
“With this funding, it not only supports my journey to Paris Fashion Week, but it is the first step into opening doors to what I have planned for my business and for my country.”
House of Poulton’s aim is to become a global luxury brand, and she is inspired by the four elements and nature in general. Last year’s lilac and gauzy ‘Jacaranda’ collection has been particularly popular, and speaks to Poulton’s aptitude for structuring different fabrics to create feminine, bold and powerful silhouettes.
The Namibian fashion industry has seen remarkable growth in recent years, with an explosion of local designers showcasing their creativity and receiving increasing support from the community. Fashion shows play a crucial role in this development, offering designers a platform to display their work, attract buyers, and engage with potential
clients.
Events like the MTC Windhoek Fashion Week and Katutura Fashion Show have significantly contributed to this progress, helping to elevate Namibian fashion to greater heights. Now, the next step is to capture the attention of international buyers, and present Namibian designs on the global stage.
-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na