The forthcoming MTC Windhoek Fashion Week is poised to create a historic moment with the inaugural presentation of the Damara Horokhoes on the runway, signifying a notable cultural achievement for the event.
The exhibition, entitled ‘Trails of the Damara Horokhoes’, will commence the week’s activities on 6 November at the City of Windhoek Conference Hall.
This fresh cultural emphasis underscores the significance of safeguarding and promoting Namibia’s rich heritage through the medium of fashion.
The Damara Horokhoes showcase will honour traditional garments and cultural meanings, providing a distinctive venue for cultural exchange at one of Namibia’s leading fashion occasions.
Wendy !Naruses’, Project Lead of ǂNīsadi Horokhoes MFWeek, expressed that the group feels deeply honoured and thrilled to participate in this event.
The Damara dress embodies a wealth of history and craftsmanship, presenting a wonderful opportunity to share their culture with a broader audience. This represents a crucial advancement for them in celebrating their heritage on such a distinguished platform.
“We will be showcasing five distinct themes, which are a surprise. However, they are guided by the original blueprint of the Horokhoes to avoid tampering with the important features,” she said.
She emphasised that the debut of the Damara dress at Fashion Week will not only highlight this particular garment, but also provide a platform for designers and artisans to explore innovative creative expressions, while honouring the cultural significance of the dress. She added that the event will enhance the visibility of these designs on both local and international stages, promoting recognition of
traditions.
She remarked that the Damara dress stands as a testament to resilience, creativity and cultural pride.
It embodies the history and lifestyle of the Damara people, with each piece narrating a distinct story through its design. “More than mere fabric, it represents woven elements of our ancestral heritage. Its revival is crucial for reclaiming space within the community as Damara people – and most importantly, it serves as a symbol of unity,” she divulged.
“This event is not just a fashion show. It is a celebration of community and tradition. Models will design their dresses and accessories, working in groups to ensure authenticity. With an international and local audience, this event is an opportunity for cultural exchange, networking and showcasing the depth of our passion for fashion and cultural preservation,” she said. Luis Munana, director of MTC Windhoek Fashion Week, emphasised the importance of cultural representation in fashion.
“Our cultural identity is vital, and a true portrayal plays a pivotal role in society. Fashion tells stories, and through the Damara Horokhoes’ showcase, we are proud to share these narratives with the world. Cultural attire connects us to our roots, and inspires innovation in fashion,” he said.
He said this signifies the commencement of a comprehensive initiative, aimed at integrating more cultural aspects into upcoming fashion weeks, thereby enhancing the Namibian fashion scene.
By merging traditional elements with contemporary fashion, the event promotes diversity and innovation, while also motivating local designers to present garments that hold cultural importance.
“The Trails of the Damara Horokhoes will establish the framework for a series of runway presentations and activities, scheduled from 6 to 9 November 2024, culminating in a magnificent outdoor runway event on Independence Avenue,” he stated.
Since its inception in 2016, MTC Windhoek Fashion Week has served as a premier platform, showcasing the finest in both local and international design. This year’s event, centred on themes of accessibility and retail, continues to advance Namibia’s fashion industry, while paying tribute to its cultural heritage.