Founder & Corporate had an opportunity to have a chit-chat with one of Zimbabwe’s most talented fashion designers, the amazing Yolanda Dube Hadebe of Bespoke by Yolanda, a brand that’s geared to take Africa and the world by storm.

Tell us a little about yourself and your background:

My name is Yolanda Nothando Hadebe, nee Dube. Born and bred in Bulawayo. I am 37 years old, married to Francis Hadebe, and we have one amazing son, Azariah Ligugu Hadebe.

Education: BCom Marketing & Masters in International Business.

How did you get into fashion design?

I got into the Bridal fashion industry by default. I have always been a creative person from as far back as primary school. I love and enjoy working with my hands. So after completing my tertiary studies in 2008 I was not able to land a formal job in the country that i was in. I returned back home to Zimbabwe in early 2009 trying to search for a job, but to no avail.

Since I had already started sewing as a hobby whilst at university, I decided to take my sewing seriously, but still job searching. I didn’t have a particular speciality, I literally tried everything. I made bedding, cushions, kids clothes, handbags, formal wear and anything that can be made using a sewing machine.

One day in February 2011 as I was in a fabric shop I used to frequent quite a lot, I was approached by a lady who said she had been directed to me by some shop assistants. She was coming from Victoria Falls and was in search of someone who could make her bridesmaids dresses. Lo and behold, I had never made speciality clothing like bridesmaids’ dresses, and I clearly expressed that to her.

The long and short of it is that she kindly insisted and convinced me to make her dresses, and so the journey of custom-made bridalwear began on that day. That year, I made three more sets of bridesmaids dresses and began to fall in love with making bridal and eventswear.

In 2012 I made my first attempt at designing and making my first two wedding dresses and showcased them at the Zimbabwe International Tradefair and we grew from there.

What led you to rebrand from YD Bridal to Bespoke by Yolanda, and what’s the difference between the two?

When covid hit in 2020 things really went downhill fast. For a long time as YD Bridal we had now been specializing in strictly custom made wedding gowns. Therefore with the continuous lockdowns most weddings were canceled and prospective clients were forced to put their plans on hold. Just like many other businesses, we were not spared. The difficult decision to completely closed down was therefore made.

After a much needed break I had time to refresh and I was ready to begin the journey once more and give it another go. Having had time to think, to reflect and to go back to the drawing board, there were many lessons I learnt during the sabbatical. Including that its ok to take a step back when you feel overwhelmed, because your mental health and happiness is a priority.

I also learnt that one needs to listen to the market. Listen to what the customer wants and needs. Indeed we realised that the bulk of our prospective clients desired other products besides wedding gowns only. Hence the name change from ‘Yolanda Dube Bridal’ to ‘Bespoke by Yolanda’. The name Yolanda Dube Bridal was very much associated with bridalwear and, hence, limiting for the direction we have now shifted into.

Instead of focusing and limiting our product offering to wedding gowns, we have included; traditional wedding outfits otherewise known as lobola/roora outfits, evening gowns and speciailty wear as well as classic everyday dresses which have a special touch to them. All made with a whole lot of love and attention to detail.

What factors do you think have played a role in your success as a designer?

To be honest, I believe success is a broad term that encompasses many areas. There are many goals and aspirations I still have but have not achieved. However, I can attribute the few wins and successes I have to being led by God. I entered into this industry without any certification, professional experience, or training. Essentially, it has been learning on the job, so to speak. I can testify that what I am able to do with my hands and mind is a God-given gift.

Secondly, having the attitude of continuously learning from others. There is always something you can learn from the next person. Thirdly, having an attitude of service. As much as we are in business to make money, an attitude of service is always key. My personal mantra is to always exceed the expectations of every client, from the finish of the dress, to service.

Finally, passion is what keeps me going. I am very passionate about what I do. I don’t just make dresses give an unforgettable experience to each client that walks through our doors.

What advice would you give to aspiring fashion designers?

I would say: never tell yourself that you are the best – be open to learning and adapt. Professionalism is key. It’s not just about creativity, but issues like delivering on time. Time management needs to be taken seriously.

Lastly, at times we as creatives tend to neglect financial and business management. We become excited about the creative side of the job and neglect the financial and business side of the enterprise. It is crucial to balance the two. Unfortunately, we often find that many creatives in the design and arts industry are tremendously gifted but struggle to make ends meet. So, as a designer, you need to know how to make your work profitable enough to sustain you and also grow your brand to the point that it can work for you.

How can prospective clients get in touch with you?

Prospective clients can get in touch by sending their enquires to whatsapp number +263774682459. They can also see our work on our social media platforms on Facebook and Instagram @bespokebyyolanda.