Many of us will have come upon Rachel and her unique clothing stalls at community markets north of Durban. Her passion for fabrics began as a child in a small village in Kenya.
“I was a very shy, quiet little girl and felt I didn’t fit in at school. Then one day my uncle and aunt gave me a Cinderella dress and another outfit with blue with white stripes. I sneaked them into school in my schoolbag to show my classmates – and got their attention!
“From a shy, quiet girl I became a ‘mini celeb’,” she laughs. “From then on I have always loved playing with fabrics and colours and making ideas become a reality.”
Rachel’s currently selling her clothes at various markets – uMhlanga Farmers’ Market, Litchi Orchard, Sugar Market (Salt Rock) and others. Most of Rachel’s fabrics are imported from different parts of Africa, and her Kikoys – ethnic sarongs worn by men and women – are particularly popular. “A good design should be something different, yet easy to wear and also stand the test of time,” says Rachel.
“I have learnt in this business to be braver, to take risks. I am fortunate in that my customers and people I meet at the markets are supportive and encouraging. I see it as a beautiful journey together.” – Lee Currie
FOR MORE INFO:
WhatsApp: 060 563 4434
Pictures: Marc Currie