Khanyi Malimela is the designer behind Mila, a clothing brand that’s all about clean lines and comfortable fabrics.
Khanyi’s passion for design was sparked as a teenager. Inspired by her mother’s love for sewing and her grandmother’s skills as a seamstress, she started making clothes for herself, both out of necessity and a desire to express herself creatively. “Being plus-sized, I had a problem finding age-appropriate clothes in the shops, so I started making stuff for myself,” she explains.
A CLASSIC AESTHETIC
Khanyi’s designs are characterised by their minimalistic and timeless appeal. “I love simple, clean lines,” she says, describing her most recent collection of linen kimonos and two-pieces. Her colour palette of choice is predominantly pastels and neutrals, and she says she loves the elegance of subdued tones. She mostly works with linen and cotton to create pieces that are comfortable and easy to wear, and is drawn to classic designs. “I like making items that could be in your wardrobe for a long time but still be relevant,” she shares.
Model Londie Mazibuko wearing a Mila design and one of Khanyi’s latest designs
HARD WORK & PATIENCE
When Khanyi isn’t working on her clothing line, she helps manage her family’s guesthouse Number Six in Umhlanga. She also balances life as an entrepreneur with her role as mom to her three-year-old son. For aspiring women in business, Khanyi offers sage advice: “Be realistic about your expectations. Nothing is built overnight – it takes a lot of dedication and hard work.”
BUILDING A BRAND
Khanyi initially started sewing in her garage, and while hustling hard, she managed to get her designs into boutiques in Umhlanga. In 2014, she was selected for the eThekwini Municipality’s fashion programme, which included a two-month internship in Milan, Italy. This experience was transformative, validating her work and propelling her brand forward. “It was amazing! The brand has just been growing ever since then,” she reflects.
Text: Jennifer Campbell
Images: Khanyi Malimela
