Dawn Macnab is the creative force behind Disco Dawn, an Umhlanga-based fashion brand that’s all about art, fun and self-expression.
Dawn spent many years in the fast-paced world of advertising, where she worked with big names like Mr. Price and Milady’s. But after years of juggling deadlines and late nights, she knew she needed a change. “I’m an all-or-nothing person,” Dawn explains. “And advertising was just becoming too much.” Then came the pandemic. With time on her hands and a restless creative mind, Dawn decided to channel her artistic energy into something new. She started a fun Instagram page where she sold high-quality, imported jackets. “It all started with a few jackets on a mannequin,” she laughs. “But I wanted it to be different – relaxed, fun, and not like typical shopping.”
A BRAND WITH HEART – AND LOTS OF PERSONALITY!
It wasn’t long before Disco Dawn evolved beyond jackets. Dawn’s love for travel, art and upcycling quickly found its way into her designs. Vintage tapestries, table linens and even deadstock lace and denim became the building blocks of her unique creations. From romantic linen dresses to daring catsuits perfect for a night out, there’s no limit to her creativity.
And the best part? Most pieces are a one-off. “I hate waste,” Dawn says. “So, I cut up fabrics and turn them into something special.” Whether it’s a bold resort collection inspired by her trips to Ibiza or corsets made from vintage fabric she discovered in Cape Town, each piece has a story to tell.
A FASHION EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER
Shopping with Dawn is far from your standard retail experience. She regularly hosts pop-up events where clients can sip champagne, try on clothes and even play dress-up with her infamous Disco Dawn rental box. “I want women to have fun when they shop,” she says. “It’s about making them feel confident and relaxed.”
For Dawn, community and empowerment are key. She works closely with Agatha Nyimai, a local seamstress who helps bring her designs to life. Together, they create fashion that’s personal, sustainable and always a little bit quirky.
From pop-ups to exciting collaborations with local artists, Dawn’s creative world is constantly expanding. “I’m just having fun with it,” she says. “And maybe that’s why it’s working so well.”
Details: www.discodawn.co.za; 082 572 4652; hello@discodawn.co.za; IG: @disco.dawn
Text: Jennifer Campbell Photographs: Jacques Weyers