Fashion designer Jennifer Dumbrill of African Wax Prints has always felt a strong connection to Africa. We chatted to her about her background and design philosophy.

Where were you born and raised?

I was born in Corryong, Victoria, Australia, to a British father and a South African mother. We returned to South Africa when I was three months old, and I was raised in all four former provinces.

How did you end up in fashion design?

I started my career as a junior patternmaker at a large commercial factory in Tongaat in KwaZulu-Natal. After moving to Cape Town, I graduated from junior designer to head designer at various companies. Following that, I partnered with my brother James in The Chile Clothing Company, and for 18 years we designed and supplied a variety of chain stores and upmarket boutiques. I recently started my own company, Coal Africa, which has allowed me to pursue my African dream.

What’s the first garment you designed?

An evening gown for my Barbie doll.

Who did you show it to first?

My mother. She was my first sewing teacher and taught me hand sewing, machine sewing, hand embroidery, knitting and crochet – all of which I am still skilled at.

What is your design philosophy?

I love it when a person feels good in what they are wearing. So the clothes should fit, be beautifully made and suit the individual. The fabric inspires my design.

Where do you source your fabric?

I have a local supplier whom I deal with for the ready-to-wear collection. It is an Indian cotton base and mostly comes from the mid-east African countries. The heavier-base wax prints are sourced from Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Nigeria, Mali, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana and the DRC.

You love your Rhodesian Ridgeback…

I acquired Leo from The Rhodesian Ridgeback Rescue Organisation. He is my joy and my guardian angel.

Jennifer’s collections are sold at various boutiques, galleries, game lodges, beach resorts and hotels. For stockists, call 082 610 0710.

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