Drawn into the world of fashion

A journey of passion and creativity unfolds with Delia //Khaises, weaving her dreams into reality from the corridors of Outjo Primary School to the catwalks of prestigious fashion shows.

Born with an innate love for fashion, //Khaises reminisces about her childhood days, where dolls became her canvas and clothes her art. "Fashion is an art," she mused, reflecting on her earliest creative expressions. Despite initially setting her sights on a career in clinical psychology, fate had other plans. An elective module in fashion studies at the University of Namibia sparked a flame within her, igniting a newfound path towards her true calling.

Diversity pulses through //Khaises' veins, rooted deeply in the rich tapestry of Namibian culture. From the vibrant faces of Namibian children to the intricate beauty of Damara traditions, her heritage is a wellspring of inspiration. Proudly embracing her Damara roots, she seeks to honour her lineage through contemporary fashion, drawing from the timeless elegance of Damara Horokhoes.



Not without challenges

Yet, the path to becoming a fashion luminary is not without its challenges. As an emerging designer, //Khaises confronts the daunting task of breaking into the world of fashion. Yet, driven by hope and fuelled by innovation, she remains undeterred. Creative blocks may momentarily stall her progress, but with gratitude as her compass and prayer as her guide, she finds her way back to the wellspring of creativity.

In her journey, there have been moments of affirmation, like when she transformed artifacts from Germany into exquisite designs or when she showcased her creations at a Commonwealth fashion show, drawing inspiration from the textiles of Ghana. Each milestone reaffirms her belief in the transformative power of fashion as a cultural conduit.

For //Khaises, inspiration is omnipresent, found in the simplest of things and woven into the fabric of daily life. As a champion of sustainable fashion, she envisions garments that transcend fleeting trends, advocating for a greener, more conscientious industry.

Navigating the balance between artistic vision and client demands is a tightrope walk, yet she embraces the challenge with an open mind. While she values constructive criticism, she remains steadfast in her commitment to her creative ethos, unapologetically daring and authentic.

Her creative process is a meticulous dance of inspiration and execution, beginning with mood boards and culminating in the meticulous craftsmanship of her designs. With each stitch, she breathes life into her creations, infusing them with the vibrancy of Namibian spirit.

To aspiring designers, //Khaises offers a rallying cry: Persevere. In a burgeoning industry hungry for innovation, there is ample space for trailblazers to leave their mark. With unwavering determination, she seeks to redefine Namibian fashion on the global stage, one vibrant creation at a time.