Aisha De Beer is a South African based model-cum-fashion designer who was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Growing up Aisha had an interest in fashion and design. Attending high school at Townsend high school in the South-Eastern suburbs of Bulawayo; she got her breakthrough in the fashion industry as a model in 2002. Aisha then moved to South Africa in 2006 to pursue a better future and started working immediately. In 2012 she finally launched her clothing brand – Aiish Inspired Clothing.
“Some people live by certain words, transformation and empowerment. I live simply by inspiration. Luck was at my feet all the time and I just used each stone as a step-up the ladder and always remained close to who I was internally and remained humble and true”, Aisha said.
Besides modelling and designing she is the brainchild of Fashion Designers Expo (FDE) Zimbabwe, #FashionFightsCancer, an initiative that aim to raise funds for cancer patients in Bulawayo.
“FDE Zimbabwe has opened my mind on bigger and broader levels. I am using the cause to create awareness and spread hope and inspiration. It has made me feel like I am capable of doing so much more good things”, she explained.
To date she has been in the Edgars magazine, featured in Houston Drey’s music video, appeared on Television adverts for Homemark, Jet and Renault.
Grant Moyo (GM) caught up with Aisha De Beer (ADB) for a quick chit chat.
GM: What sparked your interest in fashion?
ADB: I used to watch my grandmother sew so I started being adventurous, making my own clothes from small pieces of fabric. Then I drew a lot of designs since I was very good in Art at school.
GM: When and where did you study fashion design?
ADB: It was all self-taught. I watched and learnt from my grandmother and mother. I used to put together off cuts and create skirts and tops as a teenager. While I was growing up I had it tough as my mother was a single parent and my brother a mentally challenged person. I grew up fast and when I started high school I learnt about the modelling and fashion industry amongst friends.
GM: When did you launch your fashion brand?
ADB: I launched my clothing brand – Aiish Inspired Clothing in 2012 in Bulawayo.
GM: How do you balance creativity with business?
ADB: Creativity is my business, I incorporate inspiration and motivation. It’s all part of my passion, so very enjoyable.
GM: What is the biggest lesson that you have learned since you started your fashion company?
ADB: The biggest lesson I would say is to be the best version of you. I noticed if you offer something unique, people will follow your trends naturally.
GM: Where do you find inspiration for your collection?
ADB: I am stuck on Pinterest and love Instagram. There I follow today’s trends and get inspired to offer fresh looks all the time for all sizes.
GM: What is your latest fashion design project?
ADB: I have taken a break on fashion projects as I am currently working on another FDE show, here in South Africa. Johannesburg market is more challenging and requires a well-planned strategy so I am focusing on building my career and my Fashion Designers Expo platform for Cancer.
GM: What should we expect from you?
ADB: Something different every year. I believe in transformation and want to use my talent and passion in the best possible way.
GM: What advice would you give to aspiring designers?
ADB: Push yourself! The moment you feel scared and off balance with a certain decision, that’s a good thing, it shows that you are growing within yourself.
GM: Would you ever consider modelling again?
ADB: I have started to work on a new portfolio so watch the space!
To date Aisha has been in Edgars magazine, featured in Houston Drey’s music video, appeared on Television adverts for multiple household names, watch that space we shall indeed!
