Namibian masterpiece for Miss Universe
The costume, inspired by the resilient oryx and the Namibian coat of arms, has a deep and meaningful significance for both the designer and the reigning Miss Namibia.
Namibian fashion designer Mwatile Kapolola is making waves in the fashion world as the creative mind behind the captivating national costume Miss Namibia 2023, Jameela Uiras, will wear at the 72nd Miss Universe pageant in San Salvador, El Salvador, on Saturday, 18 November.NMH caught up with Kapolola - who is also the founder of Exclusive Art Works and Wear - to get insight into this highly debated national costume.
Asked about the vision for the garment, he shared that he drew inspiration from Namibia’s national animal, the oryx, as well as the country’s coat of arms.
“It is something Jameela specifically wanted to focus on, citing that after losing her mother last year, she had to learn to be resilient and believe in herself more,” he said.
Kapolola added that the design not only showcases the country's rich culture and heritage but also serves as a symbol of strength and resilience.
For Kapolola, being chosen as the designer of the 2023 Miss Namibia national costume is a dream come true.
He expressed his gratitude, saying: "It's a big deal for me as I have not done it before, so it means a lot for Jameela and the entire Miss Namibia organisation to have trusted me with this task, especially when I did not have previous work to show for it".
Working closely with Uiras on this project was a unique experience for the designer. “It wasn't my first time working with Jameela, but it was my first time working on a costume with her and for her, so that made the experience a little different.”
Kapolola commended Uiras for her active involvement in the creative process, highlighting her honesty and willingness to provide direction.
The collaboration between the two was a harmonious one, with Kapolola's main objective being to ensure the beauty queen was happy with the result.
It took them two weeks of dedication and hard work to bring the costume to life, and the designer believes it was all worth it.