Somizi Mhlongo is beaming with pride after showcasing his fashion brand, Sompire Kids, at the prestigious New York Fashion Week. The media personality debuted his brand at The Leman Ballroom on February 8 during the EPN Fashion Week, an event that features both local and international designers.
Reflecting on the experience, Somizi expressed his gratitude on social media, writing, “What an honour. I’m beyond humbled and grateful for this opportunity. I thank all the models who trusted my brand on such a huge platform.” His Sompire Kids collection, which focuses on stylish clothing for both children and adults, made its mark on one of the fashion world’s biggest stages.
Somizi’s passion for fashion is not just a recent development. Earlier in 2024, he enrolled at the prestigious Villioti Fashion Institute to study fashion design, aiming to become a qualified designer. “I am proud of myself for enrolling and studying fashion design and I look at myself now. I cannot believe I attended full-time since January until now. The improvement I am experiencing is exciting,” he shared with the Sunday Times.
Throughout his career, Somizi has been largely self-taught, having mastered cooking, presenting, singing, dancing, acting, producing, and directing. But when it came to fashion, he knew it was time to learn formally. “In everything I have done I’ve been self-taught. But fashion was that thing,” he admitted.
Somizi launched Sompire Kids in 2023, offering a range of trendy pants, shirts, and tracksuits. However, the early stages of his business were challenging, and he almost gave up. “I was not making any profit. I only started making a profit in October, but that’s the name of the business. In the beginning, you are tested on how much you want it,” he recalled. He even had to scale down and take a more hands-on approach. “I’m in a much better space now,” he added, showing his resilience.
As he continues his fashion journey, Somizi draws inspiration from big names in the industry, like Pharell Williams. He’s already begun sketching designs for his first runway show, which he plans to showcase in September. “I’ve always been interested in fashion, but I didn’t want it to be a fly-by-night. I’m taking this business seriously,” Somizi explained.
His commitment to fashion is evident in his studies and professional approach. “I know what the benefits will be. Already, I speak the same language as my supplier, manufacturer, and garment constructor,” he shared, looking forward to breaking into high-end fashion spaces. With his creativity and dedication, Somizi is set for a bright future in fashion.
