Jerem Paul

Hello everybody. Today's designer spotlight will be with the very talented  Khulekani Msweli head designer and founder of Jerem Paul. He will be talking to us about his style, inspiration and his work. Not only is he a designer he is also an excellent craft's man, artist and interior designer.

My first reaction when I came across Jerem Paul was simply 'wow'. I was completely blown away by the quality of his work and his creativity . I love how holisitc his brand is. I see Jerem Paul as a blue print for what African fashion should bring to the table. Jerem Paul for me is the flagship for fashion in Swaziland. I see very big things for this brand and frankly I am inspired by Khulekani's work.

Now on to the good stuff. Let's have a word with Khulekani :

1. Please introduce yourself. Tell us about your brand and a little about yourself.

I was born in Vuvulane, Swaziland, in 1984. Spent most of my early years in Swaziland, lived and studied in England. To further enhance my knowledge in the arts, I traveled extensively to Paris, New York, Amsterdam, The Middle East and West Africa.

 JEREMPAUL is a multiple award winning, high end fashion and design brand directed by a Swazi father and son, Paul Msweli & Khulekani Msweli, since its establishment in 2010. It's focused on innovative high quality craftsmanship and driven by the love of contemporary art, resulting in avant-garde fashion and furniture.

Designer Khulekani Msweli designs objects that revive artisan's skills at the same time that they are challenged, to entice young generations to take part and pride in the value and meaning of craftwork.

A JEREMPAUL piece is a "one-made", to be passed on from one generation to another, telling our story and preserving our heritage.

2. What was the defining moment that encouraged you to start designing

There wasn't a specific defining moment but it was the fact that I was in a creative environment during my high school days and through my art skills, I felt it a natural process to delve into design as I would eventually become self employed. I have never really wanted to be an employee so the design world allows one to become self employed.

3. How do you incorporate your heritage into your designs?

First and foremost it's through the craftsmanship and then followed by creating a contemporary edge within what is already in my culture.

4. Please tell us where we can find your designs?

In Vuvulane, Swaziland.

5. Can you tell us about your personal style?

I would describe my style is modern eclectic.

6. Who are your fashion icons?

Not many, but that would include Rei Kawakubo, Rossana Orlandi & Lee McQueen

7. What advice would you give to someone who wants to start designing?

Have passion, study the field, then research, research, research!

8. Aside from your heritage what else inspires you when you are working on your collections?

The natural beauty of the world and the capabilities of humanity, through architecture, art, literature, music & spirituality.

9. Where do you see your brand in the future?

Within the homes and public spaces of discerning individuals who appreciate high quality craftsmanship and conceptual design/art.

10. Can you give us any tips on running your own brand?

Be in control of  the brand's image, work with a team that understands and believes in the brand's vision and mission, never be mediocre, remain consistent and relevant. There will be very dark days so you will need God.

Well thank you Khulekani for this amazing Designer spotlight. I hope someone has been inspired to develop and work on their talents. As Khulekani has said,research , research, research, be passionate about your work, understand your vision and be consistent. Very important advice that I will be taking myself. 

If you want to keep up to date with what Jerem Paul like his page on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/jerempaul.life 

Until Next time. Have a beautiful Friday and a happy weekend.

Love Tiwi