Staff Reporter
‘Neheng Phakoa, the creative force behind LADY SKY, has embarked on a journey to celebrate the art of being a woman through her luxury clothing brand. Founded in 2021, LADY SKY is more than just a fashion label; it’s a tribute to the classic beauty and enduring grace that defines true luxury.
In this exclusive interview, Phakoa takes us through her inspiring journey, from her humble beginnings as a student to her rise as a leading designer in Lesotho’s fashion scene. Discover the challenges, triumphs, and unwavering passion that drive her to create garments that are destined to become treasured pieces in every woman’s wardrobe.
Newsday: What inspired you to start a clothing company focused on celebrating the art of being a woman?
‘Neheng Phakoa: Being a woman has always felt like being a living work of art, and that deep appreciation for femininity ignited a passion in me to create clothing that complements and enhances that beauty. During my internship, I was recommended by one of my mentors to design for the Face of Lesotho Fashion Week, which gave my brand, LADY SKY, the boost it needed. We’ve since showcased at Bajinity Edition fashion shows, Sothokids Unscripted shows, and Lesotho Fashion Week.
Newsday: Could you share the journey of your company since its founding in 2021? What have been the key milestones?
‘Neheng Phakoa: I was in my third year at Limkokwing University Lesotho, trying to figure out what I was truly passionate about. I knew I wanted to establish LADY SKY before graduating, so I started to break into the market while still managing my schoolwork. I had two mentors, Mrs. Liname Malepa and Mrs. Sekhoahla Tjantji Limpho, both of whom were my lecturers. I approached them with the idea of LUXURY SLEEPWEAR, including sleeping eye masks, bonnets, and pillowcases, and they encouraged me to give it a try. Initially, it didn’t take off, so I paused to do more research. By 2022, I started receiving a few garment orders, and they turned out well. However, it was challenging because I didn’t have an overlocker machine, which slowed down production. I took on a junior position as an intern, but after three months, I quit because I needed a paying job. A month later, I found a job that allowed me to save up for the machines I needed to become independent. It took a lot of sacrifice, but in six months, I was able to achieve that goal.
Newsday: What distinguishes your brand from other female clothing companies in the market?
‘Neheng Phakoa: LADY SKY is all about Classic Luxury. Our garments are designed to be timeless, so you’ll love them for years, unlike fast fashion, which you might outgrow by the next season. We also prioritise quality over quantity. From the moment we select fabrics, we pour our hearts into every detail because we understand how critical it is to turn a piece of cloth into a garment that people will cherish.
Newsday: What are some of the challenges you face in striving towards your vision of becoming the most influential luxury group in fashion and lifestyle?
‘Neheng Phakoa: Not everyone appreciates the value of quality, and it’s not something that comes cheap. Our market is slowly warming up to the idea of tailored everyday wear, but it’s going to take time for that shift to fully take hold.
Newsday: How do you plan to expand or evolve your brand to achieve the ultimate ambition stated in your vision?
‘Neheng Phakoa: We’re committed to consistently working authentically towards our goals. We believe that if we stay true to our vision, our work will eventually reach the right market.
Newsday: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in the fashion industry?
‘Neheng Phakoa: Start right now with what you have, right where you are. There’s an audience out there waiting for you to take that first step.
Summary
- Being a woman has always felt like being a living work of art, and that deep appreciation for femininity ignited a passion in me to create clothing that complements and enhances that beauty.
- I took on a junior position as an intern, but after three months, I quit because I needed a paying job.
- A month later, I found a job that allowed me to save up for the machines I needed to become independent.
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