Kuben Narainsamy
KNS TAILORS
The Story Behind the Stitch
As a third-generation tailor, tailoring runs deep in my veins. My grandfather, Ellan Narainsamy, founded Narainsamy Tailors in 1960, building a reputation for discipline, integrity, and quality. My father, Mike Narainsamy, later established Mike’s Tailors, refining his skills in the UK and developing a passion for fine fabrics and design. I joined the family business at 14, learning invaluable lessons from both my grandfather and father—wisdom I’ll always treasure. In 2016, I founded KNS Tailors. My experience in the family business, participating in South African Fashion Week, and working with diverse clients set the foundation.
Our Brand’s Unique Identity
Fashion is the most personal form of expression, it’s how we introduce ourselves without saying a word. Trends come and go, but style is about confidence and individuality. We craft bespoke garments tailored to your unique shape and personality, using the finest fabrics and trims. When you wear a KNS suit, the confidence that shines through is truly powerful, connecting you with yourself and the world. The moment a client puts on a KNS suit and smiles in the mirror, the confidence that shines through is truly powerful.
Design Process and Inspiration
I always look to the past for inspiration, particularly the elegance of the 1950s. There was a refinement and attention to detail in that era that still resonates with me today. Whether it’s through vintage fashion, cultural traditions, or the personality of a client, I let the idea come naturally, blending timeless tailoring with personal expression. Staying inspired means staying honest. We take the long road to ensure every client gets the best, no corners cut.
Lessons Learned and Growth
In 2008, my father, brother, and I showcased our work in a fashion show for the first time. We were just three guys from Durban and were not sure what to expect. But to our surprise, the show was a hit, and we gained recognition for our work. That moment showed me that authenticity always stands out. You don’t have to fit into the fashion world—you just have to show up as yourself. My advice to aspiring designers? Be the best version of you. The world doesn’t need another copy.
Marvels of Mzansi – Durban July Interpretation
Mzansi is a celebration of our diversity. I see it as a vibrant fusion of tradition, culture, and colour—each person telling a story through what they wear. For me, it’s about keeping things polished and rooted in heritage. I work with quality fabrics that are both comfortable and luxurious. The designs are clean, striking, and thoughtful, allowing my clients to express their personality while looking refined and elegant.
Signature Style and Next Steps
Bespoke tailoring has stood the test of time, and we’re committed to preserving its authenticity. At KNS Tailors, we’re expanding our reach, slowly entering the Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Bloemfontein markets. The goal is simple: bring bespoke tailoring to the nation, one suit at a time. Growth for me isn’t about getting bigger, it’s about getting better. Better quality. Better service. Better experiences for our clients.
About the Designer
Kuben Narainsamy is the founder of KNS Tailors and a proud third-generation tailor from Durban. With decades of family legacy behind him and a deep love for refined craftsmanship, Kuben has become known for his dedication to quality and personalised design. His brand, KNS Tailors, continues to grow nationally, offering clients a chance to create garments that feel as good as they look.
Deven Hurku
Get Elevated
My Brand’s Unique Identity
Growing up in 1980s South Africa influenced my design aesthetic, characterised by bold, bright colours and eclectic patterns. My South African and Indian heritage inspires my collections, while family values and cultural traditions shape my attention to detail and craftsmanship. These elements combine to create designs that reflect my roots and heritage.
The Role of Fashion in Society
Fashion enables self-expression, cultural exchange, and empowerment. Get Elevated contributes to this conversation by celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity. Our brand prioritises community engagement and social responsibility, aiming to inspire confidence, individuality, and cultural appreciation.
Design Process and Inspiration
I draw inspiration from culture, nature, art, and everyday life. Recently, the corals of Seychelles’ seabed inspired my latest collection. I stay inspired through research, attending fashion events, and experimenting with new techniques. My passion for social justice also influences my designs and commitment to empowering women.
Marvels of Mzansi – Durban July Interpretation
For “Marvels of Mzansi,” I would incorporate South Africa’s natural wonders into bold prints and statement accessories. The fabrics would come alive with earthy tones and vibrant hues, paired with modern silhouettes that blend elegance and playfulness. Each design would be a testament to South Africa’s stunning beauty and rich diversity.
Signature Style and Next Steps
Get Elevated’s future involves expanding our collection, exploring sustainable materials, and entering new markets. Our focus will be on community-driven initiatives, socially responsible practises, and pioneering designs that celebrate individuality through fashion. Our goal is to make a lasting impact in the fashion industry while staying true to our values and heritage.
About the Designer
Deven Hurku, the founder of Get Elevated, is a ladieswear brand that celebrates African and Indian heritage. Her designs aim to empower women to feel confident and beautiful. With a boutique and international exposure, Get Elevated showcases stunning Afro-Indo fusion collections. She is driven by a passion for innovation, merging timeless traditions with contemporary elements to create truly unique and modern designs.
@devenhurkusa
Awakhiwe Kona
Suitability
My Brand’s Unique Identity
Growing up in a Seventh-day Adventist home has greatly influenced my upbringing, instilling in me a strong sense of identity as a Christian. Consequently, my mother would always ensure that my little sister and I were well-presented. On Saturday mornings, she would dress me in pants, shirt, and tie – an amalgamation that made me feel confident and poised. Upon entering university, I underwent a significant transformation in how I perceive, feel, and breathe the fashion world. As a result, my approach to fashion has evolved, and I am continually adapting to trends that are considered the norm, while also redefining the traditional gentleman’s image.
The Role of Fashion in Society
The role of fashion in society lies in its ability to reflect diverse cultural perspectives and styles, rooted in our heritage. Our forefathers have gifted us with an understanding of how tradition can inspire and inform design fundamentals, even in a diluted form. Within the fashion community, we see our brand as being mysterious and stylish, proclaiming luxury as you walk the ground of Earth.
Design Process and Inspiration
My inspiration is drawn by different entities that capture my prolonged attention, which I bestow upon myself. Crafting an ensemble for our collective various platform portfolios is where the process begins, and everything else turns to gold. I stay inspired by believing in something that I envision will be a valuable asset for future sales.
Marvels of Mzansi – Durban July Interpretation
Interpreting the Durban July theme correctly, I would draw inspiration from a Bridgeton-themed outfit. The textile fabric of choice would be Jacquard black fabric, featuring a black patch on the clavicle area with gold trimming. To add an extra touch, I would create gold straps to adorn the clavicle area and design a saddle-inspired element that symbolises a horse. A unique addition would be the incorporation of an Umqhele, commonly known as a headband, adding a distinctive flair to the overall design.
Signature Style and Next Steps
Our brand has received an overwhelming amount of love and acceptance from our discerning and prestigious clients. As a result, we plan to expand our global reach over the next five years, striving for greatness. The consistent referrals from our clients, coupled with our unique designs, demonstrate our success—people continually seek transformation, and we are where the magic happens.
About the Designer
Awakhiwe Kona, an Actuarial Specialist, is the visionary behind Suitability, a lifestyle brand founded in 2016. Suitability began as a bespoke suiting brand, specialising in custom-tailored suits. Over time, it has evolved into a group of subsidiaries with interests in fashion, male grooming, and hospitality. The brand’s name originates from his actuarial studies, specifically the concept of “Suitability of a Model” in Stochastic Modelling. This term resonated with the idea of tailored clothing designed to fit its purpose, inspiring the brand’s identity.