Maru: Spring/Summer 2021 Collection.

Maru is a Setswana word that directly translate to “clouds” in English, but in this context Maru is a Botswana clothing brand established by Sabine Matsheka in Gaborone. “Maru is inspired by life beneath the clouds, in the sun-baked Kalahari Desert, quenched by the wealth of the Okavango Delta.” This social and sustainable brand’s biggest objective is not only creating beautiful clothing, but is to also be conscious about their environment and to “institute changes where there’s flaws, including creating a brand that encourages social changes.”

“The points of intersection is Maru’s mission and includes encouraging localisation, growth of the black economy, digital engagement, welcoming tourism, women empowerment and of course sustainability and ethical-consumerism.”

We love a well thought-out, beautifully designed and consistent collection and if it’s environmental friendly, we are definitely sold. Maru’s Spring/Summer 2021 collection is nothing short of perfection. Inspired by Mosadi wa Maru, a woman of the clouds. The Maru woman is said to be a dreamer above everything, but still stays grounded. Whilst following the Mosadi wa Maru inspiration, the pieces in this collection envisaged every modern Motswana woman.

“Mosadi wa Maru – a woman of the Clouds, trusts in the strength of womanship. It’s depending on her might to build mine. Allowing me to dream while she keeps us steady in her grounding. Growing in my power while she renews hers. Interchanging our energies, transversing the planes, in a shared spotlight.”

Every piece in this collection has been ascribed to the beautiful names we’ve been given in Setswana, said Sabine. The collection ranges from knot bags, bucket hats, tunic and wrap dresses. This spring/summer collection consists of the Gofaone Knot Bag, Botho Wing Blouse, Ngwedi Wrap Skirt, Maru Sun Hat, Lesedi Fold Jacket, Lora A-Tunic, Motlalepula Split Tunic, Motlalepula Slack Pants and the Lesego Wrap Dress. When I first opened the press packet sent to me by Sabine, and going through it, the editorial shoot and the look and feel of the entire collection gave me Lulama Wolf and Keneilwe Mothoa energy and a hint of Ayanda Phola Gumede, but with a pair of clean kicks.

“The fabrics used to create this collection are all organic and have been carefully constructed by local craftspeople, in linen, rayon and cotton. These natural fabrics allow our bodies that carry garments, to breathe, and the earth to, too. They’re light and airy, with touch to structure in its lines. Each piece is made to be worn interchangeably with one another, plain or adorned.”

To shop any of these Maru spring/summer 2021 collection looks visit; www.marubw.com

BOTHO WING BLOUSE & NGWEDI WRAP SKIRT