Bulawayo witnessed a fashion first this July as celebrated designer Thembani Mubochwa transformed the private residence of the Sibanda family into a fully functioning bespoke fashion studio.

The collaboration with the owners of Epic Restaurant marked the first time an international fashion house has created garments from inside a client’s home in the City of Kings and Queens.

For several days, the Afro Jumbo team turned living spaces into fitting rooms and design studios, working closely with the family to create garments tailored not only to their measurements but also to their lifestyle and personality.

“We are used to this way of working,” Mubochwa told My Afrika Magazine. “I’m grateful to the Sibanda family for becoming the first to open their home to us and trust our process.”

The immersive approach allowed the designers to understand the family’s daily lives, ensuring each piece reflected their character as well as their style.

For Mrs. Sibanda, the experience was unlike anything she had encountered.

“This is the first time I’ve had a designer create tailor-made garments in the comfort of my own home,” she said. “It was exciting to watch the designs come to life right before my eyes.”

The collaboration produced 11 bespoke garments crafted from premium South African fabrics. Mr. Sibanda commissioned four African-inspired suits, while Mrs. Sibanda received six custom designs celebrating contemporary African elegance. An additional bespoke suit was created for a member of the extended family.

Mr. Sibanda said he deliberately gave Mubochwa complete creative freedom, trusting his vision throughout the process.

“This is the first collaboration of its kind in Bulawayo, and it’s an experience I would gladly do again,” he said.

Founded in 2012, Afro Jumbo has built its reputation by bringing couture directly to clients, dressing prominent figures including businessman Philip Chiyangwa, musician Jah Prayzah and Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, as well as South African personalities including the late Sfiso Ncwane.

The Bulawayo collaboration, however, stands apart for its intimate setting. More than a fashion project, it showcased a new approach to African luxury—one built on trust, craftsmanship and personalised design.

With the Sibanda family already planning future collaborations, the project has set a new benchmark for bespoke fashion in Zimbabwe.