Liv & Light:

A Journey from Nature's Embrace to Ethical Fashion

By Zimkhita Kweza

In the heart of the South African Lowveld, where the untamed beauty of nature collides with the rhythm of life, Liv and Light emerged as a testament to the power of family, nature, and the desire to make a positive impact on the world. For sisters Gaby and Liv, growing up surrounded by the enchanting landscapes along the border of the Kruger National Park was not just an upbringing; it was a profound lesson in appreciating the simplicity and extraordinary beauty of the natural world.

Their journey into the world of sustainable fashion began with the influence of their artist mother, who instilled in them a deep appreciation for natural fibres and quality clothing that transcends fleeting trends. Witnessing the environmental toll of mass consumerism, especially within the fashion industry, the sisters were inspired to contribute to a more conscious and ethical narrative.

The Spark

The spark for Liv & Light ignited when Gaby, during her medical internship near Durban, confronted the heartbreaking stories of women trapped in abusive relationships due to a lack of resources. This pivotal moment led to the creation of Liv and Light, a brand with a mission to empower women and redefine fashion's role in our lives.

The brand's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its choice of linen, a fabric that encapsulates the timeless elegance and natural allure witnessed in their mother and grandmother's wardrobes. Starting with a few designs, each named after a patient whose story touched Gaby, Liv and Light began to weave a narrative of empowerment, resilience, and conscious consumerism.

THE SEWING CAFE: A CATALYST FOR EMPOWERMENT

Founded in 2012 by the dynamic duo of Cari and Athene, the Sewing Cafe has been a beacon of hope for the unemployed individuals in Masiphumelele and Ocean View, two communities in Cape Town facing economic challenges. The Sewing Cafe operates as a professional Cut, Make, and Trim (CMT) facility, providing services such as patternmaking and sampling. What sets them apart is their commitment to up-skilling individuals, particularly women, and offering them opportunities to create a sustainable livelihood.

Empowering Through Skill Development

One of the core aspects of the Sewing Cafe's mission is skill development. Liv & Light recognized the importance of this mission and entrusted the Sewing Cafe with the intricate and time-consuming task of garment production. By doing so, Liv & Light actively contributes to the up skilling of hundreds of individuals, providing them with valuable expertise in the sewing sector.

As the company expanded, the sisters faced the challenge of balancing their demanding day jobs with the growing demands of their business. However, staying true to their values of slow and conscious consumerism, they opted to outsource production to Cut, Make, Trim (CMT) facilities like Link Atelier and the Sewing Cafe. These facilities not only produce their garments but also teach and employ women from the local community, continuing the brand's commitment to empowerment.

The Sewing Cafe operates as more than just a manufacturing facility; it serves as a transformative force in the lives of its students. The hundreds of students who pass through its doors find not only employment opportunities but a pathway to empowerment and self-sufficiency. Many of these individuals, under the tutelage of the Sewing Cafe, have secured full or part-time positions within the cafe itself or elsewhere in the sewing sector. This not only contributes to their financial independence but also bolsters the local economy.

The Impact On Employment

The Sewing Cafe has made a tangible impact on the lives of its students, who are either employed full or part-time by the Sewing Cafe itself or find opportunities elsewhere in the sewing sector. The ripple effect is felt not only in individual lives but also in the broader community, as skilled individuals contribute to the growth of the local economy.

Entrepreneurship And Community Building

Beyond employment, the Sewing Cafe fosters entrepreneurship and community building. Graduates from the Sewing Cafe often go on to start their own businesses, creating a network of skilled entrepreneurs. The Sewing Cafe also extends its impact to nearby schools, offering an afternoon sewing club for learners. Additionally, it serves as a hub where aspiring entrepreneurs can receive support and guidance to kickstart their own ventures.

Creative Process

The creative process behind Liv and Light is a collaborative effort, combining Gaby's innate sense of style and trend prediction with Liv's expertise in online presence and branding. The sister’s source specific linen types and colours that align with their designs, emphasizing authenticity and attention to detail from conception to production.

Beyond the challenges, Liv & Light draws inspiration from the foundation laid down by their mother – the ability to appreciate the beauty in the small things, the play of light, and the joy found in ordinary moments. Their commitment to transparency has been a cornerstone of their journey, sharing personal struggles, health issues, and the realities of their day jobs with their customers.

In a world dominated by mass production and fast fashion, Liv & Light stands as a beacon of authenticity, reminding us that ethical and sustainable practices can coexist with style and innovation. The sisters have not only created a brand; they've crafted a movement that celebrates the beauty of conscious consumerism, empowering women, and embracing the natural wonders that surround us.