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FASHION INDUSTRY MOURNS TOP DESIGNER’S DEATH

By Ayanda Dlamini | 2024-04-16

FASHION lovers poured out their love at first sight stories of designs that the late Mbali Kunene-Shongwe of Monte Couture, designed for their most memorable days.

The top designer passed away in hospital on Sunday.

The news of her passing was confirmed by her husband Mandla Shongwe in statement that was shared on soacil media.

The statement read, “ it is with great sadness that the Shongwe and Kunene families wish to inform family, friends, colleagues, acquaintances and the fashion industry at large of the passing of our beloved Mbali Shongwe. Mbali passed away peacefully in hospital on Sunday 14th April 2024. May Good receive her soul in his glory. The family is deeply saddened by the loss of our dearest Mbali and requests time to process this great loss.” Social media was abuzz after Shongwe broke the news. Fashion gurus, socialites, and personalities poured their tributes as they described Mbali as one of the best designers Eswatini has ever had.

“My heartfelt condolences Shongwe. Very sad development. May you be comforted by God's perfect love during your time of loss,” read one of the comments on Mbali’s passing. Monet Couture by Mbali is one of the best and leading fashion brands in the country

The top designer has made nothing, but stunning garbs for a number of personalities in the country. She has made wedding dresses for a number of Emaswati.

Monte Couture by Mbali custom makes high quality garments for females with figure variations. Fabrics are manipulated to bring out texture and a unique detail for each garment. In an interview before she met her death, Mbali said she was inspired by the passion she had for designing and the headache of never finding a perfect fitting and stylish garment in retail outlets.

Monte Couture makes your garment for any special occasion, from wedding gowns to bridesmaids and cocktail dresses.

At the previous Standard Bank Luju Food and Lifestyle Festival, Monte Couture showcased exquisite pieces inspired by deep Siswati roots through the use of texture, colour and unique details to create new, high end, fashionable couture. After completing her O’level at St Mark’s High School, Mbali went on to study Tourism Management at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).

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