NZURI Atelier is Osei-Duro's first distributor on the continent! We are thrilled to be represented in Africa, and couldn't be happier that it's with old friends. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, NZURI Atelier is new on the African Fashion scene, but partners Cita and Lila bring many seasons of sales experience to the project. Osei-Duro is now at the Mon Ame concept store inside the WORK SHOP NEW TOWN space in Johannesburg, as well as others stores across South Africa including Merchants on Long and Just Cruisin. NZURI Atelier is involved with Fashion Revolution SA, a chapter of the ethical textile movement that is growing quickly, and is focused on promoting African brands within Africa. Below are the two partners' thoughts on life and work.
What do you do? How did you get started?
LILA: A little bit of this and a lot of that … besides working with Cita on establishing Osei-Duro in South Africa, I am a mom to two amazing boys, work on ad hoc interior design projects, and help develop restaurant concepts with my husband.
What is your relationship to Osei-Duro?
CITA: During my high school years I moved from South Africa to Vancouver, Canada... where I met Maryanne and she became a close and dear friend to me. One year later Molly joined our class and the rest is history!
I have always loved Osei-Duro and have followed them over the years with the ultimate goal of bringing the clothing line to South Africa.
LILA: Cita introduced me to Osei-Duro over some cocktails one evening. I fell in love with the clothing and the brand ethos and decided to partner with Cita to bring Osei-Duro to SA.
What’s a favorite Osei-Duro piece in your wardrobe and why?
CITA: The Linter Dress in Black & White Parrallel.
LILA: Deni Raglan in Dulse
Is there a memorable occasion or story where you’ve worn our clothing?
LILA: I wore a pair of the Black & White Vapos trousers to the launch of Mon Ame, our first SA boutique stockist, at The Work Shop New Town last year. The trousers are such a great fit and they got heaps of compliments.
How do you style your Osei-Duro pieces?
CITA: Vapos Trousers in Marine Stripe... super cozy and casual... my favorite sneakers and a neutral tone sweater.
LILA: My Osei-Duro scarf in Narcissus is the perfect color accessory to my many black outfits.
What do you love most about your work?
LILA: I love the variety and flexibility, every day is different.
CITA: Loving the opportunity to work with great people.
What advice do you have to offer someone who is just starting out?
CITA: Just Keep At It. Self-discipline and dedication to your goal might take longer than you want but dont stress out. Enjoy the journey!
LILA: Go out there and meet the people that are in your industry, you can learn a lot from them and even establish some great friendships.
How does the city you live in influence your creativity?
CITA: Living in Joburg is very fast paced and so extreme in all aspects of life, so its important to find the beauty and stillness within yourself on a continual basis. My creativity is influenced by the indigenous plant and bird life all around us, architecture in the city, endless big blue skies during winter and the summer rains and lightening.
LILA: The people of Joburg inspire me.
Is there any music you’re loving right now?
CITA: SG Lewis, James McMorrow, Nina Simone, Dustin Tebutt, Lhasa and Patrick Watson
LILA: Angus & Julia Stone, Duke Dumont, Ellie Goulding, Matthew Mole, Bishop Briggs
You’re hosting the dinner party of your dreams. Who is invited (anyone, dead or alive) and what’s for dinner?
CITA: Frida Khalo, William Blake, Kurt Cobain & Jared Leto - Mexican food!!
LILA: My brother, Prince, Patsy & Eddy, Karl Lagerfeld – we’re having Indian food and beers.