FASHION designer Felistus “Feli Nandi” Chipendo (pictured) has taken the fashion world by storm after bringing in a wide range of Ankara winter styles. Nandi, who is also a musician and actress, has come on board through her design label, Feli Nandi Apparels, approaching fashion from an arts perspective.

Famed for intrepid colours in African print and a love for refined details, Feli Nandi has introduced seasonal trench coats, hooded jackets, dresses, tailoring and casual wear.

“I recently released a new range of collections, Ankara hooded jackets for winter, which are for both males and females,” Feli Nandi told Standard Style.

“These are semi-winter apparels, meaning they can be worn in summer as well.”

The fashion designer, who celebrated her 31st birthday, last Thursday said the demand for the new winter apparel was overwhelming.

“I have also introduced hoodies and these are like shirt dresses. The response has been amazing!” she said.

“Feli Nandi Apparels caters for all. We are trying to define our Africaness through fashion.”

The fashion designer was working hard to spread her business, thanks to information and communication technologies.

“I have a showroom at Old Shell House along Nelson Mandela Avenue in Harare where people come and place their orders. They also get to see new designs,” Feli Nandi said.

“Feli Nandi Apparels has a huge presence on social media. We have managed to reach a good number of customers via social media platforms.”

The musician picked herself up and activated her career following her departure from Mhodzi Tribes, taking a solo path that has seen her releasing a number of music projects.

Nandi has dropped singles Women, Ndega Ndada, Ndibateiwo and

Mangoromera, including a cover video of Steve Makoni’s hit song

Zvachonyana.

She did a collaboration with urban groover Trevor Dongo titled

Mufudzi Wemombe and her own project a single titled Munhu Wangu.

Currently, Feli Nandi is riding high with the song titled Handidi Newe, a duet with Afro-fusion sensation Solution.