BY NELIWE NGUBANE
MALKERNS – Eswatini’s growing creative industry is once again proving that local talent can compete on the international stage after crochet designer and entrepreneur Seluliwe Mdluli, popularly known as Crochet by Selu, handcrafted a stunning crochet design worn by South African actress, model, influencer and creative activist Luyanda Zwane, whose latest role as Lindani in The Polygamist, currently streaming on Netflix, has captured audiences across the continent.
For Mdluli, the milestone is more than celebrity recognition. It is a powerful statement that handmade fashion from Eswatini is capable of crossing borders, opening new markets and creating sustainable livelihoods for local creatives.
Speaking to Eswatini Positive News, Mdluli revealed that Zwane personally contacted her through WhatsApp requesting two crochet vacation dresses.
“I actually took a while to realise it was really her because I wasn’t expecting an order from a South African celebrity. Once it sank in I was so excited, but I knew I had to remain professional. Seeing her wearing Crochet by Selu was such an emotional moment. It reminded me that my work is reaching people beyond Eswatini and it gave me even more confidence in my craft,” she said.
She described the achievement as one of the biggest milestones in her journey, saying it validates years of dedication and consistency.
“It shows that hard work and consistency really do pay off. Personally, it reminded me that the dreams I once thought were far away are becoming reality. For Crochet by Selu, it brings more visibility and credibility, but more importantly it proves that handmade crochet belongs on the same stage as any other form of fashion. I hope it also inspires other young creatives from Eswatini to believe that their talent can take them anywhere,” she added.
Mdluli said her signature style blends tradition with contemporary fashion, transforming crochet into luxury statement pieces that appeal to modern audiences.
“I would describe my style as bold, timeless and elegant. I love taking a traditional craft like crochet and transforming it into pieces that feel modern, luxurious and unique. My inspiration comes from nature, different cultures, high fashion and the personalities of the people I design for. I always want each piece to tell a story while making the person wearing it feel confident and beautiful,” she explained.
While the growing recognition is rewarding, she admitted that building a crochet fashion brand comes with challenges, particularly because many people underestimate the time, patience and craftsmanship invested in every handmade garment.
“Crochet is very time-consuming and many people don’t always understand the amount of work, skill and patience that goes into creating a handmade piece. However, seeing people proudly wear my designs, receiving support from customers both locally and internationally, and reaching milestones like dressing public figures remind me why I started,” she said.
Looking ahead, Mdluli said she is determined to elevate Eswatini’s fashion industry onto the global stage through bigger collections, international collaborations and innovative designs.
“My supporters can expect more innovative designs, bigger collections and pieces that continue to push the boundaries of crochet fashion. One of my biggest dreams is to see Crochet by Selu on international runways and dressing influential people around the world while proudly representing Eswatini through my work. I also want to continue growing the brand into a globally recognised fashion house known for creativity, quality and craftsmanship,” she said.
Her latest achievement not only celebrates personal success but also highlights the growing potential of Eswatini’s handmade fashion industry, demonstrating that locally crafted creativity can generate livelihoods, preserve craftsmanship and earn recognition on the world’s biggest stages.
(Courtesy Pic)
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