Brenda Nxumalo celebrates her new store.

Brenda Nxumalo has always had an eye for style. Her mother, Agnes Mbanjwa, was a machinist who created beautiful lingerie and, as a child, Brenda soon learned what gorgeous clothing was all about.

Now her passion for fashion has become a reality with the establishment of her classy boutique Jempi, in Windermere Road.

Brenda, a B Com graduate, wife, and mother of two sons, owns a recruitment and transport company, and Jempi provides a creative outlet for her love of fashion.

“The shop is named after my mother-in-law Jempi Nxumalo, who loves fashion and who has taught me a lot in the 20 years I have known her,” says Brenda.

Jempi works in the shop and is always ready to give customers advice on what suits them.

Coffee or juice is at the ready too and Jempi is only too happy to chat about customers’ needs, whether they be shopping for an outfit for a wedding, racing event or high tea.

Brenda and Jempi Nxumalo

The boutique features a selection of South African designers like Michelle Ludek, Nanine Finewear, Sibu Msimang, Just Jade, Take Care Clothing, Anthea Mooney, and Melissa shoes. It also features top notch labels like Vivienne Westwood, Miss Selfridge and handbags by Dillon and Jada.

Brenda loves vintage clothing and snaps up stylish pieces at vintage stores in whichever city she is in.

“The vintage section of the store is very popular as customers see how good you can look in something old and classical,” she says.

Brenda believes nobody should be a slave to fashion but that women should dress according to what flatters and suits their figures, their personalities and what they feel comfortable in.

Accessories make an outfit, she says. “A plain dress can get a whole new look with a beautiful belt.”

*Jempi can be reached at 031 303 1570. See also the Facebook page Jempi Ladies Boutique.