Story By Tapiwa Rubaya and Makhosini Mpofu: In Bulawayo’s city centre, tucked upstairs in George Square Mall opposite the Watering Hole, a small boutique is making a quiet but noticeable mark on the city’s fashion landscape. Signature Suits, co-founded by Ngwenya, Dube, and Mpofu, has been operating for just nine months, yet it has already drawn attention from both local shoppers and fashion followers beyond Zimbabwe’s borders.

The idea behind the store is straightforward: to make quality formalwear accessible to more men. “Every man deserves a suit,” Ngwenya says, reflecting the founders’ belief that elegance should not be reserved for a select few.

Signature Suits stocks a range of classic and modern styles, with prices that vary from budget-friendly to high-end. In addition to suits, the store sells shirts, shoes, ties, cufflinks, and other accessories, as well as a small collection of women’s tailored pieces. Seasonal promotions, such as a free watch and suit bag for graduates, aim to make special occasions more affordable.

Though the business is still young, it has already dressed a number of public figures, including models, musicians, and actors. The founders also work with local creatives through a brand ambassador programme, which they see as part of their effort to build community around style.

Ngwenya is realistic about the challenges of running a business in Zimbabwe’s economic climate. “Business is not easy, it’s not for the faint-hearted,” he says. “But we believe in resilience, and we believe our clients deserve the best.”

With plans to expand into new locations, Signature Suits is positioning itself as part of a growing movement of homegrown brands redefining menswear in Southern Africa, one well-cut jacket at a time.