Brightman Dlamini’s Rising Influence in Zimbabwean fashion landscape continues to evolve, and at the forefront of this creative surge is Tocar Narratives a brand built on storytelling, identity, and bold contemporary design.
The label’s founder, Brightman Dlamini, has been nominated in the Outstanding Male Fashion Designer category at the 24th edition National Arts Merit Awards, marking a significant milestone not only for the designer but for the brand’s journey from a vision to a nationally recognised force.
For many in the industry, the nomination signals more than personal achievement. It represents the growing legitimacy of fashion as a powerful cultural expression within Zimbabwe’s creative sector one capable of standing shoulder to shoulder with music, film, theatre, and visual arts.
At the heart of this recognition is Tocar Narratives itself a label that has steadily distinguished itself through garments that do more than clothe the body. Each collection is crafted as a visual narrative, weaving together elements of African heritage, urban influence, and modern tailoring to produce pieces that feel both rooted and forward looking.
Unlike fast fashion aesthetics that dominate global trends, Tocar Narratives has carved a lane defined by intention. The brand’s work often explores themes of self definition, resilience, and pride in African identity messages that resonate strongly with a generation seeking authenticity.
In an exclusive interview on the nomination, Dlamini described the moment as deeply emotional and reflective of years of unseen effort.
“This nomination feels like a quiet confirmation that the journey has meaning. Tocar Narratives was born from a desire to tell stories that we don’t always see represented stories of ambition, struggle, heritage, and becoming,”he said.
He emphasised that the recognition belongs to a wider circle beyond himself.
“Behind every garment is a team, a community, and people who believed in the vision even when it was just sketches and ideas. This is for everyone who has supported the brand from day one,”said Dhlamini.
Dlamini’s path has not been without challenges. Building a fashion label in Zimbabwe often requires navigating limited resources, production constraints, and a market still developing structured support for designers.
Yet these obstacles have shaped the brand’s philosophy to create pieces that are durable in meaning as much as in construction.
Industry observers note that Tocar Narratives has gained attention not through spectacle alone but through consistency. From runway appearances to custom pieces worn at major social events, the brand has steadily built a reputation for refined silhouettes, thoughtful detailing, and a distinct signature style that blends minimalism with cultural depth.
According to Dlamini, fashion for him is inseparable from storytelling.
“Clothing is the first language people speak before they say a word. When someone wears Tocar Narratives, they’re not just wearing fabric they’re wearing confidence, history, and intention”,he said .
The NAMA nomination arrives at a time when Zimbabwean fashion is increasingly visible both regionally and online, with designers using digital platforms to reach global audiences. For emerging creatives, recognition at this level serves as both validation and inspiration, proving that local innovation can command national attention.
Dlamini hopes the moment will encourage young designers who may doubt the viability of pursuing fashion professionally.
“I want young creatives to understand that their environment does not limit their imagination. You can start small, learn continuously, and still build something that matters,” informed Tocar.
