Elma Park fashion designer working with SA TV
“Ultimately, I think my interest in sewing and fashion is something that’s in my blood.”
Over the years, Elma Park-based fashion designer Nidia Harris has made several achievements, the most recent being the opportunity to work with SA television shows.
Nidia has worked in partnership with a well-known dance competition show, The Bachelor SA and is in talks to partner with Droom Troue later this year.
Other projects she has worked on include creating dresses for musician Anna Wolf and the dress of Adele Koolen for the Mrs SA charity ball.
Growing up in Portugal, Nidia discovered a passion for fashion at an early age while spending time with her grandmother.
“Where I grew up the women would usually come together and make various garments, so I grew up around the chalk designs and signing of the groups.”
Later in life, Nidia’s father bought her a Singer sewing machine, which they used to make her matric farewell dress.
“Ultimately, I think my interest in sewing and fashion is something that’s in my blood.”
After graduating, Nidia was accepted to study both medicine and fashion design.
“I asked my parents which they thought would be better for my future, but they reminded me that it was my decision, so I chose fashion design.
“Looking back, I think I would’ve still ended up in fashion design even if I had chosen medicine.”
Working in the industry for approximately 20 years, Nidia worked primarily in the retail sector, but branched out as the sector started struggling.
She said what she enjoys most about working with individuals is the freedom she has to express herself creatively and meeting the client’s expectations.
“Although it is work, fashion design is my playground, I do what I love.
“Some of the best moments are when parents or fathers come in for their daughter’s dress fitting and seeing their reaction and their jaws drop as their daughter enter the room in the dress.”
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