Jane Ndagire is a fashion designer who makes bespoke fashions for the corporate woman. She is dedicated to timeless aesthetics over fast fashion trends, with a touch of modern style. Jane takes pride in guaranteed quality finishes and durability, encouraging the consumer to invest in pieces that can be worn for years to come.
The catalyst for her entry into the fashion world was a personal experience. After graduating from university, Jane found herself struggling to find suitable attire for job interviews. This challenge sparked an entrepreneurial idea which led her to establish her own clothing line which she initially called “Being Jane.” This venture born out of necessity quickly evolved into a passion project majorly driven by a desire to provide stylish and empowering clothing for others.
After the death of her father, Jane’s mother who was a seamstress single handedly raised all her five children. Even though Jane went ahead to pursue education in community Psychology she always felt a drive to join the fashion industry inspired by her own mother.
Her journey is greatly inspired by her mother’s resilience and fueled by her own entrepreneurial spirit which is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and the enduring strength of the African spirit. “My family is my biggest support system especially my mother,” Jane emphasizes. “She inspired me to venture out into the creative industry.” Observing her mother’s dedication and skill from a young age instilled in Jane a profound appreciation for the art of sewing and a desire to follow in her footsteps. Her mother is now retired but she always knew she would become a fashion designer like her right from childhood.
While she pursued a bachelors in community psychology at undergraduate level, Jane’s creative inclinations remained strong. She actively participates in various workshops, internships and training programs to enhance her knowledge and skills in the fashion industry. Jane comes off as a self-proclaimed, devoted learner that embraces the philosophy that learning never ends a mindset that fuels her continuous growth and development.
She called her most recent clothing line “Stepping Out in Bold” a vibrant celebration of African textiles and the confident spirit they represent. Inspired by the bold prints and colors of African fabrics Jane’s collection embodies a sense of empowerment and cultural pride. “The story behind it was inspired by the bold prints and colors of African fabric that for me represents the confident African spirit,” Jane explains.
Jane has worked with artisans from various cultures within Uganda because she is a strong believer in collaboration which has enabled her foster a sense of unity and shared creativity. These collaborations have not only expanded her brand’s reach but have also provided valuable opportunities for cultural exchange and mutual growth. “It was a wonderful experience for me and the brand because our brands got such exposure, it felt like we were feeding off of each other’s energy,” she shares.
Jane is committed to ethical and sustainable practices in her work. she ensures prompt payment to her suppliers and workers and fosters a supportive work environment for them She also actively collaborates with artisans focused on ending stigmas by using her platform to promote social change. Jane is contributing to the economic empowerment of her community and fostering a culture of creativity and collaboration by employing local artisans and organizing workshops.
Jane is very optimistic as regards the growth and potential of the Ugandan art and fashion scene. “The future of art and fashion in Uganda is just setting off,” she exclaims. “I am excited about the fact that I get to be a part of it taking off onto the international scene.” She recognizes the unique blend of fun and color that characterizes Ugandan creativity and is eager to contribute to its global recognition. “Art and fashion in Uganda is fun and colorful. It’s just beginning,” she observes.
Jane maintains a strong belief in the uniqueness of artistic expression even with the raise of digital reproduction and online inspiration, “In my honest opinion I don’t believe one could replicate exactly what one has put out in fashion or art. It takes more than just copying what someone has done”, Jane states. There’s a mind and thought process behind everything on the Internet. So, for that, I don’t believe anyone can just reproduce exactly what’s on the Internet.” This perspective highlights her appreciation for the creative process and the individuality that informs every artistic endeavor.
