Seni Ndlovu: The Creative Talent Behind ‘IDOT’ Designs

Mtubatuba-born Sbongiseni “Seni” Ndlovu is a talented fashion designer who has had a passion for fashion since 2017. Seni has grown from a self-taught designer to a recognized name in the industry. Seni began in Mtubatuba, where he learned to sew and cut fabric. He credits the Mdaywood family for inspiring him to turn his passion into a career.

After studying Clothing Production at uMfolozi College, Seni moved to Durban in 2020 to start his business. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he saw an opportunity to make a name for himself in the industry. He began creating denim face masks, that quickly gained popularity and shortly expanded his portfolio to include traditional wear, suits, and more.

So, what drives Seni’s creativity? “I love fashion because it’s always changing”, he enthuses. To stay inspired, he reflects on his journey, reminding himself of his humble beginnings and the importance of understanding the industry. “I always look back at the beginning and then remind myself of what I know, what I want, where I’m going, and why I’m here”.

Seni’s personal style is all about recognition, as reflected in his brand name, “IDOT”- the spot. “My style is all about recognition among others”, he explains. “People always want the wow factor, and I always want to be spot on with their vision”.

To aspiring fashion designers, Seni offers advice: “Dedication is part of your job. Know your story and keep the focus on the bigger picture. Learn to calculate big so you can plan big. Let small falls be your stepping stone, and always focus on what you want to achieve”.

In the face of criticism or negative feedback, Seni chooses to listen, learn, and improve. ‘Working with different people is easy since I now understand that the energy they must find me in must always be good’.

Seni’s journey is a testament to his hard work, creativity, and dedication. As he continues to make a name for himself in the fashion industry, we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this talented designer. Follow Seni’s work on social media @idotdesigns-studio and witness artistry firsthand.

                                                                                       By: Khetha Ndlovu