With Women’s Month behind us, we wanted to take a moment to celebrate the women who inspire us, not only through what they create, but also how they show up in the world.
Jess has curated a list of her favourite local brands, each one led by a woman she admires deeply. Whether it’s through colour, craftsmanship, energy, or ethos, these brands reflect the kind of creativity and care we at Dyad are always drawn to.
From ceramics and fashion to beauty, textiles, and more, here’s a look at some of the women shaping local design, and why Jess keeps coming back to them.
Han Ceramics
Love Hannah and her work. The organic shapes and colours really resonate with me. I have two candle holders and a daisy-shaped vase. I’ve also been in her ceramic classes and so enjoy working with a new material and being creative in a completely different way.
Lulasclan
Bonolo’s homeware pieces are just so beautiful! The colours and geometric shapes & patterns are the first thing that’s drawing me in. I don’t have one of her pieces yet, but I’m definitely going to get one of those cushion covers from her latest collection. I also admire her drive and focus as a businesswoman. Very inspiring!
Leila Atelier
Leila is a friend of mine and I really admire her sensitivity, dedication and thoughtfulness that shape everything she does. I love her subtle play of texture and colour, and as a fellow craftswoman, the handmade aspect is something that I cherish. I can’t wait to one day own one of her artworks.
Crystal Birch
Everyone needs at least one hat from Crystal Birch! You think you don’t look good in hats, but I'm pretty sure Crystal has at least one hat that convinces you differently.
The energy she brings to everything she does is intoxicating. Her love for colour is something that we both share, I think.
That’s Amori
Amori is responsible for my very good-looking nails and the makeup look on all our shoots. She has also become a friend and inspiration because of her ambition and optimism, and always looking for ways to improve or educate herself.
Kelly Red
Kelly creates hair magic! She is the only person I trust with my hair and 100% trust that she will be honest if she thinks something doesn’t suit me. She’s responsible for the pink colour and cute cut. She has also become my friend over the years and is a great sounding board as a fellow businesswoman. I admire her authenticity and honesty.
Selfi
I think Celeste and I share a similar sensibility for shape, form & colour. For that reason, her designs really resonate with me. Her styles suit my body shape and make me feel beautiful. I have several pieces of hers over the years, and I keep getting compliments every time I wear one of her jumpsuits.
Wass
I admire Nelle’s dedication to quality over quantity. I think her quality is unmatched in Cape Town. There’s so much thought and attention to detail that goes into any of her garments. Quiet luxury is a buzzword word but definitely something that keeps coming up when I think of Wass.
These are more than just brands; they’re creative practices, friendships, and mutual respect woven into everyday life.
Here’s to the women building, making, colouring outside the lines, and reminding us what thoughtful design really looks like.