From Couture to Retail

Cobus Möller

For a fashion designer there comes a time when one has to consider rebranding in the interest of staying relevant and ahead of changing times or to attract a new clientele and enter new markets.

Namibian designer Cobus Möller was drawn into rebranding by an interest in men’s fashion that meant doing something different and taking on the world of retail – a far cry from the full-time business he ran as a designer of bridal and evening gowns.

I caught up with Cobus to find out what the adjustment to working in retail has been like for him and what the world of fashion has taught him throughout his career.

What have you been up to in the last few years? In early 2016 I became the Creative Managing Director of Pfohls Men’s Outfitters - an outfitter focussing on men’s clothing and men’s formal attire. It is fantastic to be able to live my passion through a wider range in the fashion industry.

How have you kept the light of your passion for fashion burning all these years? It is very easy! Fashion is my passion. It never feels like I am working. I always feel like I am creating something, the best always is delivering a customer’s order. The final expression of satisfaction on their face is what motivates me and drives me to better myself everyday. It’s priceless.

The final expression of satisfaction on their face is what motivates me and drives me to better myself everyday. It’s priceless.

How do you stay on top of fashion industry developments? For menswear I mostly follow trends from Mr Porter and keep an eye out on international social media influencers. I have followed the haute couture shows of the top designers around the world for many years. Based on that, together with understanding social economic progress, I make predictions on what will be the next trends in Namibia. Understanding fashion industry developments comes with many years of experience. I am very blessed to have been part of Namibia’s fashion Industry for more than a decade.

You went from running the Cobus Moller couture brand to working in retail – how was that transition, and what do you love about running Pfohls outfitters? I have always loved men’s fashion, so it was a very easy transition. Being a creative person, I get bored doing the same thing all the time. Retail gives you intensive problem solving events every day and that keeps me on my toes. I strive to give the best possible shopping experience to our customers. I believe that customer service is of utmost importance in retail. I am very honoured to be at the steering wheel of a 70 year old established retailer.

What are the highs and lows of running a fashion retailer, especially during these times? Currently, the biggest challenge is acquiring quality stock at affordable prices for the Namibian customer. However, we are lucky to have implemented a massive stock hold a few years ago. This has enabled us to still survive despite stock shortages worldwide. A bad as well as good part of running a retail company at the moment is trying to keep your head above water. It is not easy – but I love the challenge!

Finally, what are your hopes for the future of Namibian fashion? If everybody in Namibia stands together and keeps up the good fight against all the challenges we face, I believe Namibia will soon recover from economic depression. It will take a combined effort. I try doing the best I can everyday to keep positive and make a difference. One small deed can make a massive difference. One good thing about the current situation is that people start realising that they need to support local production. As a community we need to focus on that, so that we are less dependent on other countries. Many doors have opened for the local industries to expand, we just need to focus on developing our own nation.

I believe a trait of the Namibian spirit is a keen determination to become self-sustainable. We can do this!

While Cobus focuses mainly on menswear as the Creative Managing Director of Pfohls Men’s Outfitters, he still makes wedding dresses and couture gowns for private clients on request. To contact him for your special occasion, follow him on Instagram @cobus_moller_couture.

Cobus Möller

Rukee Kaakunga is a Windhoek-based Communications Specialist, Blogger and Freelance Fashion Writer. Contact her via email: rukeekaakunga@gmail.com and follow her on Twitter @rukeeveni and on Instagram @rukeekaakunga.

Photography: Haneli Mostert and Urban Lense Photography - Juné Geyser