The Designer's Wardrobe is a new bi-weekly blog that provides insight into the style evolutions, fashion philosophies and business tips of the women behind the brand. Today, Collective Closets Co-Founder Laurinda Ndenzako will be leading a conversation about her experiences in fashion as a plus-sized woman.

Laurinda wears the Urafiki High Waisted pants in size 22 and the Cheza Cheza dress in size XXL ($232).

Hey friend, 

Hey friend,

So let's get a little acquainted- I’m Laurinda, one half of the sister duo that makes up Collective Closets. This feels a little nostalgic and takes me back to my blogging career that lasted all of three months – I wasn't born for the influencer life.

I want to take you on a journey through my personal style, sharing the fashion tips + tricks I've learnt as a designer, an on-the-go mum and a plus-sized woman. 

So where do I start?

Perhaps a quick introduction into who I am – I just turned 40 a few weeks ago, I’m a wife, creative director of our small business, mother of a two-and-a-half year old and a lover of all things that allow me to express myself through one of my most treasured forms of self expression – fashion!

I grew up in a household and community where my Mother and Aunties served looks for all events – be it grocery shopping runs, funerals, weddings or weekly parties. Fashion wasn't always MY first love – it took a while to find my stride when it came to personal style.

I grew up in a home with a mother that could whip up and serve a fashion moment with very little effort. Our mother Stella encouraged us to explore our creativity, she was a confident woman that had a larger-than-life personality and would never leave the house without her lips stained with her favourite lipstick- she's essentially the muse of the brand.  

Like many women, I've had such a dynamic and ever-evolving journey with my body and clothing. Figuring out my personal style and exploring my love for clothes has been – at times – liberating, vulnerable and empowering.

I’m excited for this next chapter in my life as I navigate a new era of personal style.

Laurinda xx