Innovation helps youth-owned brand RE-L8 thrive in competitive fashion world

702's Gugs Mhlungu is joined by Bonang Kau, co-founder of RE-L8.

Rustenburg-based youth-owned clothing brand RE-L8 (pronounced RELATE) has gone from strength to strength since its launch in 2016.

The proudly South African label was founded by Kau twins, Bonang and Duduetsan, when they were still students.

Starting with just 6 printed caps initially made for a group of friends, they managed to scale the business into a mini factory as demand grew for their growing product range.

Gugs Mhlungu asks co-founder Bonang Kau about the inspiration for their distinctive multi-functional clothing items.

"What we realised is that cars are getting smarter, phones are getting smarter; so in this era of technology clothes must get smarter too - that's how we came up with the concept of doing something that is multi-functional for clothing."

Bonang Kau, Co-founder - RE-L8

This range includes a jacket that features a built-in side bag, allowing you to carry all your essentials without the hassle of a separate bag.

"We've also got pants that can turn into a jacket. But we don't only do multi-function clothing - you'll also find things like fur jackets and cargo pants."

Bonang Kau, Co-founder - RE-L8

One thing the team quickly realised is that they would have to also be multi-dimensional to grow their business, Kau says.

Their services now include embroidery, printing and manufacturing for companies and schools.

"We said, let's not just depend on the brand; let's take the resources we have and see how we can be more innovative and make more money from that."

Bonang Kau, Co-founder - RE-L8

"We engage with the customer to find out what it is they really want and the idea that they have for their brand. We also offer a little bit of advice for those that are new in the game and want to take a specific direction."

Bonang Kau, Co-founder - RE-L8

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