
Designer Shamyra Moodley describes herself as a "hybrid" of Irish, Indian and South African descent. In this photo, she uses her personal style to help depict her heritage.

Moodley, shown here surrounded by used fabrics, grew up in a household in South Africa's Eastern Cape where living sustainably by reusing items was the norm. Today, her brand relies heavily on repurposing old and already existing material.

As part of the African Fashion International (AFI) "Fastrack" program, Moodley created this power suit from a vintage sari she inherited from her Indian grandmother.

In celebration of her various cultural influences, this look features vibrant multi-functional pieces.

Moodley took an unusual path to fashion, starting her career as an accountant. Her formal introduction to the world of custom-made garments came two years ago when she crafted this skirt out of sackcloth and a bodice from an old breastfeeding bra -- and wore it to a fashion show.

Moodley pictured in one of the pieces from her second collection, "Sugar in the blood." The full-circle skirt was made from donated fabrics, and the flowers are handwoven.

Her "Sugar in the blood" collection was inspired by past leaders like South Africa's Nelson Mandela, who -- despite born in the toughest of conditions -- managed to rise to prominence. Moodley says it started with her spotting a piece of tired-looking hessian and converting it into a fabulous skirt.

Moodley designed this coat to be multi-functional. It converts to a dress, separates into a skirt and jacket, and also features removable sleeves.

Moodley says this mini skirt was constructed from "high quality, ethically sourced, traditional school uniform fabric," and is fully reversible to convert into a top.