Reflecting on the fashion sector in South Africa , it has been a successful year. Some of Mzanzi’s favourite and well-known items have undergone huge improvement and that has changed the way we perceive them. We also witnessed this year’s collaborations that we never expected. It is only appropriate that we recognise the individuals who contributed to the success of our nation when it is eventually time to do so.
- Drip Footwear x FILA.
Drip Footwear CEO, Lekau Sehoana has announced a collaboration with the international clothing and footwear company FILA. He said that the collaboration’s main goal is to provide the local scene an edge from abroad.
- Thebe Magugu x Dior
The Dior x Thebe Magugu collaboration incorporates both the art of charitable giving and fashion. The cooperation between Dior and Thebe aims to collect money for Charlize Theron, a South African-born actress who runs an awareness initiative that funds South African children in receiving decent education and healthcare. Along with the DiorCamp boots and a silk scarf, the collection includes an oversized t-shirt decorated with the symbol of Magugu’s sisterhood, a bucket hat, a tote bag and the Dior oblique pattern. As people learn about the message and goal of this collection, which is generating headlines as they become more interested.
- Rich Mnisi x Adidas
Rich Mnisi, a South African fashion designer has teamed up with the global streetwear and sports brand adidas to create a brand-new collection that draws inspiration from the region’s history. A variety of his collection is fusing together style, color, and functionality. Each item can be worn individually or as a set to make a statement.
- Nao Serati x Reebok
Reebok collaborates with Nao Serati in celebration of South African Pride month. Designer Neo Mofammere established Nao Serati in 2014 with the goal of developing clothing that explores the boundaries of gender, art, and sexuality while remaining loyal to its South African roots. Serati’s creations frequently feature enormous silhouettes made of lycra and embellished with colourful motifs and paints.
- Bonang Matheba x Steve Madden
Steve Madden has launched its first-ever African collaboration with South African sensation Bonang Matheba. She will advertise the Steve Madden Holiday Select Collection and this partnership demonstrates Steve Madden’s ability to establish trends once again as part of the brand’s build-up to commemorate 10 years in Africa.
Six shoe types and two handbag designs make up Bonang’s holiday collection, which in the opinion of the fashion star, perfectly captures the joyous spirit of a South African summer.
- Shelflife x Air Jordan 2
The Air Jordan2 has got people talking and had companies calling to inquire about working with the company. Shelflife took the design for the Jordan 2 and made it their own with some alterations. Bright orange was chosen as the brand colour because it is associated with Shelflife. Each and every member of their crew has left their signature on the sole.
The plate lizard, which is indigenous to the South African region, was substituted for the iguana print that appeared on the original Jordan 2. The footwear contains strong, significant components that tell a South African story.
It has been very interesting to see local brands taking up space internationally, who knows what snowballing effect this could have for other brands in the country. We could see smaller brands filled with talent catapulted into the main stream and hopefully these collaborations are just beginning.
