African Wear to the World

African traditional wear has been a symbol of identity and pride for as long as its existence. In the present day, it is still used to showcase people’s core integrity and is incorporated in modern fashion as well as high-end global runways. African designers draw from African black cultural experiences to develop unique designs that have seen them solidify their talents on the world stage.

Thebe Magugu and Rich Mnisi are the moment. These two powerhouses have been making waves in the fashion industry recently. Respectively, their work can be seen previously worn by the world’s biggest superstars, such as Rihanna in the Thebe Magugu Dress and Beyonce in Rich Mnisi. Both having collaborated with clothing giant Adidas, what is also common for these extraordinary artists is their love and appreciation for their cultures and the constant need to push boundaries while staying authentic to themselves. Their designers are rooted in their experiences as children of the African soil, born, bread, and basking in brilliance.

This is true for Mpho Shabalala. Currently based in Makhanda in Eastern Cape, South Africa, his brand, Your Style, is a product of his great love and respect for the beauty and potential of African wear. Mpho describes himself as creative, with love for music and art and an analytic mind. His tingling need to create, and his love for culture was put to great use in 2020 when he had a unique vision for his matric dance outfit. In collaboration with his designer and tailor aunt, they developed a stunner concept that incorporated his Swati culture, the tailoring and fit of traditional male Nigerian clothing, and the simplicity of the Indian Bandhgala evening suit.

He repeats the words “Run. Rebel. Escape.”, the brands slogan, which is embodied in every design he creates. Your Style is about breaking away from Western boundaries and aims to take back indigenous identity, style and culture and integrate it into the modern world.

The world of fashion is forever evolving, and right now, Africans seem to have it right at the center of their palms. Taking over the world fabric by fabric, I cannot wait to see the vibrance and pride restored in our previously scarred continent.