AFRICAN DESIGNERS SHINE AT GLOBAL CITIZEN FESTIVAL

On 2 December 2018, South Africa had one of its biggest concerts ever! The Global Citizen Festival was held at the FNB stadium in Johannesburg, with the aim to fulfil Nelson Mandela’s vision of ending extreme poverty. 

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The most talented artists from all around the world, influencers and thousands of fans swarmed the stadium on Sunday to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s 100 years centenary, and raise funds to better the lives of Africans in areas such as healthcare, nutrition, water and sanitation, education and gender equality and to be part of this ‘once in a lifetime event’.

With international A-list celebrities such as Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey, Naomi Campbell coming to our shores - no doubt fashion statements were going to be made.

Let’s take a look at the fashion highlights from the star-studded event.

Beyoncé closed off her performances with this emerald regal dress which was designed by African designers, Enhle Mbali, Manual Ross Apparel and Lesotho designers Quiterria & George. This was a big fashion statement not only for Beyoncé, but for all African designers.

Sho Madjozi is always consistent with her signature Shibelani skirts, and at the festival, she remained true to her style and strong Xitsonga roots. Her outfit was designed by ‘Onder die Invloed’ in collaboration with her mom, aunt and grandmother.

Usher gave an African inspired performance alongside DJ Black Coffee, channelling Zulu culture, with a Zulu headpiece paired with a white suit.

Nomzamo Mbatha and Nandi Madida are no strangers to pulling off memorable looks. They didn’t disappoint, keeping in line with the ‘proudly South African’ sentiment – they looked stunning on stage!

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Incredibly proud of big sis @naomi for hosting and producing @glblctzn. The world converged on Africa’s door and committed to making the world a better place in the name of Tata Mandela. Thank you for always leaving the door open for African creatives to elevate. High and higher. Forward we go!

A post shared by Trevor (@trevor_stuurman) on Dec 2, 2018 at 11:49pm PST

Queen of the catwalk, Naomi Campbell also kept to the African theme. She donned a casual African inspired outfit by local designer, Marianne Fassler, before the show.

Gert Johan Coetzee had the incredible honour of dressing Oprah Winfrey at the festival. She looked absolutely fabulous in this hand-beaded silk Kaftan.

This was truly an unforgettable event for fashion in Africa! Who was your favourite act of the night?