4 local designers we’re obsessed with

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The 2014 Africa Fashion International Young Designer of the Year is not afraid to push the boundaries of fashion by using clashing colours and minimalist structures in his South African-inspired designs. Rich’s 2021 collection, called Hiya Kaya 21, was a tribute to the rich heritage of the VaTsonga tribe. In early 2022, he partnered with Adidas for a heritage-inspired clothing line. He is a visionary and his career is sure to keep reaching new heights.

2. VERUSHKA PATHER
A former classical dancer who added fashion designer to her name, Verushka Pather’s designs are unique and represent individuality and diversity. The creator of Khanya Designs is proud of her Indian culture and South African heritage, apparent in her shweshwe-inspired ‘Indo–African’ garments. Verushka uses bold colours, elegant designs and fabrics that make a statement for the Khanya range, which includes everything from saris, sari blouses and jackets to wrap and ball-gown dresses. According to Verushka, her clothing is created for the everyday African Queen wanting to make the statement that she has arrived. We can’t wait to see more of her designs.

3. MZUKISI MBANE
Accountant turned fashion designer Mzukisi Mbane is the man behind the Imprint ZA brand. His eclectic Afro-futurist aesthetic has made him a name to remember in South Africa’s fashion industry. Mzukisi uses his fashion brand to celebrate shared African stories and experiences. He draws inspiration from his Xhosa identity, from Khayelitsha where he grew up, and his mother, who is a huge influence on his collections. According to Mzukisi, his love for prints come from a love of colour and the need to create a new African print narrative.

4. SINDISO KHUMALO
Sindiso has always had an eye for design. The sustainable-textile designer completed her architecture degree in South Africa before heading to London to study her master’s in design for textile futures. She impressively started her own label, also called Sindiso Khumalo, creating textiles by hand through collages and watercolours. Her artful and elegant collections draw inspiration from KwaZulu-Natal and her Zulu and Ndebele heritage. She has collaborated with brands like IKEA and Vodacom. Her work has also been presented at the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art in Washington, and the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art in Denmark.