Fashion
From Trendy to Iconic- Labubu Dolls Are the New Cool in South Africa
In South Africa’s vibrant world of fashion and street culture, where individuality reigns supreme, a quirky little character is making a big entrance. With pointy ears, a toothy grin, and a personality full of mischief, Labubu is the unexpected style icon popping up in everything from boutique displays to influencer content in Cape Town and Joburg.
What Is Labubu?
Labubu isn’t your regular plush toy. Dreamed up by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, Labubu belongs to The Monsters universe—a creative collection of characters that blend fairy tale vibes with playful rebellion. With its elf-like face and wild expressions, Labubu has that perfect mix of cute and edgy.
Though first introduced in 2015, Labubu’s fame soared globally after Chinese brand Pop Mart launched blind-box versions in 2019. Each box is a surprise—some versions are themed, festive, or ultra-rare—making the hunt part of the fun and the hype.
The Pop Mart Phenomenon

Pop Mart, now worth billions, has created a new space where collectibles meet self-expression. At the heart of it? Labubu—adorably mischievous, kind-hearted (in its own chaotic way), and wildly expressive.
In South Africa, where bold personal style meets artistic flair, Labubu fits right in. From local fashion markets to designer studios and influencer reels, this pint-sized character is quickly becoming a style staple.
Why South Africans Are Falling for Labubu
Here’s why this cheeky little doll is making waves:
Creative Expression
Labubu resonates with South Africans who embrace art, fashion, and individuality. It’s more than a toy—it’s a statement.
Status Symbol
With rare versions already selling for thousands of rand online, Labubu is a collectible that says “I’ve got taste” and “I’ve got access.”
Insta-Friendly Aesthetic
Labubu’s oversized eyes and dramatic expressions make it the perfect accessory for your next Instagram post or TikTok drop. From Sandton to Stellenbosch, it’s getting camera-ready.
Influencer Buzz

With global stars like BLACKPINK’s Lisa and Rihanna showing theirs off, South African fans are quick to join the wave. Expect to see Labubu on more fashion-forward locals soon.
The New Way to Accessorize
Labubu isn’t just sitting on shelves—it’s riding shotgun in Ubers, clipped to handbags, and even styled to match outfits. Fashion lovers are coordinating their Labubu dolls with colours, moods, and seasonal looks. Think childhood charm with streetwear edge.
What’s Next?
With Pop Mart expanding globally and rumours of designer collabs on the way, the Labubu craze is just heating up in South Africa. From exclusive drops to local collector events, this trend is moving fast.
Labubu may be small, but its influence is major. Whether you’re into collectibles, fashion, or just love a bit of playful rebellion—Labubu is the accessory of the moment in Mzansi.
Fashion
Boity Thulo Owns the Gucci Primadona at the Zeitz MOCAA Gala
Boity Thulo attended the 2026 Zeitz MOCAA Gala in Cape Town wearing Gucci’s Primadona. The annual fundraiser, held during Cape Town Art Week, brings together artists, curators and patrons in support of the museum’s exhibitions and education programmes.
This year’s gala also paid tribute to the late curator Koyo Kouoh, recognising her contribution to the institution and to contemporary African art. In that context, Boity’s fashion choice was hard to miss for its clarity and confidence.

Boity Thulo – Instagram
She wore a Gucci Primadona look in the house’s signature monogram, styled as a flowing, floor-length cut with feather-trimmed cuffs and hem. The high neckline and relaxed drape created structure without restricting movement, while the neutral colour scheme kept the focus on shape and texture. She paired the look with pointed black heels, oversized sunglasses and a compact top-handle bag, keeping accessories controlled and deliberate.

Boity Thulo – Instagram
The Zeitz MOCAA Gala has grown into a multi-day programme that includes exhibition walkthroughs, collector gatherings and live performances, all aimed at raising funds for the museum’s curatorial and educational work. Hosted at the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa at the V&A Waterfront, the event remains one of Cape Town’s key cultural fixtures.

Boity Thulo – Instagram
Within that setting, Boity’s appearance aligned with the evening’s tone: formal, considered and grounded in contemporary African cultural life. The look balance luxury branding with control.
At a gala centred on art, philanthropy and institutional support, her choice of Gucci signalled global fashion awareness while remaining contextually appropriate for a South African cultural event.
Fashion
Faith Nketsi Shows the Lingerie Trend Isn’t Going Anywhere
South African media personality Faith Nketsi has sparked conversation around a lingerie-inspired outfit that reflects how intimate-style pieces are being styled in everyday fashion. The brown lace camisole top paired with tailored white trousers highlights how modern styling blends delicate fabric details with structured clothing. The outfit keeps styling simple, focusing on shape, fabric, and neat finishing.

Faith Nketsi – Instagram
Lingerie-inspired clothing has become more visible in streetwear, influencer styling, and runway presentations. The continued presence of lace bralettes, satin camisoles, and corset-style tops shows how pieces traditionally worn as inner layers are now being styled as outer fashion elements.
The brown lace top is worn with clean, structured trousers, creating a contrast between soft fabric detailing and sharp tailoring. The lace trim along the hem and neckline adds visual interest while keeping the overall appearance balanced. The combination pairs a lightweight, intimate-style top with more formal bottom wear.

Faith Nketsi – Instagram
Nketsi’s public fashion choices often attract discussion on social media, particularly because her wardrobe reflects current youth and influencer styling preferences in South Africa. The lingerie-inspired look fits within a wider preference for clothing that allows personal confidence to be expressed through close-fitting cuts and visible texture work.
Designers and stylists have increasingly mixed clothing categories, pairing elements usually associated with innerwear, evening wear, and casual dressing. The approach allows outfits to move easily between daytime and social settings. Nketsi’s styling follows this direction by presenting sensuality in a controlled and polished manner.

Faith Nketsi – Instagram
The outfit’s minimal styling keeps attention on fabric quality and cut rather than accessories or bold pattern work. The neutral colour combination supports a clean visual finish, while the lace detail provides subtle contrast. This type of styling reflects the current preference for straightforward, wearable fashion that still carries statement value.
Faith Nketsi’s appearance demonstrates that lingerie-inspired fashion remains visible in modern style choices. The look shows how intimate-style pieces can be styled for public wear without losing structure or everyday practicality.
Fashion
Bonang Matheba Makes a Statement in Pink Gucci at the 2026 Zeitz MOCCA Gala
Bonang Matheba attended the 2026 Zeitz MOCAA Gala in Cape Town. She arrived on the red carpet wearing a pink gown.
The annual gala, hosted by Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, celebrates contemporary African art. It brings together artists and celebrities. The event raised funds for the museum and included discussions about African culture preservation. This year’s edition attracted guests from across the continent and beyond.

Bonang Matheba:Instagram
For the event, she wore a long pink Gucci gown from the La Principessa line of the La Famiglia collection, paired with matching accessories. She shared the look on her official Instagram, including slides showing how she styled it.

Bonang Matheba’s outfit:Instagram
Read Also : Bonang Matheba Makes a Case for the Return of the Leather Jumpsuit
Fans praised looks and how she delivered. The Zeitz MOCAA Gala itself was filled with fine dining and cultural celebration. Guests explored exhibitions, engaged in conversations about the future of African art. The atmosphere was creative making it the perfect setting for fashion statements.

Bonang Matheba:Instagram
Bonang’s appearance also shows her deep relationship with luxury fashion houses. She has built a reputation for wearing high-end designers. Her presence at major cultural events shows her influence not in entertainment and fashion.
-
Fashion8 months agoLee Khuzwayo in a Long Black Dress, Done Right
-
Fashion8 months agoSinqobile Tusani Signature Love Affair with White Outfits
-
Fashion7 months agoSinqobile Tusani Elevates the Mini Skirt with Urban Cool
-
Fashion4 months agoThabee Happy Paints Johannesburg Pink in Chic Style
-
Fashion6 months agoSiphosethu Nkosi Lights up the Scene in Yellow
-
TV1 month agoBig Brother Mzansi Season 6 Welcomes Ashay Sewlall: From Footballer to Rising Star
-
Music4 months agoTyla just dropped her latest single ‘Chanel’
-
Fashion8 months agoSiyanda Bani Dazzles in Bold Polka Dot for Studio Shoot


