Fashion

The Looks That Owned Durban July 2025

Published

11 months ago

9 July 2025

Durban city ( Durban July ) was made a city of great and rich South African fashion this July. It was like the Indian ocean’s warm waves met golden beaches where Zulu culture lives in every corner. The coastal playground transformed the month of July into South Africa’s ultimate fashion stage, where clothes didn’t just look beautiful but could actually speak culture.

This year’s theme “Marvels of Mzansi” demanded more than pretty outfits, it called for wearable storytelling. From the protea’s resilience to football’s unifying power, these looks celebrated South Africa in ways that would make any local nod in recognition. No fluff, just raw, authentic style that can make you proud to call this place home. Now, let’s get down to our very own handpicked rich and cultural looks that wrote history and made us take screenshots.

Sithelo Shozi – The Blue Crane’s Flight

Sithelo Shozi

Designer Nolanga Made created poetry in motion with this light blue masterpiece. The fitted bodice gave way to a skirt that seemed to breathe, layers of feather-like chiffon floating with each step, mimicking the Indwe’s graceful wings. Delicate silver beadwork caught the light like morning dew on feathers, while the icy-to-skyblue gradient mirrored crisp Highveld skies.

Mbali Nkosi – Namaqualand’s Bloom

Mbali Nkosi

This dress was a landscape. Layers of hand-dyed chiffon in sunrise hues (peach melting into golden yellow) swirled like desert winds. Craftsmen probably spent 300 hours stitching individual floral appliqués that seemed to grow organically from the fabric. The piece of the moment was the headpiece of real pressed Namaqualand daisies preserved in resin, nature’s art frozen in time.

Happy Simelane – Desert Rose Resilience

Happy Simelane

This grey-blue gown was a masterpiece in texture, featuring hand-embroidered floral motifs in silk thread, each petal shaded from dusty pink to deep maroon to mimic the desert’s changing light. The sculpted mermaid silhouette represented strength, while the delicate beading whispered of fragile beauty surviving against odds.

Khutso Theledi – Football Fever

Khutso Theledi

Local designer Thando Simelane reimagined sportswear as high fashion. The structured corset top mimicked referee stripes in matte and patent black leather, while the voluminous tulle skirt concealed a surprise, 200 miniature embroidered soccer balls along the hem. Gold chains representing trophies draped strategically, catching light with every confident stride. Khutso did this to pay tribute to rivalries in South Africa football, the Kazier Chief vs Orlando Pirates.

Mihlali Ndamase – Golden Legacy

Mihlali Ndamase

This look surely started conversations. The corset’s intricate beadwork replicated mine shaft patterns, with 24k gold leaf pressed into resin panels. The hammered metal mini skirt paid homage to miners’ tools, its uneven edges representing both struggle and refinement. Styled against a cave-like backdrop, it was social commentary in sequins.

Jessica Nkosi – Protea Power

Jessica Nkosi

The national flower came alive in this rose-gold creation. Laser-cut leather petals (over 1,200 individual pieces) were hand-sewn onto a corset base, each one heat-treated to curl naturally. The skirt’s metallic undersheen recalled the plant’s waxy resilience, while the dramatic train flowed like the Cape’s summer winds.

Thando Thabethe – Floral Queen

Thando Thabethe

The dress bodice’s 3D embroidery used seven shades of thread to create depth, while the skirt’s 18 layers of chiffon were individually dyed for perfect gradient. The showstopper? The headpiece with 200 hand-blown glass flowers on brass stems, each one movable to catch the light.

Sarah Langa – Township Royalty

Sarah Langa

This Skhothane tribute broke conventions. The jumpsuit’s gold chain motif was actually hand-painted, then distressed for authenticity. The wide belt replicated vintage soccer trophy designs, while the hat’s angle paid direct homage to 1980s Soweto street style. Every detail whispered: “We’ve always been fabulous.”

Anele Zondo – Woven Heritage

Anele Zondo

Traditional meets avant-garde in this architectural wonder. Over 400 meters of hand-dyed ilala palm rope were woven around a steel frame, creating a living sculpture that moved with her. The headpiece incorporated real ostrich feathers and copper beads, a nod to both rural craftsmanship and urban innovation.

Honour Zuma – Warrior’s Fire

Honour Zuma

This red leather gown was armor softened by its intricate embroidery, Zulu love letters stitched in gold thread along the sleeves. The sculpted shoulders represented strength, while the skirt’s 10,000 hand-sewn sequins mimicked embers rising from a fire. Her natural hair, styled into a majestic crown, completed this unapologetic declaration of identity, a warrior fighting injustice. A true Mzansi marvel.

Why This Matters Beyond Fashion

Durban July 2025 proved that South African clothing can:

– Preserve heritage techniques (like Zulu beadwork in Honour’s gown)

– Spark economic growth (all designers were local talents)

– Challenge stereotypes (Like Sarah’s upcycled luxury)

These dresses were cultural artifacts. When Mbali’s petals fluttered or Khutso’s soccer balls peeked out, they did what no textbook could: made South African pride tangible.

Real fashion doesn’t follow trends but starts its own movement. This year, the South African stars wore stories that will outlast any Instagram feed. Because in Mzansi, style isn’t about what you put on, but what you stand for. And if this Durban July proved anything, it’s that their voices, through cloth and thread, have never been louder.

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Fashion

Pamela Mtanga Just Showed Us How to Dress for Winter

Published

3 days ago

10 June 2026

Tega Ekeri

Pamela Mtanga - Instagram

When temperatures drop, winter dressing often falls into one of two extremes. Some people prioritise warmth and sacrifice style, while others focus on fashion and spend the season shivering. Pamela Mtanga’s latest look proves there is a smarter approach.

Her latest winter outfit shows how to create a modern cold-weather wardrobe without relying on bulky layers, oversized scarves or common winter styling choices.

Pamela Mtanga – Instagram

At first glance, the outfit appears simple. A cream high-neck jacket is paired with voluminous black trousers, pointed heels, leather gloves, oversized sunglasses and a compact statement handbag.

The jacket is the focal point of the outfit. Rather than opting for a traditional coat, Mtanga chose a structured piece with an exaggerated high collar that immediately draws attention. The raised neckline provides extra coverage while shaping the overall look and offering protection from winter weather.

The choice of cream is significant. Winter wardrobes are often dominated by charcoal, navy and black. Introducing a lighter neutral creates contrast without disrupting the season’s mood. The lighter shade softens the contrast with the darker pieces.

Pamela Mtanga – Instagram

The jacket’s relaxed shape is balanced by the wide-leg trousers. Wide-leg styles have become increasingly popular because they offer comfort without sacrificing elegance. The trousers maintain a tailored appearance while complementing the structured jacket.

The black leather gloves introduce texture and reinforce the winter theme. They connect the darker elements of the outfit. Meanwhile, the pointed heels provide definition beneath the wide-leg trousers.

The handbag also plays an important role. The compact zebra-patterned design breaks up the neutral palette and acts as a focal point. It introduces pattern into the neutral palette without overwhelming the rest of the look.

Pamela Mtanga – Instagram

The outfit reflects a wider preference for streamlined winter dressing. Instead of relying on excessive layering, many fashion-conscious dressers are focusing on strong outerwear, refined accessories and deliberate proportions. The focus is on selecting fewer, more deliberate pieces.

For those looking to update their winter wardrobe, the outfit offers practical inspiration. Start with a standout outer layer, pair it with tailored separates, and keep the colours cohesive. Accessories can then be used to introduce texture, contrast and visual interest.

Pamela Mtanga’s latest outfit combines structured outerwear, wide-leg tailoring and carefully selected accessories in a cohesive winter look. It demonstrates how considered styling choices can create a practical and contemporary approach to winter dressing.

Fashion

The Pop Culture Creators Everyone Is Talking About Right Now

Published

4 days ago

9 June 2026

Fadire Olusola

Photo: Instagram

From sold out music tours and global fashion campaigns to award-winning acting performances and influential digital platforms, a number of African creators have become cultural stars. Their work extends far beyond social media, as they are visible in entertainment and lifestyle. Here is a closer look at the personalities who dominate and influence popular culture today.

Uncle Waffles

Photo: Instagram

Uncle Waffles is a popular name in Amapiano music . In 2021, she received a co-sign from Drake. Uncle Waffles has performed at festivals in Africa, Europe, and the United States. Her projects include the Red Dragon and Asylum EPs with collaborations with several stars.

Siya Bunny

Photo: Instagram

Siya Bunny is a South African celebrity that documents luxury experiences and wellness journeys online. She has partnered with beauty and lifestyle brands on campaigns that target young. She has worked with local brands like 5th Avenue and connexion.

Oscar Mbo

Photo: Instagram

Oscar Mbongeni Ndlovu is a DJ entrepreneur, and broadcaster from Mpumalanga, South Africa. He is one of the country’s most respected producers with a music catalogue that includes projects such as For The Groovists and numerous singles. Oscar Mbo has hosted radio shows and established himself and appeared at major music festivals such as MTN Bushfire Festival in Eswatini and MOGA Festival in Portugal.

Moghelingz

Photo: Instagram

Moghelingz is a popular lifestyle and entertainment creator. He has a vibrant personality and humorous content on pop culture and fashion. He can create shareable content that younger audiences can relate with. Moghelingz has worked with brands like Fanta, Rexona and Luzooy..

Karabo Poppy

Photo: Instagram

Karabo Poppy Moletsane is a graphic designer and mural artist. Her talent as an artist has attracted collaborations with Nike, Coca Cola, and Apple Music. Her work promotes African identity and urban culture.

Pamela Mtanga

Photo: Instagram

Pamela Mtanga is a television presenter and media personality . She is known for her work on entertainment and lifestyle programmes. Over the years, Pamela has served as an ambassador of Standard Bank and Vodacom NXT LVL. She is the host of Massive Music on Channel 0.

Focalistic

Photo: Instagram

Lethabo Sebetso was raised in Pretoria, started out as a hip hop artist before moving into the Amapiano. After delivering his single Le Star, music fans were attracted to his craft. Focalistic has worked with Davido, Virgo Deep, Daliwonga, and Tyler ICU.

Nthabiseng Marie

Photo: Instagram

Nthabi is known as a reality television personality and digital creator. Her appearance on Big Brother Mzansi made her popular. Her social media platforms contain personal experiences and professional collaborations. As her audience continues to grow, Nthabi stands out as one of the emerging voices within South Africa’s digital entertainment scene.

Thuso Mbedu

Photo: Instagram

Thuso Mbedu was born in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu Natal . She was the first South African actor to lead an American television drama series with The Underground Railroad, directed by Barry Jenkins. Thuso has appeared in international productions including The Woman King alongside Viola Davis.

Fashion

Mihlali Ndamase Gives the Crop Top and Maxi Skirt Trend a Fresh Update

Published

5 days ago

8 June 2026

Tega Ekeri

Mihlali Ndamase - Instagram

Mihlali Ndamase has once again demonstrated her knack for putting together outfits that balance current trends with timeless wardrobe staples. In a recent look shared online, the content creator and beauty entrepreneur stepped out in a combination that reimagines the crop top and maxi skirt pairing through thoughtful styling and understated details.

The outfit centred on a fitted chocolate-brown halter crop top paired with a floor-length checked maxi skirt. While the top had a clean, fitted design, the skirt introduced volume through an oversized fold-over waist detail, creating contrast between the two pieces.

Mihlali Ndamase – Instagram

The combination reflects the continued popularity of maxi skirts, which have remained a prominent feature in women’s fashion in recent seasons. By pairing a fitted top with a full-length skirt, Ndamase highlighted the contrast between structure and volume, giving the outfit a balanced appearance.

Her accessories complemented the neutral tones of the look. A structured taupe handbag coordinated with the skirt’s muted shades, while gold jewellery provided subtle contrast. Oversized black-framed glasses accompanied the look, lending a contemporary touch to the overall styling.

Mihlali Ndamase – Instagram

The choice of colours was equally considered. Rich brown, beige and taupe tones worked together to create a cohesive look, allowing the outfit’s shapes and textures to stand out. The restrained use of colour also reinforced the understated feel of the look.

The oversized fold-over waist detail brought a different perspective to the crop top and maxi skirt pairing. Together with the neutral tones and restrained accessories, it gave a familiar combination a more structured and contemporary appearance.