“Local is Lekker” is a common South African phrase meaning the things close to home are often the best.

 I cannot stress enough how important it is for South Africans to support each other’s dreams and brands and to encourage others to do so as well, especially during this time. Not only does it improve our sense of community in a post lockdown world, but with each other’s support, we can build a better economy for South Africa.

Here's a list of some of the most inspiring and talented Black-owned businesses to support within our community.

 

Thebe Magugu

Why We Love Them

It always warms my heart when I come across a thriving, locally owned brand that has made it's way to the runways of New York and beyond. Thebe Magugu is a contemporary South African fashion brand primarily operating within the field of women’s ready to wear, while having a firm footing in accessories and small multidisciplinary projects. His clothing tells stories of heritage and his childhood. The are am homage to SA's history and his own. As you can imagine, every single piece is breathtaking.

Sindiso Khumalo

Why We Love Them

Sindiso is a mother first, and a sustainable fashion and textile designer second. She inspires while educating.  Sindiso Khumalo started her brand with focus on creating modern sustainable textiles with a strong emphasis on African storytelling. Her unique pieces are designed by hand and combine watercolour with collage.

 

MAXHOSA AFRICA

 

Why We Love Them

MAXHOSA is a South African luxury knitwear brand founded in 2012 by Laduma Ngxokolo. He set out to explore knitwear design solutions that would be suitable for Xhosa initiates. His initial vision was to create a modern Xhosa-inspired knitwear collection. As a person who has undergone the process, he felt that he had to develop premium knitwear that celebrates traditional Xhosa aesthetics.

 

Valoyi

 

Why We Love Them

Valoyi was founded as an homage to traditional African craftsmanship. Their mission is to redefine the African narrative because our history matters. 

 By giving traditional craftsmanship a new medium for their stories to be retold, new life is immediately breathed into them, bestowing upon them a deserving dignity and honour to live on forever.

"Our heritage belongs on the world stage, requires a seat at the table, and any false narrative of it's inferiority must no longer exist."  

Harmonie Mbunga - Founder

 

One Of Each

 

Why We Love Them

One of Each is owned by mother and daughter design duo, Tamburai and Pauline Chirume. One Of Each promotes a spirit of creative authenticity where modern fibers meet ethnic traditional prints from all over Africa. Vivid, colourful, diverse. A stunning representation of South Africa.

 

Galago

 

Why We Love Them

Founded by Adhiambo Mula-Lauwers, Galago is an ethics driven, fashion-forward brand, crafted and inspired around Africa, drawing on craft and traditional techniques to create contemporary products. They handcraft each shoe in their studio in JHB, sourcing materials from all over Africa.

 

African Renaissance Designs

 

 

Why We Love Them

African Renaissance Collection was founded in 2017. ARC embraces African aesthetics from the Nguni tribes which are Zulu, Xhosa, Ndebele and Swati.Their garments looks more like art pieces and are both ethical and sustainable in how they are produced. 

 

 

Luv Uthando Dolls

 

Why We Love Them

Founded by the talented Yolanda Y'awa  who is incredibly passionate about children of colour and wanted to create a product that will not only be fun but inspiring. “Growing up I never had a doll, though I secretly hoped for one. In those days, there were only white dolls available and that is what was classified as beauty. With not having a doll, the next best thing was an orange fluffy owl that became my friend, my vault and model, since I was overflowing with creativity from a tender age.”

 

Inkaturah

 

Why We Love Them

Inkaturah is a luxury, contemporary African brand handcrafting statement pieces.

Established by Architect Phathi Katurah Hlongwane, the designs are rooted in traditional African aesthetics, merged with Architectural geometries. Each piece narrates a different story which celebrates and expresses the character of the unique individuals who wear them.

 

 

 

Rich Mnisi 

 

Why We Love Them

Rich Mnisi is a South African based contemporary multi-disciplinary brand founded by Africa Fashion International Young Designer of the Year 2014, Rich Mnisi. With a global view the brand is young at heart and explores the treasures engraved within Africa and the world of modern culture and heritage to tell the unique stories of then, now and soon. All this packaged in extremist yet minimalist structures which take design and craftsmanship as the first and foremost motivation.

These are just a few of the local Black-Owned brands we love, but as you can imagine, South Africa is FULL of talent! We were only able to list of the many, many brands we love.

Now we'd like to hear from you!

Who are some of your favourite local Black-Owned designers / brands in South Africa? Comment below.