Some of South Africa’s biggest names have deviated from their professions to model a new collection from leading designer Thebe Magugu.
Magugu’s latest capsule collection explores lobola, a centuries-old marriage tradition practised across southern Africa. As part of the custom, the groom’s family present money, cows or both to the bride’s family as a gesture of his willingness to marry her.
The payment of lobola is a sign of the man’s commitment to take care of his wife and is seen as a symbolic act, rather than a purchase.
Illustrations of lobola ceremonies feature on Magugu’s new garments.
When it came to showcasing the collection, Magugu called upon high-profile figures from various sectors in South Africa, including Ama Qamata, an actress in Netflix’s Blood and Water, footballer Miguel Timm, veteran actor Dr John Kani and former public protector Prof Thuli Madonsela.
Magugu, who is based in Johannesburg, told British Vogue: “I’ve reached out to some of the most extraordinary individuals in my country, whom I’m fortunate enough to call my friends, to help bring this vision to life, and I’m deeply grateful for their involvement.”
Magugu’s lobola collection is the third installment of his “Heritage” collection, which aims to spotlight various aspects of South African culture.
The designer gained international recognition in 2019 when he won the prestigious Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy Prize (LVMH) prize. Since then, Magugu has presented at Paris and London Fashion Week and collaborated with the likes of Adidas and Dior.
