Acclaimed designer Thebe Magugu has announced the return of his customisable Heirloom Project, where you can customise a shirt, pants, and tote bag with images of a loved one.
Showcasing this unique project was the internationally acclaimed actress Lupita Nyong'o, who graced Thebe Magugu House, where she arrived wearing the Thebe Magugu Heirloom blouse with emblazoned images of her grandmother on it, and took snaps alongside Magugu.
The news about the Heirloom Project was shared on Thebe Magugu’s social media page, where it was also revealed the launch date will be announced soon.
“Thebe Magugu is proud to announce the return of our Customisable Heirloom Project, where you can customise a shirt, pants, and a tote bag with images of a loved one. Launch date to be announced soon. Who would you immortalise and why?’’ the post said.
Among this year's highlights for Magugu was being honoured with the first-ever Global Excellence Award presented by the Top 16 Youth-Owned Brands Awards (YOBAs) and Brand South Africa (represented by Toni Gumede).
The YOBAs aimed to honour the designer for his achievements and contributions to the fashion business, both domestically and internationally.
His list of accolades includes winning the prestigious LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers in 2019, making him the first African to win the prize.
Beyond his own designs, the designer has worked with international companies, such as Adidas, to share his distinct South African viewpoint with a broader audience. Celebrating his adaptability and inventiveness, the partnership with Adidas has been praised for fusing high fashion with athletic gear.
The designer, hailing from Kimberley, South Africa, has gained global acclaim for his fashion label, which beautifully blends traditional South African craftsmanship with modern styles.
One of his recent collections, Lobola, is renowned for its bold reinterpretation of traditional South African wedding customs, featuring intricate beadwork and vibrant fabrics.
The founder of the YOBAs, Pat Mahlangu, spoke highly of Magugu, pointing out that his designs not only embrace his South African heritage but also push boundaries in the fashion world.
Saturday Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za