The South African fashion designer, Laduma Ngxokolo made history and brought his brilliant aesthetic Paris Fashion Week with a banging collection inspired by culture, history and ancestral approval.
Ngxokolo unveiled the latest MaXhosa collection in the salons and gardens of the official residence of the South African ambassador to France, bringing colour, texture and plenty of cultural identity to one of fashion’s biggest international stages.
Titled Izihlwele Zivumile, meaning “The Ancestors Have Approved”, the collection leaned into Ngxokolo’s love for bold patterns and distinctive detailing while presenting some more pared-back pieces alongside the drama.
There were saturated colours, elaborate motifs and plenty of movement, including a striking caftan finished with ostrich feathers, featuring blue on one sleeve and orange on the other.
South African artist Sjava performed during the presentation, with his music selected for its connection to spirituality, culture and history. His performance was designed to complement the collection’s title and the idea of ancestral approval running through the show.
The setting itself added another layer of South African identity, with the collection being presented at the official residence of the country’s ambassador to France.
The collection certainly did not shy away from the MaXhosa identity. Logos and insignia featured heavily throughout, making the brand itself an obvious part of the visual language.
