Chulaap by Chu Suwannapha

Fashion influencer Chu Suwannapha was born in Thailand, trained in Paris and is based in Cape Town. Chu’s wide-ranging experience in the fashion industry is particularly evident in the vibrant and artistic execution of his trademark Instagram posts. His longstanding presence on the South African fashion scene has culminated in “Chulaap” – a chic, Afro Pop collection of intricate and eclectic African-printed textiles and origami-inspired knits released in early 2015. A prestigious collaboration with powerhouse sneaker brand Superga late in 2015 resulted in the creation of exclusive Superga X Chulaap shoe designs. 

MaXhosa by Laduma

MaXhosa by Laduma is a high-end brand by well-known textile and knitwear designer Laduma Ngxokolo, a globally recognised fashion icon whose designs are pushing Xhosa culture to the future. MaXhosa was inspired by Laduma’s vision for modern knitwear-based design solutions for young Xhosa men who, like Laduma, have undergone amakrwala (the traditional ritual marking a Xhosa boy’s journey into manhood) and are then expected to maintain a dapper dress code. The brand was founded in 2010, the same year Laduma’s textile collection “The Colourful World of the Xhosa Culture” won him international acclaim, and is a genuine celebration of Xhosa aesthetics. His A/W17 collection, “The Coronation”, features wearable, knitted garments with bold colours, geometric prints and authentically African small tassels.

Tlale by David Tlale

Tlale is an internationally recognised local label that is bold, sophisticated and defies convention. David Tlale started this brand in 2002 and attributes his fashion success to a design approach that challenges clichés and disregards pretence to champion beauty and poise, making him one of South Africa’s most exciting designers. The A/W17 collection, “What’s Beneath”, was inspired by the natural movements and curves of the body and, according to Tlale, will leave the buyer feeling gorgeous. The collection embodies classy, sensual and sophisticated fashion.

Lukhanyo Mdingi 

Lukhanyo Mdingi’s designs are a modern approach to African heritage and customs – with an undeniable presence of cross-cultural inspiration. Mdingi’s style is sophisticated, definitive and bold without compromising on class or refinement. Seamlessness is an important element of this authentic brand. His A/W17 collection, “Purgation”, draws attention to the elaborate patterns and rich hues of the South African landscape.

Nicholas Coutts 

Nicholas Coutts is a fashion-forward men’s designer specialising in two divergent designs. Strongly influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, he is most well known for his textured garments, each a one-of-kind creation. Raw material and fabrics adds to the striking aesthetic of these garments. These eclectic creations stand in stark contrast to his otherwise classic designs that focus on functionality and timelessness. The A/W17 collection has a prevalent 70s influence with vibrant colours.

Rogue

Rogue is a South African apparel brand founded in 2013. This flourishing men’s fashion label operates on the principles of high quality and superior fit to create conceptual, futuristic pieces that are underpinned by classic appeal. The A/W17 collection explores Rogue’s trademark aesthetic through the use of practical features in stark contrast with soft silhouettes.

Love Warrior

Love Warrior Men’s Outfitters was established in 2009. Offering a curated selection of designer brands, Love Warrior combines fashionable, practical and premium-quality products tailored to the style of the progressive man. The brand envisions a design space that, true to South African style, invites people from different backgrounds to collaborate and connect. The A/W17 collection includes the ranges “Crisp and Clean. All Black.” and “Urban Wanderer. Take on the City.”

Robert Daniel

Robert Daniel is a well-known South African lifestyle brand that specialises in classic formal and smart casual menswear. As the official clothing sponsor for the Cape Town Ajax soccer team, a Robert Daniel outfit guarantees great quality and a sophisticated, elegant look. The A/W17 collection includes stylish wind- and waterproof jackets and vibrant, warm colours.

By Jana van der Linde