Fashion is about identity, self-expression, individualism, and storytelling through clothing. With South Africa being one of the most culturally diverse nations worldwide, our richness in fashion and style does not come as a surprise. Our different backgrounds, coupled with the fast-growing social media influencer market, have played a defining role in pushing our fashion industry forward.
With that said, it is ever more important to be familiar with the tastemakers and trendsetters in the fashion influencer space. We have compiled a list of South African fashion content creators that you should be following on the Gram.
- Tsiko Mudau (@neaco_)
Fashion influencer and Computer Sciences graduate Tsika Madau is the epitome of style. Her chic style is a fusion of avant-garde and modern fashion. She mostly wears neutrals and styles them with statement pieces. Tsika has worked with various apparel companies, including sportswear brand Reebok.
- Kamohelo Pule (@kamo_ww)
Kamohelo Pule is a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle influencer with a whopping eighty thousand followers on Insta. He is also a proud representative of the LGBTQIA+ community and uses his platform to illustrate this. Kamo’s style is chic, with a hint of the avant-garde. Monochrome outfits (particularly all black) are his go-to.
Fashion should be a form of expression and not a form of imprisonment. – Alexander McQueen
- Chernè Africa (@chernaylin)
Celebrity stylist and fashionista Chernè Africa is nothing short of a style icon. From breaking the barriers of contemporary fashion to working with Rich Mnisi and Nasty C, Chernè has proven that the only way to change the game is by breaking the rules. Her fashion style can be easily classified as artsy because of the creativity in her outfits. She defies traditional rules of styling and adds her own flair to different outfits.
It’s all about good taste. – Giorgio Armani
- Gamaen Jordan Taylor (@gamaentaylor)
Cosmopolitan magazine’s sexiest man in South Africa for 2019, Gamaen Jordan Taylor is a fashion icon not to be trifled with. The media personality and celebrity stylist is known for his fiery outfits, which are chic, with grunge undertones. Gamaen’s outfits are usually monochromatic, with edgy statement pieces.
- Lesego Lebogane (@Thickleeyonce)
No introduction needed here. The businesswoman is a well-known avatar of the plus-size community; and the owner of Lee Bex, a boutique catering for plus-sized women. Thickleeyonce uses her platform to promote plus-size fashion and her photography work. Her style can be categorised as modish, with a dash of chic. Her outfits are inspired by modern fashion trends, with personal flavour.
- Fela Gucci (@felagucci)
Fela Gucci is a fashion icon and one half of the music duo FAKA, whose music was played at Versace’s SS19 show in Milan, Italy. Fela’s fashion style can be classified as both artsy and avant-garde. He wears unorthodox garments with bold colours and prints. Fela is not one to shy away from unconventional patterns and textures.
Real style is never right or wrong. It’s a matter of being yourself on purpose. – G. Bruce Boyer
- Sarah Langa (@sarahlanga)
Lifestyle content creator Sarah Langa is the queen of chic wear. The fashionista’s outfits are of quintessential elegance. Known for rocking flawless looks at popular events such as the Durban July, Sarah has a bent for monochromatic outfits and accessories (particularly hats). She manages to style various luxurious items without looking tacky.
Acknowledge the elegance of simplicity. – Giorgio Armani
- Leago Scars (@leago_scars)
From being featured on billboards to collaborating with reputable brands such as Calvin Klein, Leago Scars is a force to be reckoned with in the world of fashion. The celebrity stylist’s fashion identity is a hybrid of the exotic and the unconventional. Leago styles mysterious designs with bold and vibrant colours. His outfits usually comprise of exotic statement pieces that transcend fashion barriers.
Fashion is like eating. You shouldn’t stick to the same menu. – Kenzo Takada
- Thabee Happy (@thabee__happy)
YouTuber and fashion killer Thabee Happy’s style is a classic paragon of modish. With over a million followers on the platform, Thabee has worked with big fashion brands, including Nike and Fashion Nova, which corresponds with her aesthetic. Thabee’s fashion style is young, vibrant and trendy. She styles the latest trends while adding her own taste to them.
Kefilwe Mabote (@kefilwe_mabote)
Businesswoman Kefilwe Mabote is arguably the mother of rich aunty aesthetics in South Africa. The luxury fashion content creator oozes with class. Her outfits represent wealth and opulence. High-end fashion items and neutral colours define her fashion style.
Whether you’re into trendy fashion, glitz, and glamour or elegance, the South African influencer market has got you covered. With ample talent and diversity, these fashion content creators are well equipped to cater to various audiences. If you intend to step your wardrobe game up, follow them today!
