HOW AFRICA HAS INFLUENCED QUEER+ FASHION DESIGNERS JAMAL GROOTBOOM
WHEN it comes to fashion, Africa has been a lake of creativity that has never run dry. With several countries from across the continent not only “inspiring” some of the biggest luxury brands in the world, but also producing some of the best designers in the world. The fashion industry, much like most creative industries has also been a place that many queer people have been drawn too and subsequently work in. This is no different when it comes to fashion designers, and South Africa has been able to be a springboard for many openly queer designer to thrive.
1. RICH MNISI
Rich Mnisi is one of the biggest talents to have come out of the South African fashion scene. Not only has Beyoncé Giselle Knowles-Carter been draped in Rich Mnisi but his signature printed polo neck sweaters and short-sleeves have become some of the most soughtafter items. And as it pertains to blurring gender lines when it comes to clothing, Rich has never been scared to show that clothes are for everyone. When talking about why his brand has gained so much popularity Rich said: “I think the growth of the brand has been gradual. Over the past five years we’ve been building; showcasing at local and international fashion
shows, collaborating with local and international brands and campaigns. It is great to finally be a part of the local conversation, to be embraced and celebrated by South Africans.” The brand was also recently selected as one of two winners for the 2020 edition of Vogue Talent’s Digital Event under the Scouting for Africa.
2. GERT-JOHAN COETZEE
When it comes to red carpet eleganza, GertJohan is no stranger. Having been the go-to designer for Bonang Matheba among other celebrities such as Minnie Dlamini-Jones, Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters and many others, he is the king of serving a sickening red
carpet gown that will have you gagging. Gert-Johan was also behind Somizi Mhlongo-Motaung’s epic wedding suit seeing him dip into menswear too. Speaking about his design process he said: “Whenever I design a garment, it needs to be special for that person and capture what their whole life is about. It’s important for there to be a clear mark that this is a Gert-Johan Coetzee garment.” Gert-Johan has also launched his new unisex fragrance Double Platinum Eau de Parfum by GertJohan Coetzee.
3. THULA SINDI
As one of the OG’s in the South African fashion scene, Thula Sindi has been able to stay relevant
