STYLE ICON
Flashy, peculiar, unique and out of this world – these are some of the words and phrases used to describe Somizi’s ensembles, whether on Idols SA, on the red carpet or in his day-to-day life.
A prime example was his “Ice King” bodysuit, which he wore to this year’s MTV Music Video Awards in Los Angeles. The pants flowed seamlessly into boots. Designer Anita Ferreira said 90% of the outfit was made with fabric that had tiny Swarovski crystals woven into it.
He completed the outfit, believed to have cost more than R40 000, with a curly Diana Ross-inspired hairdo.
He’s had some near misses as well, including one of the outfits he wore on Idols SA in October last year – a yellow jumpsuit that was likened to banana-flavoured Mageu (a fermented maize drink).
But like everything else, Somizi took it on the chin and laughed it off, writing on social media, “Hahahaha – I’d never want to trade my country and its humour for anything. I hope Mageu sees an opportunity here. I’d be a proud sponsor because I actually love this flavour.”
He created another stir at this year’s South African Film and TV Awards when he combined a long beaded necklace with a shimmery dress and topped off the outfit with colourful Ndebele-style bangles. He was likened to an astronaut by some, while others called him the fourth member of the Mahotella Queens.
But Somizi isn’t any less flamboyant in his everyday outfits. From brands such as Louis Vuitton to specially made sneakers and dress shoes, there’s never a dull ensemble in his wardrobe.