Sunday Tribune

South Africa’s stylish men who are re-defining menswear

- THOBILE MAZIBUKO thobile.mazibuko@inl.co.za

IN THE past few years we’ve seen a shift in menswear, with many males becoming fearless in exploring their creativity when it comes to fashion.

The beauty of fashion is it’s gender-fluid, and many men, irrespecti­ve of their sexuality, are starting to embrace that. This is thanks to queer men like Rich Mnisi, who defied societal norms and started rocking miniskirts, paving the way for more cisgender men to become more comfortabl­e about dressing the way they see fit.

Here are some of South Africa’s most famous stylish men who are redefining menswear.

Wiseman Zitha

The model and actor is one of the best-dressed males in Mzansi. He has no boundaries in fashion; he uses it as a form of artistic expression.

Zitha is known for his exotic poses, re-creating Vogue challenges as if he’s a muse for luxury brands.

The award-winning model doesn’t try too hard but gives more. He usually wears simple yet eye-catching outfits.

The ultramarin­e off-shoulder pantsuit, which includes an off-shoulder jacket with detachable flaps and gorgeous wide-leg pants by Karabo Official Designs, proves that it’s in his DNA to make clothes look good.

Linda Mntambo

If he’s not on the pitch playing soccer, then Mntambo is doing his side hustle – being an influencer.

The Sekhukhune United FC midfielder is one of the most stylish soccer players in Mzansi. From ripped jerseys to wide-leg pants and cut-off denim skirts, he is always up to date with the latest fashion trends.

He is also a fan of local fashion, with Tomi Rikhotso being one of his favourite designers.

Mntambo is a runway model. In November last year, he was one of the lead models at Soweto Fashion Week, showing off his tattoos and great legs.

Teko Modise

The former Sundowns FC star has earned his “Grootman” status because of how he dresses.

Modise has graced multiple fashion magazine covers, including Nounouche and GQ. He knows his way around the wardrobe.

Bradley Ndlovu

It’s no surprise he made it onto the GQ Best Dressed Man of the Year 2022 list because Ndlovu’s style is impeccable. You can tell that he’s the operations manager for Mnisi because he likes wearing mesh tops, wide-leg pants and accessorie­s.

Phupho Gumede

Stylist to the stars, Gumede is living the fashion dream. He has access to local designers such as Maryzo, Lendisi Creations, Masango and Malondie.

What we like about the Forbes 30 Under 30 recipient is how he sticks to the theme and never misses.

Gumede is also a stunning model whose runway never ends because even on the streets, he still struts his stuff. He has also made corsets for men fashionabl­e, showing his slim waist.

What we admire most about his style is that he pays tribute to the African cultures, especially when attending themed events. For example, at the Shaka Ilembe premiere last June, he looked dreamy in his Nigerian royalty Haute Afrika outfit.

Lemogang Tsipa

The talented actor has an eye for fashion, and his style suits him. He has a way of mixing pantsula with modern trends to create unique fashion looks.

What’s captivatin­g about his style are the accessorie­s. It doesn’t matter if it’s hot or cold, the Reyka star will rock a beanie that will blend with his look.

He also understand­s that certain styles are not reserved for special occasions or genders, and isn’t shy to rock a cropped top and show off his abs.

In 2024, we want to see more men break out of their shells and become the best fashionist­as with the most elite fashion sense.

 ?? ?? LINDA Mntambo at Soweto Fashion Week. | Sathia Pather
LINDA Mntambo at Soweto Fashion Week. | Sathia Pather
 ?? ?? WISEMAN Zitha uses fashion as a form of artistic expression. | Sne Graphs
WISEMAN Zitha uses fashion as a form of artistic expression. | Sne Graphs
 ?? ?? STYLIST Phupho Gumede wears eyecatchin­g suits. | Instagram
STYLIST Phupho Gumede wears eyecatchin­g suits. | Instagram
 ?? ?? TEKO Modise definitely knows his way around a wardrobe. | Sibu Mahlangu
TEKO Modise definitely knows his way around a wardrobe. | Sibu Mahlangu

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