Masango by Siphosihle to shine among SA's top influencers at the Hollywoodbets Durban July
What comes to mind when you think 'Marvels of Mzansi' and how are you interpreting the theme this year?
When I think of Marvels of Mzansi, I'm instantly drawn to the untold magic that lies beneath the surface of our everyday South African lives — the textures of our heritage, the rhythm of our languages, the landscapes that raised us. For me, the marvel isn't just in the obvious beauty, it's in the complexity of where we come from. That's why I chose to celebrate both the spiritual rootedness of my Sepedi ancestry and the mystique of Limpopo's natural wonders. My two looks for this year's Durban July are a deeply personal tribute to those stories: one grounded in the soil of my people, the other echoing the ancient caves that have held our histories in silence for centuries.
What is the most exciting element about your outfit?
The most exciting part is how nothing is purely decorative — everything has meaning. In my first look, every single macramé knot was crafted to represent memory and lineage. In the second look, the way the silk catches light feels almost other worldly; it's like I'm carrying the energy of those limestone chambers with me. Wearing something that tells a layered story,that honours where I come from while still feeling current and powerful — that's a thrill you can't replicate.
What inspired your choice of outfit and designer for this year's Durban July?
Siphosihle Masango has this rare ability to turn heritage into haute couture. I knew I wanted a designer who could honour my Sepedi background without reducing it to a surface-level reference. With MASANGO, we went deep — we talked about the reddish hues of Limpopo's earth, the dance movements of my childhood, the weight of silence inside Echo Caves. He didn't just design for me, he translated me into fabric, texture and silhouette.
What are you most looking forward to at Durban July this year?
I'm most excited for the moment when the crowd goes quiet — not because there's no sound, but because presence fills the space. It's that breath between footsteps when you're about to make an entrance, dressed not just in fashion but in memory, culture and intention. I'm looking forward to being seen as myself, through the lens of legacy, celebration and power. That's what Durban July allows — it creates a stage where our stories can walk unapologetically into the sun.
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