Magugu's Met Gala debut emphasises African style and storytelling
Canadian creative director, activist, and fashion designer Aurora James wore Thebe Magugu's debut couture appearance at the MET Gala, "Superfine: Tailoring Black Style."
This year's lavish Manhattan benefit highlights Black dandyism's subversive aesthetic.
The topic of the blockbuster night delves into the intricate history of the precisely cut dandy look. It also commemorates the debut of a related display at the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Magugu said: "I was inspired by the female muses of the Central & West African sartorial photographers in the 50's and 60's. Photographers like Seydou Keïta, Malick Sidibé, and Mama Casset, themselves style icons of the superfine, photographed women in a powerful blend of vintage elegance, cultural pride, and subtle sensuality.
The self-assured gazes of these women ensured that they sit before the lens not as subjects, but as co-authors of their image and likeness. Silhouette has always been so key in these images, with the women taking on an almost totemic and sculptural shape."
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Next Stay Close ✕ Mpungose's upcoming nuptials are shaping up to be more than just a private affair - they promise to be a cultural spectacle, with fans and loved ones expected to descend upon Nkandla in large numbers. Given his stature as one of Maskandi's most influential voices and a proud torchbearer of Zulu tradition, it's safe to say the day will be one to remember. Here's what we expect will make this wedding a grand celebration: A rich display of isiZulu tradition Zulu weddings are renowned for their vibrant regalia, deep rituals and symbolic exchanges. From the rhythmic beat of traditional drums to the ululating sounds of celebration, every moment of a traditional Zulu wedding carries deep cultural significance. Guests can expect to see: Imvunulo attire: The bride and groom are likely to wear traditional Zulu garments made of beads, animal skins and intricate patterns. Singing and dancing: And of course, plenty of it - Maskandi fans are expecting electrifying performances from his fellow artists and close friends in the genre. A feast fit for a king No Zulu celebration is complete without a hearty feast. Traditional dishes will likely be served in abundance - think uphuthu (pap), inyama yenkomo (beef stew), umleqwa (hard body chicken), ujeqe (steamed bread) and imifino (greens). Homemade umqombothi (traditional sorghum beer) might also make an appearance as part of the communal spirit. Given Mpungose's deep love for his roots, this won't be a day of champagne flutes and dainty hors d'oeuvres - it will be a vibrant, traditional feast where generations gather around the fire to eat, drink, laugh and connect in true isiZulu spirit. Mpungose has always worn his cultural pride on his sleeve, and this wedding is no different. By choosing to celebrate his union in Nkandla, far from flashy city lights, he's making a powerful statement: Zulu culture is rich, beautiful and worthy of honour. A public figure rarely turns such an intimate milestone into a community affair, but Mpungose has always been more than a musician - he's a cultural ambassador. His wedding is not only a union of two people but also a unifying moment for fans, followers and fellow Zulu people. So mark your calendars, dust off your traditional attire, and get ready for a December to remember. Mpungose is getting married - and he's inviting the nation to celebrate.
