Meet designer behind fashion looks from Lunathi Mampofu and more stars
Tell us about yourself.
Ronie Lesadiwa Mahlakwane is a young Black boy, the last born of four siblings, who was raised most of his life in the small village of Moroke, Limpopo.
Tell us more about the Lawren Son Junior (LSJ) brand.
LSJ is a legacy brand which is meant to be worn by generations. I pride myself in classic, custom designs that live beyond seasons and fashion cycles; pieces that, like conventional assets, can be passed on from one generation to another – an inheritance. This essence is captured in the name LSJ. Lawrence is my father's name, me being his son and junior a pet name given to a son named after his forefathers.
How would you describe your brand?
I believe that fashion can be used as an agent of sociopolitical change. My clothing is targeted at those who may be considered voiceless in this loud world; those who want to use the garments that they are draped in to rewrite history and leave behind a legacy that can be traced from one generation to another by threads.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by LawrenSon Junior (@_lsjdesigns)
How did you decide on fashion design as a career?
Fashion has always been my first love but because there was a lack of information on the industry as a profession, I couldn't voice my desire to follow it. I had no reference to anyone from my village or province, who had become a success as a fashion designer. I studied IT at Rosebank College and during this time, I started making garments for family members and posted these on my social media.
The rest, as they say, is history. What are you most proud of when it comes to your career?
Seeing my work on TV almost every day still feels like a dream.
What don't people know about you?
That I am very shy around people most of the time, and I prefer everything about my life to be private.
How do you keep up with the latest trends?
Trends are seasonal, which has never been my cup of tea. I pride myself with timeless and classic pieces.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by LawrenSon Junior (@_lsjdesigns)
If you had the opportunity to collaborate with an international designer, who would that be and why?
It would have to be Olivier Rousteing from Balmain. He's a creative genius whose work always takes me back to my drawing table to think even harder about LSJ.
When did you get your first big break?
When I got the opportunity to work with Gert Johan-Coetzee. He taught me a lot about the industry.
Which project did you enjoy working on, and which celebrity/public figure was it with?
It was season 1 and 2 of Young, Famous and African. I dressed the Naked DJ, Nadia Nakai, Kayleigh Schwark, Diamond and Zari the Boss Lady.
What excites you most about fashion?
It's fashion week season. I always feel like it is my time to be alive and tell my story, unapologetically so.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by LawrenSon Junior (@_lsjdesigns)
What skills are necessary to succeed in your career?
Paying attention to detail and the finishing of your product. But mostly, you need to fall in love with fashion.
What's the one fashion rule that you disagree with?
Trying to be different, because this will always make you look like everyone.
What's your tip on dealing with difficult people/clients?
To always take their criticism as a way of learning every day and remember that the reason they came to you is because they believe in your work.
What do you think is the most important quality to have in order to survive in your field?
To take every work or gig as if it's the last work that people will remember you by.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by LawrenSon Junior (@_lsjdesigns)
What is the best career decision you have made so far?
The best decision I've made is waking up every morning to do what I love. It doesn't feel like work at all.
Which celebrity would you like to dress, locally?
I haven't had the opportunity to dress Bonang Matheba and Zozibini Tunzi, former Miss Universe. I would love to dress those two powerful women.
If you could go back to the beginning of your career, what would you tell yourself?
That Black child, it is possible! What's the one thing you won't compromise on?
I will never compromise on attention to detail, quality and good finishing.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
News24
an hour ago
- News24
Divine textures as seen on Nadia Nakai and more stars
It's been a jam-packed week of film premieres, globe trotting and divine street style from South Africa's famous faces. Crisp tailored suits, sheer designs and textures ranging from sequins to snakeskin dominate the fashion scene, showing off how versatile Mzansi's stars are. Don't let the Euro summer style deter you, these looks are the perfect set of inspiration for layering as we slowly transition to spring. Let's take a look at some top style moments to add some inspiration to your wardrobe: Minnie Dlamini channels 'nurse chic' in a white mini dress and matching pointed-toe stiletto heels View this post on Instagram A post shared by Minnie Dlamini (@minniedlamini) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Relebogile Mabotja (@relebogile) DJ Zinhle's snakeskin boots pair perfectly with her biker girl-esque outfit View this post on Instagram A post shared by ZINHLE JIYANE (@djzinhle) Nhlanhla Mafu gives sequined delight in an NN Vintage strapless gown and velvet black elbow-length gloves View this post on Instagram A post shared by NNVintage (@official_nnvintage) Jessica Nkosi brings Parisian elegance in a two-piece Cubar outfit and pairs it with a Christian Dior tote View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jessica Nkosi (@jessicankosi) Anele Mdoda in an asymmetrical dress at the premiere of Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anele Mdoda (@zintathu) Blue Mbombo's Scalo suit oozes tear-drop elegance for World Tequila Day View this post on Instagram A post shared by Blue Mbombo (@blue_mbombo) Mihlali Ndamase brings 70s glamour in a Rich Mnisi mohair dress, accented by a headband, gold waist chain and bangles View this post on Instagram A post shared by RICH MNISI (@rich_mnisi) Nadia Nakai brings chocolate snakeskin texture in this dramatic sinched coat View this post on Instagram A post shared by BRAGGA (@nadianakai)
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2Ftal-6-summer-style-fads-that-arent-worth-the-money-tout-385ba1b3a54d42f39edf7b1d850c0790.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
Travel + Leisure
2 hours ago
- Travel + Leisure
6 Summer Style Fads That Aren't Worth the Money—and What a Fashion Writer Says You Should Wear Instead
This summer has brought so many fun trends. From nostalgic polka dot skirts to mesh ballet flats that require a pedicure, I've been thoroughly enjoying the return of fun to fashion—from afar. While I love many of the latest trends, it's just not practical to invest in them all, especially when I know they will be out of style within a year. Although I'm still drawing inspiration from new fads, I'm leaving the overly saturated, niche iterations behind in place of more timeless pieces. To save your seasonal wardrobe—and your wallet—I'm sharing the six trends you should skip this summer, plus what to wear instead. These classic alternatives will still make you look fashionable, but I'm willing to bet they'll stay in your closet much longer than microtrends will. Shop retro sneakers, timeless jeans, and more of my favorite styles, with picks from top brands like Madewell, and Levi's. Instead of Polka Dots, Buy Madewell Striped Mini Skirt, $70 (originally $98) Madewell Striped Mini Skirt, $70 (originally $98) Instead of Barrel Jeans, Buy Levi's 501 '90s Straight-leg Ankle Jeans, $98 Levi's 501 '90s Straight-leg Ankle Jeans, $98 Instead of Bloomers, Buy Stratus Lace-trim Satin Shorts, $67 with code SHOPSALE (originally $148) Stratus Lace-trim Satin Shorts, $67 with code SHOPSALE (originally $148) Instead of Mesh Flats, Buy Dsevht Crochet Ballet Flats, $50 Dsevht Crochet Ballet Flats, $50 Instead of Sneaker Mary Janes, Buy Puma Speedcat OG Sneaker, $100 Puma Speedcat OG Sneaker, $100 Instead of Toe-ring Sandals, Buy Wnshonzy Metal Hardware Flip-flops. $45 From satin skirts to sweet midi dresses, polka dots are the biggest print of the season. The nostalgic style adds a feminine touch to any outfit, and I've loved seeing it paired with more masculine pieces. I have a polka dot skirt myself, but I have a feeling it will burn out quickly. So now, I have my eye on more unique prints that will set me apart from the crowd—and last at least a few years. From the gorgeous, earthy stripe on Madewell's mini skirt to a romantic floral print on Belle Poque's midi dress, these designs will put a unique spin on any outfit, without looking unfashionable in less than a year. Barrel jeans are turning out to be the most divisive denim style since skinny jeans. They've been around for a couple of years, and yet, they still haven't been widely accepted. If you aren't game for facing some serious style criticism, opt for a wide-leg or relaxed, tapered jean that's just as fashionable. These silhouettes are the new classics, and I'm quite sure they're here to stay. Shop my favorites from just $39, below. It's rare for me to come across a trend I can't get behind, but I'm struggling to support the bloomers trend. Instead, I'm eyeing satin and eyelet shorts that feel just as feminine without looking costumey. Whether you splurge on the Reformation Fern Satin Shorts or dare to wear the $13 Ekouaer Satin Pajama Shorts in daylight, satin styles are so much more timeless than bloomers—and fashion people are starting to wear them in lieu of more traditional short styles. Eyelet shorts are another more versatile option that still exudes plenty of style; try these eyelet shorts from Madewell that can be dressed up or down and are on sale for just $47. Last year, I spotted mesh flats on a select few of the most fashionable of New Yorkers. This year, they're everywhere. I'm predicting that by next year, we are all going to hate the trend, and resale shops will fill to the brim with the discarded mesh flats we've grown tired of. Instead, I found unique ballet flats that are so much better. If you still want to show some skin, the Dsevht Crochet Ballet Flats are a great choice (and will make you look so in-the-know). Shopping for something truly timeless? The red Dream Pairs Ballet Flats make a statement, and they'll be in style for years. Shop even more of my top picks, below. Low-profile sneakers and Mary Jane flats had an ultra-trendy baby, and it's the most polarizing shoe of the season. Whenever two trends come together to create a hybrid trend, I'm wary of its lifespan, but something tells me this one will be especially short-lived. Instead of buying a pair of 'sneakerinas,' I recommended either buying sneakers or Mary Janes (or one of each!) that are just as cute and comfortable—but won't look dated in a year or two. In place of Puma's Speedcat Ballet Shoes, I'm opting for the original sneaker version that's just as trendy. Plus, I've found a Mary Jane mule that's just as unique, and it comes from one of the comfiest shoe brands around. Keep scrolling to discover your new staple shoe. I can't deny it: I'm obsessed with toe-ring sandals. My favorite pairs feature metal detailing on the toe loop, resulting in an elevated yet laid-back look. As much as I love the trend, however, I've been holding back on purchasing a pair for myself. In all honesty, I don't think I'll be pulling these sandals out of my closet to wear next summer. While the toe-ring style may die out soon, I'm predicting that metal hardware is here to stay. I found four gorgeous pairs of sandals with statement hardware, including flip-flops, gladiator sandals, and travel-ready slides. These pairs are versatile enough to dress up or down, and I'm willing to bet you'll be wearing them for years to come. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Washington Post
2 hours ago
- Washington Post
China wants you to buy Labubu dolls, not Lafufus
They're the 'ugly-cute' ambassadors in China's fluffiest soft power push: The Labubu, the pastel-colored, always grinning, fuzzy gremlins with bunny ears that have become the latest fashion must-have. Rihanna was spotted with one clipped to her Louis Vuitton purse. K-pop star Lisa from Blackpink raved about her 'obsession' with them. And stars from the 'Real Housewives' franchise recently coached podcast listeners on how to get them — and how to avoid buying a fake. It's not just the Real Housewives who are worried about dupes. Now China, criticized for years for intellectual property thefts as its factories turned out fake Chanel handbags and pirated Nike sneakers, has drawn a line when it comes to the burgeoning counterfeit Labubu market. Earlier this month, China's CCTV reported that fake Labubus — widely known as 'Lafufus' — were being seized by the country's customs agency. It did not share cumulative totals, but customs offices in several parts of China announced the seizure of nearly 49,000 suspected Lafufus in recent weeks. Plastic bags stuffed with fake dolls filled almost an entire corridor at a customs inspection site during a Lafufu sting at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge last month. Law enforcement officers have also been conducting patrols for Lafufus at some markets in the southeastern city of Shenzhen, local media reported, citing a journalist who went undercover to the storefronts. A further 200,000 fake Labubu goods — including plastic stamps, keychain pendants, plastic zipper bags, rubber floor mats and plastic building blocks — were seized in Ningbo in April. Still, video footage shared on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, shows large sacks of Lafufus being sold on Chinese city streets. They've found their way into the boutiques of Taipei and Seoul's youth shopping districts. And on YouTube and other social media, some users garner thousands of views showing off their Lafufu hauls. Labubus have become a cult sensation. People join long lines and even camp overnight at Pop Mart stores to buy the creatures, with some fans likening the rush to secure a toy to war or 'The Hunger Games' series. In London, Pop Mart stopped carrying the dolls in May after brawls broke out. Part of the appeal: Many Labubus are sold in blind boxes, meaning that consumers aren't sure which style of the doll they'll get. Pop Mart, a Chinese company that now has stores around the world, sold about $418 million worth of Labubus last year, its founder said this month, with the company's overseas revenue surging 375 percent year-on-year. Beijing, better known in recent years for using the hard tools of economic and military coercion, has seized upon Labubus in its effort to make China more culturally alluring. It has hailed the popularity of the animated movie 'Ne Zha 2' and the video game 'Black Myth: Wukong,' and is now touting Labubu as a national success story. The 'aesthetics, design and emotional resonance' of products like Labubus were helping the country develop from being known for 'Made-in-China' to 'Chinese brands,' foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said earlier this month. For that reason, Chinese authorities are cracking down on knockoffs. He Guojun, an economics professor at the University of Hong Kong, said that 'cracking down isn't just about Popmart,' but more 'about protecting Chinese soft power.' 'It's about proving China's IP system can protect the next Labubu,' he said, in an email. 'China should intensify its crackdown … not just to protect a single brand, but to safeguard its broader ambitions as a global innovator in the creative economy.' Pop Mart recently filed an application to trademark the word 'Lafufu,' according to Chinese state media, in an apparent effort to push out its illegitimate competitors. The country's official broadcaster also issued guidelines for how to distinguish the real doll from a fake, taking note of Labubu's nine little, sharp teeth. Lafufus often have fewer. Pop Mart said it does not have data to share on the scale of the counterfeit market. But it said in an email that the company is 'committed to protecting its artists, customers, and intellectual property rights globally.' Dupes, however prized by consumers, often pose a threat to brands far greater than sales lost to the counterfeit alternatives. Some analysts say that an oversaturation of Lafufus essentially risks making the real thing uncool. 'When consumers can't tell the difference between genuine and fake products, their experience worsens,' said Zhang Yi, CEO of the iiMedia Research Group, a market research firm based in Guangzhou. 'They may shift to newer alternatives, ultimately accelerating the decline of the original product.' But it's often the quest for a bona fide Labubu that appeals to consumers, according to Su Long, a visual art and cultural studies researcher at the University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur, who recently studied the toy craze as a social phenomenon. 'The hunt for these collectibles fosters a sense of community and shared experience, with fans bonding over the process,' Su said. 'In my research, I've found that the emotional investment and labor consumers put into acquiring these items — the waiting, the sharing of information, the joy of the unboxing — is what truly imbues them with value.' Su said he first became fascinated by the craze when he saw people returning to its Kuala Lumpur store day after day, exchanging whispers about inventory and the risk of highly sought-after collections selling out. He soon found himself regretting not purchasing one when he had the chance, he said. 'I vividly remember leaving the store only to hear shortly after that they had restocked Labubu V3,' Su said. 'It felt like a shot that had hit the rim and bounced out — a truly memorable feeling of being so close yet missing the opportunity.' He now owns eight Labubus. The doll has become a status symbol for many, with a 'life-size' Labubu selling for more than $150,000 at a Beijing auction last month. Inside PopMart stores, the figurines range from under $20 to nearly $960, depending on their size, but scalpers are quick to buy them out. Su said he has seen scalpers hang outside of Pop Mart stores, offering to buy Labubus from customers who excitedly unbox rare versions of the doll in the street. 'Possessing popular Labubu figures, especially rare ones, signifies that one is 'in the know,' fashionable, and a dedicated member of a specific subculture,' he said. 'It's a tangible form of cultural capital.'
