DJ Goes Haute: Uncle Waffles Takes the Spotlight
Swazi-born Amapiano DJ Uncle Waffles is proving once again that her name belongs on global guest lists. The 'Zenzele' hitmaker brought the beat, and the look, to the Louis Vuitton Men's Fashion Week show in Paris, an event helmed by none other than Pharrell Williams and attended by music royalty including Jay-Z and Beyoncé.
Uncle Waffles Spring/Summer 2026, on June 24, 2025 in Paris, France (Picture by Edward Berthelot via /Getty Images)
The Louis Vuitton Men's Spring/Summer 2025 presentation was more than just a fashion show—it was a cultural moment.
Held under the creative direction of Pharrell Williams, who continues to blur the lines between music and luxury fashion, the show drew some of the world's biggest names.
Among them: power couple Jay-Z and Beyoncé, who turned heads as always, with Queen Bey receiving an exclusive designer bag straight off the runway.
But it was Uncle Waffles, real name Lungelihle Zwane, who quietly owned the moment with her effortless cool.
Wearing loose-fitting brown trousers, a white button-down shirt, and a sleeveless jumper, she struck the perfect balance between streetwear and style week chic.
Uncle Waffles attends the Louis Vuitton Menswear Spring/Summer 2026 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on June 24, 2025 in Paris, France. Picture byHer short curly blonde 'do added a playful edge to the look, turning heads and cameras in her direction.
She posted a video montage from the event on social media, captioning it: 'If you like it, get it twice. Thank you for having me again.'
The DJ's rise from viral sensation to international pop culture mainstay has been nothing short of electric.
Known for her electrifying live sets and magnetic stage presence, Uncle Waffles continues to break barriers, especially for African women in music.
Uncle Waffles attends the Louis Vuitton Menswear Spring/Summer 2025 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on June 18, 2024, in Paris, France. Picture viaHer current single, 'Zenzele' (which Tyla posted dancing to), is rapidly climbing the charts and driving a TikTok dance craze, with fans across the globe creating their own choreographed spins to the amapiano anthem.
From the decks to designer rows, Uncle Waffles is showing that talent, timing, and authenticity are the ultimate style statements.
ALSO READ:WATCH: Tyla's big Nickelodeon night — hosting, slime, and a major win
The Verdict? She Ate.
While Pharrell delivered the fashion, and Beyoncé got the gift, Uncle Waffles brought the energy, the look, and the culturally cool that made the show feel truly global.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
TimesLIVE
5 hours ago
- TimesLIVE
Lububu mania: the psychology and frenzy behind the plush doll that's taking over the world
What do Rihanna, Lisa from Blackpink, Kim Kardashian and thousands of fans lining up outside toy shops have in common? One word: Labubu. At first glance it's just a quirky plush doll with wide eyes, jagged teeth and a mischievous grin. Some say it's cute, others are charmed by its odd and almost monstrous expression. But behind the grin is a cultural and psychological phenomenon that's turning this little creature into a global icon and sending collectors into a frenzy. Labubu is part of a whimsical world called The Monsters created in 2015 by Kasing Lung, a Hong Kong artist who at age seven moved to the Netherlands with his family. While there, Lung was influenced by Nordic folklore and fairy tales. He envisioned a tribe of playful elf-like beings called Labubu which he described as kind-hearted, well-meaning creatures whose good intentions often spiral into delightful chaos. These characters were first introduced through Lung's illustrated book series The Monsters, featuring more than 100 different Labubu personalities. Among them is one who dates a shy skeleton named Tycoco, often teasing him in loving mischief, a feature of Lung's light-hearted creations. Though the brand has been in the market for almost 10 years, it wasn't until 2019 when Lung teamed up with Chinese toy giant Pop Mart that Labubu began to take off in the global toy scene. According to Pop Mart, the first toy series launch broke records in the art toy category and that was only the beginning. A major driver of Labubu's popularity is the blind box model whereby you buy a box without knowing which version of the toy is inside. Some are common, others are ultra-rare 'secret' editions. This adds a thrilling sense of mystery and chance that hooks children and adults. It's the same dopamine rush many remember from childhood, like opening a Happy Meal and wondering which toy you'd get, or ripping open Simba chips hoping for that rare Pokémon Tazo. It's nostalgia wrapped in plush and plastic. As one fan described it saying 'It's like chasing that childhood thrill all over again — and sometimes, you get lucky'. Labubu isn't just being collected, it's being flaunted. From belt loops to designer handbags, the toy has quickly morphed into a fashion statement. Celebrities and influencers have played a key role in amplifying the hype. Blackpink's Lisa has posted selfies with her collection. Rihanna was spotted with a Labubu clipped to her Louis Vuitton bag. Kim Kardashian showed off 10 in her Instagram post. Even David Beckham shared a photo of a Labubu gifted him by his daughter. Last week, a life-size Labubu sculpture sold at Yongle Auction in China for more than $170,000 (R3.04m), with nearly 1,000 bidders vying for the piece. That moment cemented Labubu's place not just in pop culture but in the fine art world. Psychologist Sarah Rasmi said the Labubu craze is more than just good marketing — it's a window into our emotional needs. 'When we're young, we learn to find comfort and safety in certain people. Sometimes we extend those feelings to objects such as a favourite stuffed animal or blanket. These are known as transitional objects. Labubu can play that role for children and adults.' With its expressive faces and quirky personalities, Labubu allows fans to project their own moods, emotions and alter egos onto the toy. Giving a grumpy name to your Labubu? Posing it with attitude on your shelf? You might be expressing parts of yourself you can't put into words. Scarcity also fuels the desire. Limited edition releases, surprise boxes and viral trends create a feeling of exclusivity and the need to be part of something bigger. 'It's a safe way to express parts of ourselves without having to say it out loud,' Rasmi said. As the prices rise, one thing is clear, whether you're drawn to its offbeat charm, chasing a piece of your childhood or just want to flex on Instagram, Labubu seems to tap into something deeply human: the need for connection, comfort and creativity in a small, strange and lovable package. Now the question remains, if one should follow this trend or are we letting it pass?
The Citizen
6 hours ago
- The Citizen
Lorch showed the world what he is made of at the Club World Cup
Amapiano pioneers DJ Maphorisa and Kabza de Small say Lorch lived up to his song at the Club World Cup. Thembinkosi Lorch scores for Wydad against Juventus at the Club World Cup in the USA. Picture: EPA/WILL OLIVER Showmax Premier League While Wydad AC exited the FIFA Club World Cup this week, one name has resonated across the global football stage: Thembinkosi Lorch. ALSO READ: Pirates announce a magnificent seven The South African maestro's electrifying performances for the Moroccan giants have captivated audiences, culminating in a spectacular goal against Italian powerhouse Juventus. The world bears witness to Lorch magic Lorch's undeniable impact, despite his team's early departure, has been witnessed around the globe. Two men in particular who have watched him closely are South African musicians DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small. The two have special interest in Lorch, having released the song 'Lorch' in 2019, which is a song that pays tribute to the footballer. This week, Showmax Premier League caught up with the musicians to chat about Lorch's rise in the football world and how he has taken the international stage by storm. Amapiano pioneers DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small, better known as the Scorpion Kings, have reflected on the inspiration behind their chart-topping tribute 'Lorch' and the footballers current brilliance. When asked about the reasoning behind the song 'Lorch' in 2019, DJ Maphorisa revealed, 'When we made Lorch, it was during a time when Thembinkosi was dominating South African football,' said Maphorisa. 'He was the player that everyone was talking about – whether you were a football fan or not, you knew about Lorch. His performance in the Soweto Derby where he scored against Kaizer Chiefs really stood out. But beyond just one game, it was the flair, the confidence, and the swagger he carried on the pitch. That energy is the same energy we wanted in the song – something that feels alive, exciting, and full of vibes.' 'He became an icon of excellence' Kabza De Small added: 'Lorch has always had that thing. It's not just his skills – it's the way he is, how he carries himself, the way he represents the youth, the hustle. He became an icon of excellence and ambition for young South Africans. Just like in music, when someone shines that bright, we must celebrate it. That's why we did the song.' The simplicity of the song's title, 'Lorch,' was a deliberate choice to amplify its impact. 'Yeah. Just the name Lorch alone carries the association. When you hear the song, whether you're at groove, in a taxi, or watching football, you immediately know the vibe. It was meant to be an anthem – a direct shoutout, something simple but powerful. One name, big meaning.' Witnessing Lorch's dazzling displays at the FIFA Club World Cup has been a source of immense pride for the musicians. When asked if they ever envisioned him reaching such heights, Kabza confidently says yes. ALSO READ: Sundowns can hold their heads high despite Club World Cup exit 'When someone has that much talent and dedication, it's only a matter of time before the world catches on. We always knew Lorch was special. He's showing the world what South Africa is made of, just like we are with our music.' 'His playground' DJ Maphorisa was particularly impressed by Lorch's composure under pressure. 'Just like us on stage, the biggest platforms can either break you or bring out the best in you. Lorch looks fearless out there. It's like he's making the world his playground, and we love to see it.' The global spotlight on Lorch has also brought a new dimension to their iconic track. 'It's unbelievable but great' says Kabza. 'The song has definitely taken on a new meaning. Back then, it was a celebration of his local greatness – now, we can celebrate that it's an anthem that follows him globally. It's like the soundtrack to his journey, and it makes us proud to have been part of telling his story from early on.' Beyond football, DJ Maphorisa and Kabza De Small hope their song continues to inspire young South Africans across all fields. 'That's always been the mission,' Maphorisa emphasised. Whether its football, music, fashion, or whatever your hustle – we want young people to know that if Lorch can do it, if The Scorpion Kings can do it, then you can too. 'Dream big, work hard, and stay true to yourself. The song is bigger than just football – it's about believing in yourself.' Looking to the future, the Scorpion Kings have high hopes for Lorch's career. 'The sky is the limit for Lorch,' says Kabza. 'We'd love to see him continue breaking barriers in his journey. And definitely, we hope to see him shine in the national team jersey again.' Sign up for the Showmax Premier League mobile plan for R99 p/m at for all the Premier League action and more.
The Citizen
a day ago
- The Citizen
DJ Goes Haute: Uncle Waffles Takes the Spotlight
Swazi-born Amapiano DJ Uncle Waffles is proving once again that her name belongs on global guest lists. The 'Zenzele' hitmaker brought the beat, and the look, to the Louis Vuitton Men's Fashion Week show in Paris, an event helmed by none other than Pharrell Williams and attended by music royalty including Jay-Z and Beyoncé. Uncle Waffles Spring/Summer 2026, on June 24, 2025 in Paris, France (Picture by Edward Berthelot via /Getty Images) The Louis Vuitton Men's Spring/Summer 2025 presentation was more than just a fashion show—it was a cultural moment. Held under the creative direction of Pharrell Williams, who continues to blur the lines between music and luxury fashion, the show drew some of the world's biggest names. Among them: power couple Jay-Z and Beyoncé, who turned heads as always, with Queen Bey receiving an exclusive designer bag straight off the runway. But it was Uncle Waffles, real name Lungelihle Zwane, who quietly owned the moment with her effortless cool. Wearing loose-fitting brown trousers, a white button-down shirt, and a sleeveless jumper, she struck the perfect balance between streetwear and style week chic. Uncle Waffles attends the Louis Vuitton Menswear Spring/Summer 2026 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on June 24, 2025 in Paris, France. Picture byHer short curly blonde 'do added a playful edge to the look, turning heads and cameras in her direction. She posted a video montage from the event on social media, captioning it: 'If you like it, get it twice. Thank you for having me again.' The DJ's rise from viral sensation to international pop culture mainstay has been nothing short of electric. Known for her electrifying live sets and magnetic stage presence, Uncle Waffles continues to break barriers, especially for African women in music. Uncle Waffles attends the Louis Vuitton Menswear Spring/Summer 2025 show as part of Paris Fashion Week on June 18, 2024, in Paris, France. Picture viaHer current single, 'Zenzele' (which Tyla posted dancing to), is rapidly climbing the charts and driving a TikTok dance craze, with fans across the globe creating their own choreographed spins to the amapiano anthem. From the decks to designer rows, Uncle Waffles is showing that talent, timing, and authenticity are the ultimate style statements. ALSO READ:WATCH: Tyla's big Nickelodeon night — hosting, slime, and a major win The Verdict? She Ate. While Pharrell delivered the fashion, and Beyoncé got the gift, Uncle Waffles brought the energy, the look, and the culturally cool that made the show feel truly global.
