Magugu unveils Mafeteng heritage pieces

Renowned South African fashion designer Thebe Magugu has once again captivated the fashion world with the launch of his latest “Mafeteng” Heritage Pieces, a vibrant tribute to his Sotho ancestry.

Unveiled on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, the collection features a striking women’s dress/top and a men’s compression top, both inspired by the cultural legacy of Mafeteng, a town in Lesotho where Magugu’s family originates.

Set to hit shelves at Magugu House and online on September 10, 2025, the release has already sparked excitement across social media, with fans hailing it as a powerful blend of heritage and contemporary style.

“A striking ode to Thebe Magugu’s Sotho heritage, the Mafeteng women’s dress and the Mafeteng men’s compression top will become available on 10th
September 2025 – named after the city the Magugu family hails from in Lesotho,” Magugu on Wednesday.

The Mafeteng pieces mark the latest chapter in Magugu’s acclaimed “Heritage” series, which reinterprets African tribal traditions through modern fashion.

Named after the Lesotho town known for its rich history, the designs weave personal and cultural narratives into wearable art.

The women’s dress/top, a versatile statement piece, and the men’s compression top, with its sleek and bold aesthetic, were debuted by influencers Sarah Langa and Tebogo Mabye, whose dynamic campaign imagery has amplified the collection’s buzz.

Showcased at Magugu House, the designer’s multifunctional Johannesburg flagship, the Mafeteng pieces reflect his signature approach: meticulous craftsmanship paired with storytelling that resonates globally.

The collection draws on Sotho motifs, with intricate details that evoke familial pride and cultural continuity.

The launch aligns with Magugu’s broader 2025 milestones, including his recent furniture collaboration with Weylandts and the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s acquisition of his work for their permanent archive.

As the brand approaches its 10th anniversary in 2026, the Mafeteng release underscores Magugu’s commitment to evolving African narratives in global fashion.

Magugu is the founder and creative director of the South African luxury brand bearing his name. His innovative designs, thought-provoking discourse and commitment to showcasing South African culture have earned him international acclaim.

In 2019, he became the first African to win the prestigious LVMH Prize for young designers. 

Born and raised in South Africa, Magugu’s early path in fashion was not without challenges. After being rejected from Central Saint Martins, he enrolled at Stadio’s School of Fashion in Johannesburg.

Upon graduation in 2016, he launched his namesake label, overcoming financial and logistical difficulties. A breakout moment came when he was chosen by Woolworths to create a capsule collection for Spring/Summer 2017, which was showcased at South African Fashion Week.

He has collaborated with major brands such as Dior, AZ Factory and Adidas and is stocked at Bergdorf Goodman, Net-a-Porter and Dover Street Market.

Staff Reporter

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