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South Africans steal the spotlight at Paris Fashion Week SS26

The final installment of Paris Fashion Week, one of six annual showcases, wrapped up with the highly anticipated Women’s Spring/Summer ready-to-wear collections. While international designers flooded runways with fresh, innovative designs, it was the South African presence in Paris that truly caught our eye.

This season, two of our very own fashion houses stepped onto the global stage. Maxhosa Africa presented Izipho Zabadala, a collection that not only celebrated African heritage but also spotlighted local icon the Legendary musician Yvonne Chakachaka who graced the runway, while Zawadi YaMungu performed live during the showcase, fusing music, fashion, and culture in a way that was uniquely South African.

Meanwhile, Imprint unveiled Silapha Nje Kungemithandazo: Chapter 2 as part of Tranoï Paris Fashion Week SS26. Known for bold prints and unapologetic storytelling, Imprint once again proved that African fashion belongs at the center of the global conversation.

Beyond the catwalk, South African celebrities made their presence felt at shows hosted by L’Oréal Paris, The Business of Fashion (BOF), Casablanca, and of course, Maxhosa. Each appearance underscored just how much influence our creatives and tastemakers now carry on the international scene.

Among the stylish familiar faces spotted across Paris were actress Ama Qamata, content creator Sarah Langa, designer Mzukisi Mbane, lifestyle content creator Sinqobile Tusani, the ever-radiant Pearl Thusi, stylist Phupho Gumede, media personality Liesl Laurie, and MC and content creator Pamela Mtanga, Their attendance highlighted not just personal achievements, but also a collective moment of pride for South African fashion.

As Paris Fashion Week came to an end, one thing was certain: South Africans are no longer just attending, they’re making their mark. From the runway to the front row, our local talent continues to show up with style and substance, reminding the world that African fashion has a rightful place on the global stage.

Liesl Laurie

Former Miss SA and Media Personality, Liesl Laurie Mthombeni. Image:Instagram/@liesllaurie

Mzukisi Mbane

Founder and Creative Director of Imprint fashion house. Image:Instagram/@mzukisimbane

Sinqobile Tusani

Lifestyle content creator Sinqobile Tusani. Image:Instagram/@sinqobiletusani

Ama Qamata

Ama Qamata walking the Le Défilé Loreal Paris runway. Image: Instagram/@amaqamata

Phupho Gumede

South Africa fashion stylist, Phupho Gumede. Image:Instagram/@phuphogumede

Sarah Langa

Sarah Langa in custom Ashluxe for BOF. Image: Instagram/@sarahlanga

Pearl Thusi

Pearl Thusi dressed by Velostyle. Image: Instagram/@pearlthusi

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