Thobeka Mbane on styling Ama Qamata for GLAMOUR’s Dec/Jan cover

Award-winning stylist Thobeka Mbane is a force behind some of South Africa’s most memorable fashion moments. A GLAMOUR Game Changer (GMG) 2024 winner, Mbane has shaped the visual language of multiple GLAMOUR cover stars and holds the coveted title of Zozi Tunzi's personal stylist. Known for her intentional storytelling and unwavering commitment to African fashion, her work consistently balances global polish with local soul. For the Dec/Jan issue of GLAMOUR, Mbane brought that vision to life through the styling of Ama Qamata, sourcing exclusively from African designers such as Hertunba, and centring authenticity, confidence and elevation. We caught up with her for a quick chat about her vision for the cover, championing African designers, and the collaborative process behind one of the season’s most striking fashion moments.

What was your vision for Ama Qamata’s styling for the Dec/Jan GLAMOUR cover?

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A snapshot of our Dec/Jan cover story featuring Ama Qamata

My vision was for Ama to feel like herself, the best most elevated version of herself. I wanted the styling to reflect how she wants to feel and be seen, while also leaning into her dream looks. It was important that she felt comfortable, confident, and fully represented in every outfit.

How did Ama’s desire to wear African designers influence your choices for this shoot?

I naturally champion African brands, so this aligned perfectly with my own approach to fashion. Much of my work is rooted in telling African fashion stories, so having a shared vision with Ama made the process seamless. It allowed us to authentically showcase African designers in a way that felt intentional and true.

Can you walk us through working with Siyababa and how the pieces were incorporated or sourced?

Siyababa is my assistant. I sourced all the pieces and conducted fittings with him ahead of the shoot. On the day of the shoot, I was travelling, and he was the only person I trusted to fully understand the vision — especially if quick decisions needed to be made on set and I couldn’t be reached. While I wouldn’t necessarily frame it as a collaboration in the traditional sense, it depends on how one views collaboration. That said, he is a talented individual and played an important supporting role.

Ama Qamata wearing Hertunba. Ama Qamata, Photographer: Aart Verrips

How do you see the relationship between fashion and beauty coming to life on this cover?

Fashion and beauty are deeply interconnected. The choice of hair, makeup, and lipstick must complement the clothing. Sometimes an outfit can be beautiful on its own, but it’s the right beauty choices that truly bring it to life and make the look cohesive and impactful.