Who wore what at the SONA: Red carpet edition

by Silindokuhle Booi

At the SONA 2025, local fashion took centre stage, with many attendees showcasing stunning outfits designed by South African designers.

The ‘Wear Local at SONA’ campaign, a collaboration between Parliament and Proudly South African, encouraged guests to wear locally made garments, promoting the country’s fashion industry and supporting local talent.

Some notable outfits from the red carpet:

Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni’s Elegant Dress: A figure-hugging dress from Rubicon Clothing, designed by Hangwani Nengovhela.

Minister Pemmy Majodina’s Xhosa-Inspired Apparel: A beautiful outfit made by local self-taught seamstress Zoleka Vicky Magwaca from the Mthatha Art Centre in Eastern Cape.

The Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, Buti Manamela, wore a stylish two-piece overall designed by students from Cape Town’s Northlink Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College

Inako Mateza, the 19-year-old Xhosa praise singer who ushered President Cyril Ramaphosa at the SONA 2025, wore traditional isiXhosa regalia. This stunning outfit showcased her cultural heritage and added a touch of elegance to the event.

 

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A post shared by Inako Mateza (@inakomateza)

Here are other outfits to check out:

These outfits not only showcased the country’s rich cultural heritage but also highlighted the importance of supporting local designers and the fashion industry.

Also see:Eastern Cape poet Inako Mateza steals people’s heart at SONA