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.
[WATCH] Minister in the Presidency @Khu_Ntshavheni dressed by Rubicon Clothing by Hangwani Nengovhela. She explains why it’s important to support and wear local brands. #SONA2025 #SONARedCarpert pic.twitter.com/pt92jLsbew
— @SAgovnews (@SAgovnews) February 6, 2025
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.
[Watch] Water and Sanitation minister Pemmy Majodina tells the story of her fashion designer, who has been struggling with access to water in Mthatha, Eastern Cape. @JusstAlpha #SONA2025 pic.twitter.com/JsRvJPQf4x
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) February 6, 2025
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
#SONA2025 | Higher Education and Training Deputy Minister Buti Manamela graced the red carpet in a two-piece overall designed by students from Cape Town’s Northlink Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College. #WearLocalatSONA pic.twitter.com/APbX5uMVQp
— South African Government (@GovernmentZA) February 7, 2025
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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Here are other outfits to check out:
[WATCH] MPs and invited guests on the #SONA2025 red carpet. pic.twitter.com/JRn4RxTm8H
— @SAgovnews (@SAgovnews) February 6, 2025
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
