South Africa Lands Its First Runway Show on the Paris Fashion Week Calendar

On 28 September 2026, South African luxury knitwear label MaXhosa Africa made history by gracing the official Paris Fashion Week calendar with its first full runway show. Founded in 2010 by designer Laduma Ngxokolo, the brand draws inspiration from Xhosa beadwork and celebrates African unity through its designs. The show took place at the South African ambassador's residence in Paris, marking a significant milestone for South African fashion.

Ngxokolo, who has previously showcased the brand in New York, London, and Lagos, described Paris as "the pinnacle" of fashion weeks. The collection featured 54 looks, including knitted tassels with the names of African countries and a large outline of the continent. The designs aimed to highlight South Africa's diversity, beauty, and business successes, as well as the country's vision for a thriving economy and reduced corruption.

In addition to the runway show, South African rapper and singer Sjava provided the soundtrack for the event. MaXhosa Africa employs about 300 people across its eight stores and two knitting factories in Johannesburg and East London. The company sources its wool locally in the Eastern Cape province, with Ngxokolo aiming to lift South Africa's textile industry and prove its capability in creating luxury goods.

Ngxokolo expressed his desire to bring other African designers to Paris, but acknowledged the lack of resources. The Spring/Summer 2027 collection, featuring 54 looks, will move into the selling season of buyer appointments, magazine coverage, and store orders. The brand's planned investment round, which could fund stores abroad in cities such as London, Dubai, and Tokyo, is a crucial next step in its growth strategy.

The article highlights the significance of MaXhosa Africa's Paris debut in representing Africa's fashion industry on a global stage.