A week ago, I found myself wandering the streets of Johannesburg, unsure of what to expect but eager to see the story behind one of South Africas most recognised fashion brands MaXhosa Africa, founded in 2012 by Laduma Ngxokolo.
This wasnt my first encounter with the brand Id passed by the MaXhosa store at Mall of Africa, in Midrand, countless times, admiring the bold, traditional prints that seemed to speak a language I couldnt quite understand.
However, stepping into the MaXhosa Africa studio would prove to be an entirely different experience and one that would redefine my understanding of African luxury fashion.
Navigating Johannesburg is an art. As they caution, Never look like you are not from here. However, in reality, many of us are merely passing through working, hustling and returning home at the end of the day.
As I made my way toward MaXhosas headquarters, I felt a certain sense of belonging to the city, yet I knew I was far from immune to its complexities. Despite my growing ease with the Joburg CBD, I ended up passing the building I was looking for twice, unsure of where to go.