Afrikanswiss Turns the SA Fashion Week Runway into a Denim Wonderland

Picture this: denim strutting down the runway in 2024, not as the casual staple we all know, but reimagined with versatility, boldness, and pure artistic flair. Thato Matabane, the mastermind behind Afrikanswiss, pulled off something extraordinary at this year’s SA Fashion Week 2024. His high-end denim brand, which has deep roots in African luxury fashion, left a lasting mark, proving that denim is far from ordinary—it's iconic.

Afrikanswiss, the high-end denim fashion brand that’s been pushing the boundaries of style for over a decade, continues to cement itself as a true game-changer. And with Matabane celebrating 10 years of success, the pressure was on to deliver something next level. Yet, he exceeded expectations. The AW25 collection wasn’t just a display of fashion—it was a celebration of identity, culture, and the future of streetwear.

Now, let’s get into the details. Denim berets. Yes, you read that right. This collection featured denim berets topping off each look—a small but striking touch that felt effortless, yet so revolutionary. Matabane’s styling was all about blending what we know with the unexpected, giving us a fresh spin on street style. SA Fashion Week has seen its fair share of iconic looks, but this year, Afrikanswiss gave us high-end with a streetwise edge that will be hard to forget.

What truly set this collection apart was how Afrikanswiss infused Khoisan influence from Matabane’s heritage, adding depth and cultural resonance to each piece. The denim didn’t shy away from vibrant colours and daring patterns, pushing the boundaries of traditional denim wear. Vibrant colours were artfully integrated into the fabric itself, resulting in a bold and innovative approach to seasonal fashion. Whether it’s summer in the city or a crisp autumn afternoon, this collection offers something for everyone.

From tailored denim blazer and matching pants, paired effortlessly with patterned silk shirts, to sharp collars and sleek overalls, this AW25 collection elevated streetwear trends with a high-end twist. The boldness in every stitch and silhouette reflects Matabane’s fearless approach to fashion. It’s not just about being trendy—it’s about being timeless.

One of the standout looks? A denim blazer with structured shoulders, styled with pants featuring unique colour-blocked patterns. The contrast was breathtaking—a true fusion of urban streetwear and luxury elegance. The African luxury fashion scene is evolving, and Afrikanswiss is leading the way with its perfect blend of culture, style, and premium craftsmanship.

And here’s the best part: while staying true to its roots, Afrikanswiss isn't afraid to explore new territory. Thato Matabane himself said this collection represents a “fresh leap” into his vision for the brand—a full understanding of who he is and where he comes from. You could feel that personal touch on the runway, with each design feeling like a love letter to his experiences and influences, especially those of his Khoisan heritage.

Afrikanswiss’ SA Fashion Week 2025 runway wasn’t just a fashion show—it was a statement. A statement that said denim is here to stay, but it’s not content with just being basic. It’s evolving, becoming more versatile, colourful, and unapologetically bold. So, if you’re looking for what’s next in fashion, look no further than Afrikanswiss—because denim in 2025 is a whole new vibe, and it’s here to make a lasting impression.