Cape Town’s Zeitz MOCAA recently witnessed MaXhosa Africa’s futuristic leap with the debut of their SS23/24 collection. In a captivating spectacle, the fashion powerhouse breathed life into a vision of tomorrow, blending African folklore and spirituality with astrological elements. The museum’s central glass elevators served as the cosmic stage, hosting models descending as avant-garde explorers, setting the tone for a mesmerizing show. Dubbed A.S.T.O. (African Space Travellers Organisation), the collection unveiled 80 distinctive looks, seamlessly merging tradition with innovation. From panelled knit dresses to patchwork accents on suits, standout pieces poised to be timeless classics were introduced, embodying the brand’s essence.

This showcase wasn’t limited to runway glamor. MaXhosa expanded its horizon, introducing summer-ready printed t-shirts, creative quilt-like patterns on apparel, and a vibrant clash of colors, offering an arresting visual experience. Swimwear debuted, featuring the brand’s signature monogram patterns reimagined with cutouts and coverups, catering to diverse body sizes and gender identities across the African continent.

The choice of Zeitz MOCAA, with its futuristic architecture, was no coincidence. It perfectly mirrored MaXhosa’s vision while marking the brand’s inaugural solo show in Cape Town. This strategic waterfront location harmonized with their store at the V&A Waterfront, underscoring MaXhosa’s presence in the city. The event garnered immense praise, drawing media, fashion icons, and art enthusiasts from Cape Town’s creative circles. Laduma Ngxokolo, Founder and Creative Director, emphasized MaXhosa’s dual identity, stating, “MaXhosa Africa encapsulates African heritage while resonating with the continent’s zeitgeist, sharing its narratives globally.”

Ngxokolo highlighted the collection’s significance, expressing, “It reflects our journey as we transcend borders globally, debunking the myth that African designers can’t compete in luxury fashion.” The showcase not only presented the latest collection but also forged a significant partnership between the brand and the museum. MaXhosa’s touch extended beyond fashion into Zeitz MOCAA’s member lounge, integrating MaXhosa homeware into the decor, signaling the brand’s expansion into diverse design collaborations.