The State of the Nation Address (Sona), which took place on Thursday, is the one time we get to see another side of our politicians.
It’s the time they get to show their personalities with what they choose to wear on the day.
Over the years, Ministers of Parliament and other dignitaries have either shone on the red carpet or failed dismally.
Here’s a look at who wore what and who made the best-dressed list on this year’s Sona red carpet.
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Businesswoman and former Miss SA, Basetsana Kumalo, looked elegant in a pale seafoam green, body-hugging dress by the South African label Rubicon Clothing, which she accessorised with a Louis Vuitton bag in the same green hue with silver detail. She completed the look with a pair of nude Louboutin heels.
Acting Public Protector Kholeka Gcaleka stunned in an all-pink ensemble which she said was from a local boutique.
The floor-length dress showed off her hour-glass figure and featured a long train. She accessorised the look with a pink clutch bag and heels in the same colour as the dress.
Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Nocawe Mafu looked regal in a long, voluminous satin emerald green dress. She wore it with a black head wrap which featured intricate beading.
Dressed in all blue, Mandla Mandela donned a smart casual printed tunic and pants suit which he said he bought when he was in Senegal.
Compared to previous SONAs, this year’s event was a toned-down affair.
And rightly so, considering what South Africans had to endure, from load shedding to the cost of living sky-rocketing.
