Rich Mnisi is a visionary designer renowned for his bold and innovative approach to African fashion. His eponymous label embodies a commitment to celebrating African heritage while challenging conventional notions of luxury. With a focus on storytelling and craftsmanship, Mnisi’s collections are imbued with cultural significance and a modern aesthetic that resonates on a global stage. Through his work, he aims to amplify African voices in the fashion industry, paving the way for a new narrative that highlights the richness and diversity of African culture.
As Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, celebrates 125 years of slow luxury travel, its 2024 calendar brims with a vibrant curation of events spanning contemporary culture. Among the most eagerly awaited is the third edition of CONFECTIONS x COLLECTIONS (CxC), curated by Twyg. We sat down with Rich Mnisi to explore the concepts and influences guiding his work ahead of this year’s dynamic celebration of African fashion.
You work has been recognised for its bold approach to redefining African luxury. How do you see your designs contributing to the future of African fashion globally?
We’re committed not only to celebrating African luxury, but also to reshaping its narrative on a world stage. Our designs are deeply rooted in African heritage, using storytelling, craftsmanship, and bold aesthetics that speak to universal themes of identity and self-expression. Our hope is to create space for African voices and craftsmanship to be celebrated globally, setting a new standard for what African luxury means.
Your brand celebrate your culture and heritage, and you often state your sustainability intentions. Are these two objectives easily aligned?
Not easily, but they are both essential parts of our philosophy. At Rich Mnisi, honouring our heritage also means respecting the land and the communities that inspire us. We work with local artisans, sustainable materials wherever possible, uphold traditional techniques and reduce our environmental footprint. To us, sustainability is not just a trend; it means respecting our resources, our culture, and the future of our planet.
Can you give us a teaser about the collection you will be showing at CXC 2024?
Nambu (River) captures the river’s duality as a lifeline and a force, gentle yet unyielding, flowing constantly and with purpose and shaping everything in its path. Our collection reflects on this unstoppable momentum, harnessed through structured tailoring that mirrors the river’s strength. Through clean lines, earthy hues, and fluid silhouettes, Nambu allows wearers to embody the strength of the river. Each piece is a tribute to life’s constant evolution, urging individuals to carry their journeys with grace and purpose, flowing forward and leaving renewal in their wake.
