Celebrating Tradition and Innovation: The Remarkable Journey of Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana
Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana, a visionary fashion designer born in Lesotho and raised in South Africa, has carved a path of excellence in the world of fashion with her eponymous label. Established in 2009, Thabo Makhetha has swiftly risen to prominence, earning a place among the leading voices in African luxury fashion.
At the heart of Thabo Makhetha’s brand is a deep reverence for her Basotho heritage. Drawing inspiration from the iconic Basotho blankets, symbols of status and tradition with roots dating back over a century in Lesotho, Thabo has woven her cultural legacy into every stitch of her designs. Her collection of winter wear jackets and coats is a captivating fusion of contemporary fashion and authentic Basotho craftsmanship, paying homage to her roots in a modern and innovative way.
Thabo’s talent and creativity have not gone unnoticed. Since her runway debut at Vancouver Fashion Week in 2014, where she received accolades for the quality and ingenuity of her work, Thabo Makhetha has been on a trajectory of success. Her collections have graced runways in South Africa, Lesotho, the United Kingdom, and Italy, captivating audiences with their elegance and cultural significance.
Beyond the runway, Thabo has been recognized for her contributions to the fashion industry and her impact on society. She has been honored with awards such as the Top 40 under 40 Business Leaders of 2014 by the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber and the Impact Award for Design Excellence. Her starburst coat was nominated for the Most Beautiful Object in South Africa in 2016, and in 2017, she was named one of the Top 200 young South Africans.
Thabo Makhetha’s influence extends far beyond the world of fashion. As a Mandela Washington Fellowship 2018 alumna, she embodies the spirit of leadership and innovation. Her participation in the artist-in-residence program for the exhibition “Breaking Down the Walls – 150 years of collecting at Iziko Museums of South Africa” further underscores her commitment to cultural preservation and celebration.
In October 2023, Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana embarked on a groundbreaking collaboration with CTM, South Africa’s leading tile retailer, to launch a limited edition tile collection in honor of CTM’s 40th birthday. This partnership showcases Thabo’s versatility and her ability to transcend traditional boundaries, merging fashion with interior design in a seamless fusion of creativity.
As Thabo Makhetha continues to break barriers and redefine the landscape of African luxury fashion, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring designers and cultural custodians alike. With each collection, she reaffirms the power of fashion to transcend borders, unite cultures, and celebrate the richness of heritage. Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana is not just a designer; she is a storyteller, weaving tales of tradition and innovation into every garment she creates.
