Bonang-Matheba-s-Stylish-Reign-at-Miss-South-Africa-2023 African Fashion International

Bonang Matheba’s Stylish Reign at Miss South Africa 2023

A Glimpse into Bonang Matheba’s Miss South Africa 2023 Fashion Elegance 

Bonang Matheba’s Miss South Africa 2023 Fashion looks 

By Buhle Mbonambi

Fashion has always gone hand-in-hand with pageantry. It’s through the use of clothing that contestants are able to tell their story, showcase their confidence and a country’s prowess, without using any words. 

And that was the case at Miss South Africa 2023. Fashion played as big a role as the finalists to tell the story of where South Africa is and where it hopes to go. 

The fashion choices made by the organisation’s creative director, Werner Wessels, were all about making sure that Miss South Africa stamps its authority as the leading pageant around the world. 

From the introductory dresses, swimwear, tailored suits, and evening gowns created by top South African brands to the fashion choices made by the host, Bonang Matheba, it was all about sending a message to the world using fashion.

Bonang is someone who knows how to do that well.  

Stepping onto the stage as the host of Miss South Africa is no new feat for the multi-award winning on-air presenter. This year marked Bonang's third time hosting the event. With each appearance, Bonang's fashion sensibilities have evolved, leaving an indelible mark on the pageant's aesthetic.    

READ: Why Bonang, Ebuka and Toke Makinwa are key to boosting the African fashion industry

In the dazzling world of fashion and opulent pageantry, few names evoke as much awe and admiration as Bonang. As the clock ticked to the pageant’s start time, it wouldn’t be amiss that people were looking forward to her appearance on stage and what she would wear.  

Bursting onto the stage in a hot pink, Barbiecore inspired gown by Nigerian designer, Veekee James, she elicited admiring gasps from attendees. She changed four times, wearing garments by Ann Cranberry, Gert-Johan Coetzee and Biji La Maison.  

Through her collaboration with Nigerian stylist, Dahmola, she brought a new dimension of elegance to the event. Each ensemble seemed to encapsulate her multifaceted personality, exuding confidence, and regal poise. It was clear that she meant business- she wanted to showcase the prowess of African-made luxury. 

Bonang, the Trendsetter  

With an eye for fashion that transcends borders, Bonang has always used fashion as branding vehicle.   

Her style is characterized by its impeccable balance of sophistication and trendsetting audacity. With a penchant for pushing the boundaries of conventional fashion, she effortlessly transforms even the simplest ensemble into a masterclass of elegance. Whether dressed in couture by Africa’s best designers- she has worn Taibo Bacar, Rich Mnisi, Thebe Magugu, Tally Couture- or relaxed in elegant street style, she understands the power of fashion.  

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A Pan-African Collaboration 

At the heart of Bonang’s looks at Miss South Africa 2023 lies the collaborative brilliance of Nigerian stylist, Dahmola. Dahmola is renowned for the ability to fuse traditional African aesthetics with contemporary luxury.

Their artistic vision perfectly complements Bonang's allure. What is true is that Dahmola's ingenious approach to fashion has not only elevated Matheba's style but also reinvented the way we perceive African-inspired haute couture. 

Their synergy has not only redefined elegance but has also showcased the boundless possibilities that arise when two creative virtuosos unite. With Matheba's innate style and Dahmola's visionary prowess, the future of African fashion stands poised to unravel new dimensions of splendour and sophistication. 

Images: The Lagos Paparazzi for Bonang Matheba

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