The Jean Maker: Meet Tshepo Mohlala – The South African Designer Redefining African Jeans
From a small township near Johannesburg to global acclaim, Tshepo Mohlala is the South African fashion maverick whose bespoke jeans are rewriting the narrative of African fashion. His brand, Tshepo Jeans, embodies a message of empowerment, celebrates diversity, and embraces ethical practices, positioning him as a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world.
Humble Beginnings and Big Ambitions
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Mohlala’s journey began amidst the vibrant yet challenging environment of a South African township. Inspired by the stories woven within the denim worn by his community, he envisioned creating a brand that would not only tell stories but empower lives. Faced with initial ridicule and skepticism, Mohlala refused to let his circumstances define his success. Instead, he turned adversity into fuel for his fire, determined to make his mark on the fashion landscape.
Bespoke Denim, Tailored for Africa
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Founded in 2015, Tshepo offers a unique perspective on denim, with a focus on custom-made jeans primarily for African women. In a retail environment where mass production and catering to Western silhouettes prevail, Mohlala chose to pave his own path, honoring the curves and figures of African women. His commitment to quality craftsmanship, with each pair of jeans hand-finished, has garnered global recognition, setting Tshepo Jeans apart in the denim market.
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Tshepo. Photo Credit: Tshepo/Instagram
The TSHEPO logo – a three pronged crown – is inspired by the three women to have played a role in the upbringing of Tshepo – His mother Masesi, his grandmother Magriza, and his trendy aunt Takalani. Women who raised him and shaped him into the man he is. They allowed Tshepo to wear his crown. Each peak represents a women that shaped him into the man who wears the crown.
The soul of the brand sits in its Atelier in Victoria Yards, in the outskirts of the Johannesburg Central Business District (CBD). The Atelier is home to a team of artisans who design and manufacture a range of bespoke and ready to wear garments, all telling a story. The people who make their products are celebrated and their love for creating beautiful things comes through in every stitch.
Global Recognition
Mohlala’s ambition has seen him transcend borders. Tshepo has made waves on international runways and graced the pages of renowned fashion publications. His designs have captured the attention of celebrities and fashion icons worldwide, solidifying his position as a trailblazer in African fashion.
In 2019, the brand got a massive boost from Meghan Markle, who bought a pair during a trip to the continent.
A year later, US pop star Beyoncé listed Tshepo Jeans among brands she admired.
In 2019 I received a call from the British Embassy. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were going to be doing an Africa tour and I was told that Meghan would actually like to wear jeans on her tour. Meghan came into our studio and we also created a pair of dungarees for little Archie.
Tshepo Mohlala.
Mohlala emphasizes the significant impact of celebrity endorsements in brand building, asserting that they have not only elevated the brand’s profile but also facilitated its expansion onto the global stage.
Beyond Fashion, A Message of Empowerment
Mohlala’s vision extends beyond simply producing jeans. He sees his brand as a catalyst for economic empowerment within his community. By sourcing cotton locally and creating skilled jobs in Johannesburg, he contributes to the growth of the South African textile industry while minimizing his brand’s environmental footprint.
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Tshepo Mohlala. Photo Credit: I See A Different You/Instagram
His unwavering commitment to ethical and sustainable practices is as integral to the brand as the denim itself. With every pair of jeans, he aims to not only clothe his customers but uplift their spirits, reminding them of the power and strength they hold within.
The Future of Tshepo
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Tshepo Mohlala’s story is one of relentless determination, resilience, and a belief in the power of fashion to transform lives. As his brand continues to garner recognition, so too does his commitment to ethical practices and social impact. Tshepo Jeans is not just a fashion label but a symbol of hope and a testament to African ingenuity.
Mohlala’s unwavering ambition sets the stage for a bright future where African design takes center stage in the global fashion arena. As fashion lovers worldwide become increasingly conscious of the stories behind their clothing, brands like Tshepo Jeans, rooted in authenticity and ethics, are set to lead the industry towards a more conscious and meaningful future.
Where to Find TSHEPO:
- Website: https://www.tshepo.shop/
- Instagram: @tshepojeans
- Twitter: @TshepoJeans
- Store Location: Cnr Jan smut ave, 6th Rd, Hyde Park, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa