Thebe Magugu’s ‘Mother & Child’ Dresses: A Tribute to Heritage and Bond

Thebe Magugu’s Mother & Child dress collection is a heartfelt tribute to the diverse cultural traditions of motherhood across South Africa. This capsule, part of his Heritage Series, features nine dresses, each representing one of the country’s official cultural groups: Basotho, Zulu, Swazi, Vhavenda, Vatsonga, Bapedi, Tswana, Xhosa, and Ndebele.

Each dress showcases a Pop-Art-style illustration by artist Phathu Nembilwi, depicting a mother holding her child in traditional attire specific to her culture. The designs are rendered on moss crepe fabric made from 100% recycled polyester, emphasizing sustainability and cultural storytelling. Design elements include a shirt collar, plunging neckline, attached neck foulard, ballooning sleeves with elasticated cuffs, and a high slit that stops just below the central motif.

Beyond fashion, this collection delves into the rich tapestry of maternal customs and rituals unique to each culture. For instance, the Basotho practice of setswetse involves a period of seclusion for the mother and child to protect them from evil spirits and illnesses. Similarly, the Swazi tradition includes the mother returning to her parental home for a month post-delivery, emphasizing rest and support. These narratives are explored in depth in Magugu’s Faculty Press, offering insights into the cultural significance behind each design.

The collection has been lauded for its fusion of contemporary design with cultural heritage. It serves as both a fashion statement and an educational medium. It celebrates the strength and resilience of African women, drawing parallels between their physical burdens and symbolic responsibilities.