Featured Designer: A look into some of our favourite brands

In celebration of South African brands and the Featured Designer Booth returning to our Cape Town store (soon to roll-out to Joburg) we tapped some of the brands that we feel are pushing South African fashion forward, both in their story-telling and in their garments. 

Spotlighting Artclub and Friends, Bully Boy, CULTISH, DEAD. and Illucid Studios*, we asked each brand to style a few of their staple favourites and upcoming releases into a shoot that best represents them and their brands in colour, texture and atmosphere

Artclub and Friends:

Artclub and Friends is an independent brand by artists/for artists. Artclub do not gender their pieces and call Cape Town home. Created by Robyn Keyser in November 2016, Artclub is a brand that all artists can call home. A brand where artists can express themselves freely and trust that support will always be available to them on their journeys.

"We are artists, who work with artists to make clothes for artists. We're here for the dreamers, the creators and the innovators. But beyond making beautiful clothes to inspire you to get up and chase your dreams, we exist to reconnect you to the profound process of making clothes - the stories of the people and their hands that make it all possible. We can't wait to help you build the wardrobe of your dreams." - Robyn Keyser

Credits: 

Models: Robyn Keyser and Tanya Slater
Models both wear:
Bonded Awkward Suit Jacket - Black and Bonded Cocoon Suit Trouser - Black
Tech Bag V2 - Leather
Chrome Dreams Bag
Technical Logo Cap - Black
Black Ankle Socks

Bullyboy:

Bullyboy invites you to Escape The Ordinary and embrace a lifestyle rooted in individuality, rebellion, and creativity. Established in 2021 and based in the vibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa, Bullyboy represents more than just a skate and streetwear brand; "we're a movement dedicated to breaking free from the constraints of conformity."

Bullyboy are committed to crafting products that not only speak to your sense of style but also stand the test of time. Each piece in their collection is meticulously designed and constructed with a focus on quality, ensuring that every garment and skateboard deck embodies the essence of durability and authenticity.

"We're more than just a brand; we're a family. We're constantly engaging with our community, listening to their thoughts, and incorporating their feedback into everything we do. From collaborating with local artists to hosting community events, we're dedicated to fostering meaningful connections and giving back to those who support us and our movement."

Credits:

Model: @minieta4uu
Model wears: Fancybully tee

Cultish:

Cultish emerged in 2020, yet its soul is deeply rooted in the vivid ethos of the 1990s. Ryan Brussow, shaped and inspired by the era of skateboarding, punk rock, and hip-hop, brings this vibrant spirit into the present. The streets he once roamed during his youth infuse his vision, guiding the creation of Cultish. While the brand itself is a product of the new decade, its foundation is built on the countercultural movements that defined his formative years. Not just a fashion label, Cultish is a bridge connecting the rebellious energy of the past to the modern era. Each design reflects this connection, blending opinion and fearless design with oversized, drapey forms, echoing the streets that once were Ryan's playground.

The pivotal moment for Cultish comes during a psychedelic journey through the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. It's here, in 2020, amidst the echoes of art and history, that Ryan envisions the full potential of the brand. Cultish evolves into a means of continuing the dialogue and archives of the streets, using fashion as a medium to convey these stories and concepts. Ryan's dedication to craftsmanship and quality remains unwavering as he insists on in-house manufacturing in Cape Town, South Africa. Each garment of Cultish stands out for its unique style and premium quality, with every piece finished by hand, embodying the brand's commitment to excellence.

Cultish, represents the hope for a better future, realized through modern dialogue. The brand is a movement resonating with those who carry the spirit of counterculture in their hearts, bridging generations and inspiring change in the contemporary world.

Credits:

Model: Samuel Nwude
Creative Director: Ryan Brussow
Model wears:
From the new VOICES A/W2024 Collection
Vermeer Oversized Pigment T-Shirt
Goth Logo Baggy Sweats
All-Over Sports Jacket
Distress Logo Oversized Pigment T-Shirt
Distressed Classic Baseball Cap
Edit Classic Logo Hoodie
XL Trucker Cap

DEAD.:

Established in 2015, DEAD.is a premium lifestyle brand that specializes in the creation of premium streetwear garments amongst a conglomerate of other products and service offerings such as DEAD. radio and DEAD. designer water. Starting their journey online, DEAD. have expanded their store to Joburg at 138 Jan Smuts Avenue in Rosebank.

"We plan to develop a visual footprint online and create or fast-track current and relatable topics within the public domain. Fashion is an ever-changing phenomenon, so we’re currently exploring different ways to influence our consumers via our position within the fashion community."

Credits:

Model: @icy_timo
Model wears:
DEAD. camo cap R
DEAD. sun glazed O/R
DEAD. o’clock Gold
DEAD. camo tote bag
DEAD. MA-1 reversible bomber jacket
DEAD. camo bowling shirt R/W
DEAD. camo denim jeans