MaXhosa Africa presented its Spring Summer 2027 collection, Izihlwele Zivumile, meaning “The Ancestors Have Approved,” during Paris Fashion Week. The presentation marked the South African fashion house’s sixth season in Paris and its first full runway show on the official Womenswear Ready-to-Wear calendar. The milestone comes 16 years after the brand’s founding and reflects its growing international presence.
SPRING SUMMER 2027
The collection revisited the themes that shaped MaXhosa Africa’s Paris debut in 2024. Its first collection, My Conviction, introduced the house’s ambitions to an international audience. Five seasons later, Izihlwele Zivumile explored the significance of that progress through the generations, communities and cultural traditions that continue to influence its direction.
For Spring Summer 2027, MaXhosa Africa introduced a cleaner visual approach, using a predominantly monochrome palette to draw attention to silhouettes, textiles and construction. African-inspired accessories accompanied the garments, while adidas supplied footwear for selected looks. Handcrafted rings from Marche Noir and Jamtaan contributed further details.
South African musician Sjava performed during the runway show, presenting a medley of Umcebo and Amakehla. The songs addressed wisdom, ancestral protection, prayer and guidance from elders. He wore a custom iBheshu, drawing from traditional Zulu regalia.
South African multidisciplinary artist Xander Ferreira developed the set using iKhukho, traditional grass mats that artisans weave from natural grasses and reeds. These objects carry cultural associations with domestic life, marriage and initiation ceremonies. Ferreira used the mats throughout the installation, referencing African homes and the knowledge that generations of women have preserved.
This approach connected with the Lindelwa Foundation, MaXhosa Africa’s social impact initiative, which takes its name from the mother of the house’s Chief Creative Director. The foundation focuses on women, motherhood and sustainability.
Kenyan artist Cyrus Kabiru contributed sculptural eyewear that transforms discarded materials into wearable artworks. His pieces introduced an additional artistic perspective to the runway. MaXhosa Africa also distributed reusable tote bags to guests and clients, incorporating African flags into their design.
Ahead of the show, the house introduced its invitation as a passport featuring its emblem and crest. The symbols referenced Ubuntu, the Mpondo clan, protection and the Eastern Cape. The human figure represented uMuntu, while cattle horns acknowledged the founding family’s roots. Shields, spears and Cape Aloes completed the design.
Hair and makeup artist Nallah Sangarem worked with products from Plein Fard Boutique and Danessa Myricks, alongside Design Essentials hair products through Freme Agency. Fashion 4 Futures, founded by Illysa Wexler, provided backstage assistance, with Juan Lino supporting the hair team.
The finale featured a poem by South African branding specialist Thebe Ikalafeng, addressing Africa’s history, resilience and future. His words called for African responsibility in developing and protecting the continent.
The show also continued MaXhosa Africa’s diplomatic relationships. The South African Embassy in France supported the presentation through Minister Plenipotentiary Nthabiseng Makuwa and incoming Ambassador Ayanda Dlodlo. The house returned to the venue that hosted its first Paris presentation under former Ambassador Nathi Mthethwa, marking another step toward its ambition to establish a globally recognised African luxury house.
