H&M Finally Launched Its First Collaboration With South African Brand Mantsho

“The collection is for and inspired by the confident life of the modern African woman.”

Mantsho’s head designer, Palesa Mokubung, feels both “honored and humbled” to have the opportunity to collaborate with a brand like H&M. She says : “This is quite a huge responsibly that I have been given to carry on behalf of my fellow African designers. I’m able to introduce one of the many facets of African design and aesthetics and showcase the talent and beauty of this continent through my craft.”

“The Mantsho x H&M collection cleverly transforms African print materials into modern and edgy designs suited for the confident, elegant and carefree, unique woman who sees herself as a style leader,” the designer says.

H&M is no stranger to cool collaborations. In the past few years, they’ve tapped Balmain and Moschino, and have also done capsules with Ariana Grande and Stranger Things. But the mass retailer is stepping into a new market with its latest collaboration. The collection is “inspired by the confident life of the modern African woman,” and invites a woman to H&M’s brand.

The Mantsho label stands for “black is beautiful,” and that is portrayed in all of the clothing in this collection. The capsule features printed kimonos and playful skirts that speak to the brand’s message. “Mantsho’s designs are influenced by the life of the modern African woman,” Mokubung says. “I wanted to celebrate the beauty of women, the vibrancy and diversity of the African aesthetic, its textures and colors.”

Mokubung's favorite piece from the collection is the Mantsho cape collar, which can be worn as a belt or collar. This was the designer's first time creating a line of accessories, but we can’t tell because the pieces are a direct reflection of the brand’s message. “I learned a lot [designing accessories], but I kept the influence of the designs authentic to the Mantsho's brand: modern African designs, bold, confident and carefree with comfort at the core,” she says.

H&M x Mantsho is already available in selected stores and online.