Many may argue that the State of the Nation Address (SONA) is no fashion parade and that fashion is the least important topic of the day.
However, it's one of the most important days on the South African calendar and an occasion when politicians should look their best.
But beyond the rhetoric and parliamentary formality, SONA has also become an unspoken runway, a place where fashion, identity and national pride converge.
Over the years, members of Parliament have been encouraged to support designers, and this year is no exception.
The chairperson for the National Council of Provinces (NCOP), Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane urged attendees to wear clothing produced in South Africa to support the local fashion industry.
“The campaign, ‘Wear Local at Sona’, aims to elevate the local fashion industry, calling on the nation’s leaders to showcase South African designed and manufactured fashion at the Sona,” said Mtshweni-Tsipane.
And why does this matter? Because fashion is not just about aesthetics - it’s a billion-rand industry that employs thousands, fuels creativity and serves as a cultural touchstone. The red carpet outside Parliament also serves as an opportunity to shine a light on South Africa’s fashion economy, from heritage-inspired couture to cutting-edge contemporary design.
As this is a major red carpet event, it exposes designers to large audiences, making it important that the dignitaries share the names of those who made their outfits.
Proudly SA previously explained that it is important for the local fashion industry, as dignitaries wearing clothes made by both famous and emerging local designers provide them with a platform to showcase their work.
“Proudly SA’s goal of driving the ‘buy local’ mandate is critical for all South Africans. Retaining and creating jobs will lead to a world with less poverty and fewer social ills.
“Therefore, members of Parliament and guests must not only heed the call to wear local at SONA but also walk the talk by wearing local every day,” said Eustace Mashibye, CEO of Proudly SA.
Almost 2,000 guests from various sectors such as civil society, academia, traditional, religious, and cultural groups, are expected to attend the Sona that takes place in Cape Town City Hall.
Dignitaries in attendance include former presidents, former deputy presidents, former speakers of the National Assembly, former chairpersons of NCOP, Executive Mayor of the City of Cape Town, Queen of the Bapedi Nation and members of the European Union, among others.
IOL Lifestyle