August 17, 2022 |
Community and inclusivity are at the forefront of everything Thebe Magugu does. The former LVMH Prize winner uses his collections to communicate his life and upbringing in South Africa, championing local craft and building a family of fellow artisans who create fashion that exists firmly outside the influence of the Western world.
His debut collaboration with Adidas fits firmly within this ethos. Launched globally online August 15, the collection – dubbed Finding Beauty – takes its inspiration from African heritage and kinship. Packed with a range of pieces, which are available in plus sizes, the collection features track tops, running shorts and T-shirts, swimsuits (including a Swim Hijab) and a dedicated tennis gear line. There are also special Thebe Magugu renditions of the classic Adidas Stan Smith, Astir and X9000L4 sneaker silhouettes.
Each of the pieces come painted in vivid shades of pink, purple and orange, inspired by the vibrant women in Magugu’s life. The designer also worked with South African illustrator Phathu Nembilwi on a series of joyous portraits which are scattered throughout the sportswear offering.
You will be able to see some of the pieces in action during the upcoming US Open, where players such as Dana Mathewson, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Jessica Pegula will compete wearing the collection.
“I firmly believe that sport has the power to bring people together over a shared love for the game. That is why I am thrilled to partner with Adidas, a brand that shares my beliefs and hopes for a more inclusive future,” says Magugu. “This collection was designed as a celebration of culture, heritage and inclusivity, and I cannot wait for some of the most inspirational athletes to wear it on court.”
Photography by Kristin-Lee Moolman. Shop the Adidas x Thebe Magugu collection here.
