Breaking the Mold: Tshegofatso Malefane’s Futuristic Take on High Fashion

Meet Tshegofatso Malefane, a name that has resonated across the global fashion stage. Hailing from the vibrant streets of Daveyton, this award-winning designer has built a reputation as a true “high fashion genius,” celebrated for his fearless creativity and avant-garde vision that consistently pushes the boundaries of contemporary style. Recently, Tshegofatso captivated the fashion elite at Moscow Fashion Week with Frankenstein, the brainchild and most famous collection of his brand, Tshegofatso By Design. A profound exploration of transformation and evolution, Frankenstein blends intricate butterfly motifs with themes of resilience, rebirth, and the liberating beauty of metamorphosis.

 

For Tshegofatso, fashion is far more than aesthetic expression—it’s a manifesto for individuality and empowerment. Each piece he creates is not just a garment, but a statement. His designs don’t simply adorn the body; they speak to the soul, offering wearers the confidence to break free from the constraints of convention and embrace their true selves. Fashion, for Tshegofatso, is the language of liberation, where identity and self-expression are unified in striking harmony.

 

In this exclusive feature, we go backstage with Tshegofatso at his much-anticipated homecoming showcase at Sta-Sof-Fro Soweto Fashion Week, where he returned from Moscow’s runways to reconnect with his roots. From his diverse sources of inspiration to his dedication to radical self-expression, Tshegofatso reveals his vision for a fashion landscape where personal style becomes an act of freedom.

 

Let’s start with your homecoming showcase tonight. How was the experience, and how does it feel to be back home?

I’m so happy to be back home! Showcasing at Sta-Sof-Fro Soweto Fashion Week is always such an honour. I didn’t expect to return for a third season with everything on my plate, but this opportunity means a lot for ‘Tshegofatso By Design’. The event has done so much to boost the brand’s visibility, and I’m really grateful for that.

 

 

Showcasing at Moscow Fashion Week must have been incredible. How did it feel to bring your story to a global stage?

Moscow Fashion Week was an incredible experience. It was such a privilege to showcase my work on a global stage. I presented my Frankenstein A/S (all-season) collection, which is all about rebirth, resilience, and renewal. The core message is about rising above adversity, no matter what.

 

 

Take us through your journey—when did your passion for fashion first ignite?

My passion for fashion sparked when I was 16. My high school had stopped hosting events because of gatecrashers and the chaos they caused, so I submitted a proposal to reinstate events and civvies days. When it was approved, I joined the school’s Representative Council of Learners (RCL) but quickly realised I didn’t have clothes that matched the vibe I envisioned.

Luckily, there was a sewing machine at home, gifted to my mum by her boss before moving abroad. I started experimenting with it, learning its functions, and played around with whatever I could find, from colouring jeans to reworking T-shirts. My schoolmates loved my creations, and it was in those moments that I felt my first real connection to the fashion world. That’s when I knew this was where I belonged.

 

 

How would you describe the DNA of your brand? What fuels your creativity, and how do you bring those inspirations to life?

The brand’s DNA is rooted in evolution—hence the butterflies in our current collection. My goal is constant innovation, to keep expressing the stories we want to tell. I also want to empower and liberate people through the clothes we create. I love the idea of people having their own wings and expressing themselves however they want.

 

 

In what ways does South African culture and identity influence your designs?

South African culture is a big part of my work. I believe the best story to tell is your own. I’m Sotho, and some designs in my collections feature traditional patterns that connect me to my roots. I’m also big on colour because it’s central to who we are as Africans. We’re not afraid to experiment with bold colours and patterns, and that’s something I’m proud to showcase.

 

 

What challenges have you faced as a designer in South Africa, and how have you navigated them?

The biggest challenge is the conservatism in South African fashion. Some people aren’t always open to new ideas, but I stay true to my vision and creativity. I believe the time will come when we’re all more open-minded about fashion.

 

You were recently nominated for the South African Traditional Music Achievements Awards (SATMAs) in the ‘Best Traditional Fashion Kulture’ category. How does it feel to receive this recognition?

It’s such an honour and honestly feels like a sign that I’m on the right track. I’m really excited to showcase this time around. I was nominated before, but I wasn’t in the right headspace and wasn’t fully prepared. Now, I’m ready. To vote for me, just SMS 026SATMA19 to 32436 and select Génie La Mode!

What are your thoughts on sustainability in fashion, and how do you incorporate it into your brand?

Sustainability is a crucial part of my brand. I believe in upcycling rather than discarding. There’s so much we can do with excess material, and reducing waste is important, especially since fashion contributes significantly to global waste. We should all be doing what we can.

 

If you could collaborate with any designer or brand, who would it be and why?

Locally, I’d love to collaborate with Gert Johan Coetzee—I’ve always admired his work. Internationally, it would have to be KidSuper. I love how he integrates pop culture into his designs and tells stories through his collections.

 

What advice would you give to aspiring designers who want to make their mark?

My biggest advice is to have clothes to show for your resume. People need to see your designs to be interested in them, and that’s how you build a profile. Also, remember: your truest passion is the one you find after losing the one the universe initially gave you. That passion defines you, and once you find it, anything is possible.

 

What’s next for you and your brand? Can we look forward to any exciting projects in 2025?

My bucket list for 2025 is packed with exciting goals. I’m thrilled to be exploring collaborations with some incredible Russian fashion brands I connected with at Moscow Fashion Week. I’ve even been in talks with the owner of Red September about a potential design role, which would mark an exciting milestone in my career. Africa Fashion International (AFI) Fastrack is also on my radar, and I’d love to be part of their programme. I’m aiming high with an eye on LVMH, and while I’d love to pursue some studies as well, my schedule might keep me from it for now. Watch this space!