After immense anticipation, Netflix’s long-awaited series, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is finally here! On Sunday 16 April, Bridgerton enthusiasts, and some of Africa’s renowned celebrities, attended the sensational launch of the series. Written and produced by Shonda Rhimes, Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story is a prequel spin-off about Queen Charlotte – Bridgerton fan favourite character portrayed by award-winning actress, Golda Rosheuvel.
To celebrate the grand affair, the Queen Charlotte team reached out to four iconic South African designers and presented them with the task of conceptualising innovative outfit ideas for Golda Rosheuvel, as well as breakout star Arsema Thomas who plays the character of young Lady Danbury on the series. Orapeleng Modutle, Siyababa Atelier, Munkus, and Imprint are the designers who were hand-picked to approach the project with their signature design aesthetic and unique interpretation of the theme.
The premiere, which took place in Stellenbosch, South Africa, followed a “high society Bridgerton garden party with a hint of afro-chic.” The theme encapsulated the bold, glamorous, and extravagant sense of style that both the Bridgerton Regency era and “afro-chic” have in common.
Victorian-era inspired garment from sustainable fashion brand, MUNKUS by Thando Ntuli
Expectedly, the who’s who showcased their fashion flair at the luxurious premiere. Here’s a list of some of our favourite looks from the continent’s finest.
Zola Nombona
Ushering us into the royal event, multi-award-winning actress and presenter, Zola Nombona stunned in a lace, and velvet modified A-line gown from Willet Designs Couture. Embracing the high society Bridgerton theme, Zola adorned a modish black hat from Anita Ferreira Designs.
Blue Bombo
As established during fashion month, Barbiecore is still buzzing in the fashion streets. Being a true fashionista, model and media personality Blue Bombo adorned a magenta-pink corset dress with voguish puff sleeves. The shimmery dress comprised multi-coloured sequins on the bust area and glove sleeves. Exuding timeless class, Blue adorned a good old cream-white pearl necklace with matching earrings.
Brown Mbombo
Social media personality, Brown Mbombo unleashed her inner Disney princess (our money is on Cinderella) through a layered turquoise ball gown from fashion designer, Mngwevu Nhlanhla. The lace gown’s corset boasted gold and sea green details, matching her sparkly tiara from Jozeest Accessories. Brown further embraced the royal affair’s theme by adorning a pair of matching turquoise gloves, resembling an elegant Disney princess.
Mercy Eke
Nigerian reality TV star and actress, Mercy Eke dazzled in a crimson-red and gold 18th century Victorian-inspired gown from Kudo Collections. Envisioned by African style juggernaut, Swanky Jerry, Mercy oozed classic Western royal fashion, with an electrifying afro-chic twist.
Swanky Jerry
Style connoisseur Swanky Jerry, stunned in a violet blazer with royal blue detailing, as well as matching shimmery royal blue pants from Deji and Kola. Embracing the event’s alluring theme through glitz and glamour, Swanky Jerry resembled a knight in his glittery grey calf boots.
Faith Nketsi
South African reality TV star and social media personality, Faith Nketsi looked stunning in a ruby red fit and flare ball gown from Masango Designs. The mesh and lace ball gown embraced a more futuristic approach to the high society Bridgerton theme while adhering to its fundamental representation of royal elegance.
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