Renowned for his ability to craft iconic, star-studded looks, style maestro Kgosi Lesego has emerged as a visionary force in the world of fashion. Celebrated as a trendsetter, he hasn’t just influenced fashion—he has reimagined African luxury and elegance on his own terms. From styling South African icons like Bonang Matheba and Pearl Thusi to collaborating with international brands such as Karl Lagerfeld, Kgosi’s impact resonates both locally and globally.
As he continues to push the boundaries of style, Kgosi is proving that African fashion is not just part of the conversation—it’s leading it. His work is marked by a fearless blend of opulence and bold African elements, establishing him as a trendsetter and a guiding light for the next generation of fashion creatives in Mzansi.
Beyond styling his impressive clientele, Kgosi embodies the philosophy that fashion is something to create, not merely wear. Known for his minimalist, all-black style, he lets his clients’ looks take center stage, focusing on elevating others and crafting a bold narrative for African fashion on the global stage.
We caught up with Kgosi behind the scenes at Netflix’s Blood Legacy press junket, where he shared insights into his creative vision, thoughts on the local fashion industry, and plans to expand his influence internationally.
The Early Years: Mentorship and Finding His Path
“I initially studied theatre, then went on to a BSc in IT, but neither brought me joy. Working in retail and helping people pick out clothes was when I discovered my true passion for fashion. When I started out, I was lucky to work with ‘Lampost Creatives’ and have its founder, Jodie Ennik, as my mentor. My first major campaign was styling Bonang Matheba for Revlon, which gave me a real insight into the business side of fashion. Before that, I’d styled TKZ for their homecoming look-book and worked with Lira, which was incredible. Those early experiences were crucial in shaping my path in fashion.”
Creative Inspiration Behind the “Blood Legacy” Shoot
“The best way to sum it up? Corporate baddie! The shoot was inspired by the current direction of fashion, with a nod to Kim Kardashian’s iconic GQ cover. Fashion is shifting towards cropped and structured pieces, even in formalwear. The idea was to interpret this trend with an African twist, blending bold jewellery and our own sense of style. We used locally made statement pieces on the women, courtesy of Ali, an incredibly talented art jeweller. Above all, we wanted the shoot to have a high-fashion feel with a uniquely South African edge.”
Working with Netflix has been such a great experience. They’ve given us so much support and a solid strategy to work with as stylists. What I really appreciate is how accessible they are, making it easy to collaborate. And the best part? They really encourage our creativity, which is so empowering.
Championing Local Designers
“For the shoot, we selected mostly local designers, spotlighting veterans like “House of Ole” and “Ephymol.” While I’m a fan of emerging designers, I think it’s vital to remember the pioneers who’ve built South African fashion into what it is today. This shoot was a way to honour them and celebrate the legacy they’ve created.”
The State of Fashion in Mzansi
“Our fashion influence is definitely making waves globally, but the financial support in our industry is still lacking. Designers, stylists, and other creatives often struggle because there are few structures to help them thrive. Unlike the international industry, where creatives are well-compensated and celebrated, we have to work twice as hard for similar recognition. It’s heartbreaking to see young designers who can’t afford fashion school or even make a living from their art. Unionising and establishing fair rates would make a world of difference.”
Improving the Local Fashion Industry
“We need more focus on the business side of fashion. Short, practical courses could equip upcoming creatives with essential knowledge without requiring a three- to four-year degree. We also need standardised rates and regulatory support to protect and empower those in our industry.”
Current Fashion Trends
“Spring florals—boring, I know! *Laugh* But what’s interesting this season is the rise of the “corporate baddie” look. It’s a bit of a challenge with my work, as I often switch from styling winter fashion today and summer lookbooks the next week. I always give my clients what they want, but I’m all about pushing boundaries and introducing new ideas.”
“For spring, we’re bringing in bold colours, reimagining them for a professional look. The question is: “What does a corporate woman wear for spring?”
Working with New Talent and the Growth of SA Fashion
“One thing I’m really enjoying at the moment is seeing more stylists making waves and working on big projects. It’s not just about “opening up the industry”—it’s about seeing our fashion scene genuinely grow. I love working with new people. Not because I don’t want to work with the same team, but because it’s beautiful to watch others grow and bring fresh perspectives to our industry.”
Advice to Young Stylists
“In a world where everyone is trying to fit in, it’s crucial to know what makes you unique and celebrate it. Don’t be afraid to stand out, even if it means going against the trend. Coming from an academic family, I often questioned my career choices, but now I see that everyone has their own path. Start with what you have, send those cold emails, and knock on every door you can. Hard work and persistence are what will set you apart.”
What’s Next?
“Let’s just say I’m off to another continent soon, but that’s all I can reveal for now—thanks, NDAs! *Laughs* As for ‘Advice by Kgosi Lesego,’ my dream is to style an entire series. I haven’t done anything like that yet, so it would be a thrilling challenge.”
