Small shifts can have a big impact. Deciding to mend our clothing, shop secondhand, or breathe new life into the clothes we already own through clever styling are simple yet impactful ways to reduce our fashion footprint.
With that in mind, Nobanzi Sokhuthu asked five stylish people what shifts they’re making towards a more sustainable wardrobe. Here’s what they had to say:
Tintswalo Mabaso
A fashion content creator based in Cape Town and Johannesburg, Tintswalo’s work focuses on honouring personal style, exploring trends, and collaborating with brands that align with her personal aesthetic and values. This year she will be expanding her content to YouTube to offer more in-depth fashion insights and storytelling. Follow Tintswalo on Instagram.
My style shifts
I am prioritising sustainable fashion, making more conscious fashion choices by supporting ethical brands, incorporating thrifted pieces, and maximising my existing wardrobe. I also want to explore new routes to styling— experimenting with bold silhouettes, unique textures, and innovative styling—to go beyond my aesthetic boundaries.
Ponahalo Mojapelo
Ponahalo is an editorial fashion model and a DJ but her work in fashion and music, respectively, spreads a little wider than those titles. She is also a personal shopper and stylist who frequently rents out her garments. Follow Ponahalo on Instagram.
My style shifts
I am being more proactive about donating my pre-loved items to those in need. There’s a lot I want to give away—and everything is really cute, too! I want to integrate a highly organised system of keeping track of my items and knowing where everything is at all times.
I am prioritising accessories and statement pieces over collecting excessive amounts of clothing items. Corsets, infinity tops or dresses, belts, stockings and some nifty safety pin techniques are going to be my hill this year. I want to create more fashion content. It’s not enough that only my community knows just how cleverly I play around with clothes—it’s time I let the rest of the world in on it. It’d be cruel of me not to.
Andie Reeves
Andie is the founder of Cape Town Craft Club, a freelance writer and a production journalist at Twyg. She hosts regular craft circles where participants can bring any creative project to work on—whether it’s knitting a jersey or simply doodling in a colouring book. While crafting is often a solitary activity, these events offer a way to create alongside others, with the chance to leave feeling inspired and connected. Follow Andie on Instagram.
My style shifts
I am steering clear of synthetics and buying natural fibres as much as possible. I am learning how to keep my leather items and shoes clean to make them last longer. I am also getting pull-out drawers for my shelves to store folded clothes vertically—Marie Kondo’s KonMari Method—so items don’t get lost in big folded piles. I’m delving deeper into the world of repairing my clothes. And, finally and as always, I am making more clothes than I am buying clothes.
Zizipho Ntobongwana
Zizipho is a social entrepreneur, creative, and advocate for sustainability and menstrual equity. As the founder of Sheba Feminine, she is revolutionising menstrual care with organic, biodegradable products while tackling period poverty and destigmatising menstruation.
She also serves as Head Creative Director at Ez’lalini, where she leads projects that intertwine storytelling, culture, and creativity, often through the lens of sustainability and decolonial perspectives. “My work intersects innovation, community impact, and inclusivity, aiming to challenge societal norms while creating solutions for the future.”
My style shifts
I’m committed to curating a wardrobe that reflects my values—think fewer, better pieces that support sustainable fashion brands or celebrate African craftsmanship. I want to explore thrifted gems and vintage finds to make my wardrobe more unique while reducing waste. Another shift is to embrace the bold! I plan to experiment with colour, texture, and patterns inspired by our rich African heritage. Finally, I aim to lean into slow fashion—shopping intentionally and appreciating the stories behind every piece I own.
Teddy Nkonde
Teddy is a content editor and fashion content creator. Image Keith Sphiwe Mpumelelo Dliwayo, better known as Keith Virgo.
My style shifts
I am buying fewer clothes, I’ve built quite an extensive wardrobe over the years and I’d like to wear more of my favourite key pieces which I usually save for events. I’d also like to support local fashion not only for consumption but also to educate my audience about the amazing brands we have locally. I also have quite a lot of garments that I’ll be recycling through H&M’s garment-collecting initiative in partnership with Clothes to Good.
- All images provided
