House of Rubicon’s latest collection, which showed at South Africa Fashion Week this past weekend, digs even deeper into their storied history. Rubicon, a Johannesburg-based award-winning business, has become one of Gauteng’s most coveted fashion destinations for women with a global outlook since its inception in 2002.

With its new collection, ‘Mapungubwe Militaire,’ Rubicon commemorates its 21st year as a Fashion Institution and cultural cornerstone by drawing inspiration from the military’s critical role in defending the historic Mapungubwe kingdom. The collection, which debuted at SA Fashion Week for AW ’24, is a strong testament to South Africa’s enduring spirit.

This collection is a nod to Founder and Head Designer, Hangwani Nengovhela’s maternal heritage. The A/W ‘24 collection honors the prosperous era of Mapungubwe when the military stood as the stalwart shield, protecting the kingdom’s king, great wealth, and invaluable resources from potential threats and sieges. It was their unwavering loyalty, truth, and strength that ensured the kingdom’s continued prosperity and security.

“We’ve embraced the classic elegance of a monochromatic black and white color scheme as a disrupter to the traditional army green. Our monochromatic colors symbolize the timeless allure of the military tradition and remind us of the indomitable spirit of the nation.”

Hangwani Nengovhela (Founder & Head Designer)

The ‘Mapungubwe Militaire’ collection is a marriage between the ethereal and the practical which features functional pockets, double-breasted designs, structured silhouettes, combat wear, and tactical accessories. The A/W ’24 collection presents the purity of purpose and the unwavering truth that has guided the military throughout history.

Incorporating intricate patterns reminiscent of Mapungubwe’s lush landscapes, we reference the kingdom’s rich history. These patterns, much like the warriors of old, symbolize the nation’s enduring resolve. Music for the show was from Venda’s own legendary musician / actress Maduvha Madima.

Guests in attendance at the showcase included media mogul Basetsana Khumalo, Mrs Mrs SA Jo Judnick-Wilson, the fashionable Yasmin Furie and business powerhouses Irene Charnley and Charmaine Houvets.

Rubicon Clothing is celebrating 21 years of effortlessly style, form-flattering sophistication, precise craftsmanship, and classic design. Hangwani Nengovhela, the brand’s founder and creative director, personifies the brand flawlessly, adding understated African opulence to each collection.

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