British supermodel Naomi Campbell has praised South African designer Thebe Magugu, calling him one of the most influential fashion creators of today.
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“Then there’s Thebe Magugu from South Africa, who’s transcending fashion entirely,” Campbell said in an exclusive interview with i-D Magazine, the same publication where she first graced the cover in 1986.
For the latest issue, i-D invited Campbell’s friends, collaborators, and fans to ask her anything, leading to a conversation about the next generation of designers.
A ‘revolutionary’ force in fashion
Caroline Rush, CEO of the British Fashion Council, asked Campbell which young designers she had her eye on. Among them, she singled out Magugu, describing his work as groundbreaking.
“His new space in Johannesburg is revolutionary—part store, part cultural hub, spotlighting other creatives through exhibitions and panels,” she said.
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Magugu continues to push boundaries with his designs. In February, to celebrate Valentine’s Day, he introduced the Magugu FC Training Kit, featuring a Women’s League Shift Dress with an Obi-Belt and a Men’s Pink Jersey. The campaign featured South African power couple Zakes Bantwini and Nandi Madida.
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“When you purchase this training kit, the player name on the back will be automatically customised with the surname used to make the purchase,” Magugu explained.
Campbell also highlighted other designers reshaping the industry, including Duran Lantink from the Netherlands, Willy Chavarria from the US, and Nigerian-born London-based designer Mowalola Ogunlesi.
“These designers represent the future I’ve been envisioning. They’re not just making clothes—they’re creating culture,” she said.
Naomi Campbell reflects on her career and style
The interview also saw Campbell answering questions from fellow fashion icons, including Kate Moss and Karlie Kloss.
Moss reminisced about their time as young models in New York. “We used to cook Sunday roasts together in the ’90s. What’s your favourite dish to cook now?” she asked.
Campbell fondly recalled those moments. “Those Sunday lunches were everything—our little piece of home, especially when we were travelling, living out of suitcases. These days, I love making stuffed Cornish hens with sage and onion breadcrumb stuffing, served with Yorkshire pudding.”
Paris Hilton also joined the conversation, asking Campbell about her top three wardrobe essentials.
“A perfectly tailored black Alaïa blazer, a Dolce & Gabbana corseted dress, and a signature pair of Manolo Blahniks. If necessary, these pieces could take me from boardrooms to red carpets without missing a beat,” Campbell replied.
With decades of influence in the fashion world, Campbell’s recognition of Magugu underscores his rising global impact, solidifying his place among the industry’s most forward-thinking designers.
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Featured Image: Instagram | thebemagugu / Getty
