Johannesburg, South Africa – This year’s collection is inspired by ‘Medley of Nature’ based on the great historical Mapungubwe Kingdom in Limpopo. The design aesthetic is derived from the kingdom’s social structure, the influence of trade with the far east and the area’s ecosystem.
With little research available on the exact fashion trends that were popular in 1200 AD, our head designer and Founder, Hangwani Nengovhela allowed herself to dream and re-imagine fashion history.
We know that this was a bustling kingdom in which the people lived in abundance. To show their strength and power, Mapungubwe’s ruler moved the upper classes to the top of a hill while the working classes remained on level ground. We’ve included that concept – showing the various levels of authority in where they lived through layering fabrics and constructing our garments from materials that depict movement.
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With over 22 years on the global fashion scene, Rubicon has come to be known for one major thing – they pay fine attention to detail. This is what separates the average garment from its exquisite counterpart.
For this seasons collection, Rubicon focused on the finer details including:
- Top-Stitching (inspired by garments worn by emissaries from the far east)
- Magenta, Sage and White colour Scheme (brought in from the Mapungubwe area’s surreal landscape, especially its horizon and gorgeous the flora and fauna found in that region)
The great kingdom of Mapungubwe has inspired legends the world over. During its heyday emissaries traveled from near and far to trade in exchange for the kingdom’s precious jewels – especially gold and ivory.
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The Majestic #RubiconQueen we design for is a globetrotter. Yet, she brings the spirit, the energy, and the power of the Mapungubwe Royal Kingdom to life wherever she travels – wearing our garments in various settings from work through to her social events.
The #RubiconQueen is uncompromising in how she presents herself and is known by those in her life as someone who is regal and operates with integrity.
Acclaimed local artist and United Nations ambassador Maduvha opened the show with her Rubicon inspired song ‘Mapungubwe’, while the models strutted the runway showcasing the brands latest collection.
Guests in attendance at the showcase last night included the honourable Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, seasoned actresses Stha Kgoroge, Florence Masebe and Nambitha Mpumlwana, iconic musician Bucie Nkomo, powerhouse businesswoman Futhi Matoba, media personalities Luthando ‘Lootz’ Shosha and Zizo Tshwete, socialites Naliyani Uma and Mamello Makha.
