Statement Coats from South Africa

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa — To be clear, we understand it’s not exactly the season, but consider this one to be tucked away for future purposes. Sometimes you just need a reminder to save for later. Rich Mnisi, the designer behind the eponymous South African label started in 2015, is no stranger to bold maximalist prints and minimalist silhouettes.

Rich Mnisi Art Argyle Coat / @rich_mnisi

As part of the forthcoming Autumn / Winter 2024 collection, Mnisi launched the Art Argyle Coat. Leveraging inspiration from Pierrot and the idea of performative identity expression, this coat is a perfect paradoxical delight — the playful pattern is definitely a bold choice, but the dramatic hourglass shape and cocoon sleeve lend a glimmer of timelessness. We can already imagine Lady Gaga in this look for the upcoming Joker: Folie a Deux press tour this fall.

In Mnisi’s words, “I grew up watching my mother and father getting ready for work, wearing these argyle printed pullovers, suits, ties, readying to take over the world. And then I’d turn to the TV and see a clown on screen adorned in the same fashions. And it made me think about how we choose roles and perform self. And how this can be rewarding, humiliating, challenging, exhilarating, and limiting all at the same time.”

The statement speaks volumes to the concept of ‘fashioning the self through clothes.’ The ability to simultaneously reclaim past narratives into a new present-day is part of the power of fashion. Mnisi invokes meaning into everyday garments and the wearer tells their own personal story through their participation.

To be honest, all of the Rich Mnisi coats are statement pieces (despite some questions re: fabrications) and since the weather is still in flux, consider this your invitation to make an investment in your future self.

Lead Image by Rich Mnisi