In a time in South Africa’s past when so few options were available to them, black parents from various backgrounds chose names that represented a new set of futures. They hoped to pass down, more than their dreams, the opportunity to rise above discrimination and pursue them.

“My sister’s name is Memory and it’s a literal interpretation of [being named for] the memory of my late grandmother. My mother’s name is Daisy, because she was meant to blossom into this great woman”, says Mnisi on the collection he has named for his late grandfather.

James’ four capsules explore life’s possibilities, led by the names we are given: Precious, Promise, Ambition and Desire could be any of us, set on a path by our circumstances, trying to live up to everything we are told we carry. James blends the smooth yet varied textures of lace, nylon and knitted mohair with prints, peeking mesh, and ribbon closures in Mnisi’s striking, signature silhouettes. In stark, abstract black & white with a few splashes of colour, Rich Mnisi paints a beautiful reflective picture of where a name can lead us.

About Rich Mnisi

RICH MNISI is a South African based contemporary multi-disciplinary brand founded in 2015 by Rich Mnisi. Initially, a creative outlet for Mnisi, hoping to unearth Africa’s hidden treasures while also being youthful, contemporary, and modern. The brand was born from Mnisi’s yearning to connect deeper with his unique culture and heritage and tell a compelling story through his art – a story of a mysterious past, intriguing present, and reimagined future.

Each RICH MNISI collection and offering presents a distinct point of view, celebrating culture, heritage, and the common human experience. All this packaged in extremist yet minimalist structures which are rooted in innovative design and superior craftsmanship. The brand is the artistic manifestation of a bold vision – a vision inspired by sources outside of the realm of fashion, including film, music, art, and nature. It is completely immersive while being pointedly measured, traversing almost seamlessly between the known and unknown, constantly seeking to evolve. At RICH MNISI, the possibilities are indeed limitless as the brand continues to innovate and pioneer in its quest for full artistic expression.

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