Master KG, Blue Mbombo named among SA's most stylish

Hollywood actor, producer and writer Orson Welles may have once said, “Style is knowing who you are, what you want to say, and not giving a damn”, but the founder of the SA Style Awards, Jillian Grogor, has her own definition.

“Style is knowing who you are, what you want, and possessing the passion and flair to make it possible,” she said.

This year, the Style Awards celebrated 24 years of honouring South Africans in the limelight who've showed an immaculate sense of style in the way they've conducted themselves in their daily lives, who've made their mark on their home ground and who've become powerful vehicles for change globally, too. 

“This year's selection of winners are especially pertinent,” says Grogor. “They've made their mark, despite the global pandemic.”

Winners in 10 categories were announced ahead of a Covid-conscious, invite-only awards ceremony, which took place in Sandton, Johannesburg, on November 22.

At the glitzy event, the person honoured in the 11th category — Most Stylish SA Icon — was revealed as being Jerusalema hitmaker Master KG.

Here are the other winners:

Most Stylish Couple: Siya and Rachel Kolisi

Kolisi is the beloved and lauded captain of the SA national rugby team. He led the team to victory last year in the World Cup.

His wife Rachel is a humanitarian and business owner. Through her work with the Kolisi Foundation and Rise, she has spearheaded many community projects and empowered young girls and women throughout SA.

Most Innovative Style: Yasmin Furmie

This fashion icon and brand owner is known for her highly noticeable, quirky style. “Never act your age” reads her Instagram bio. “Life is too short; do what you want, do what you like.”

Most Stylish Model: Blue Mbombo

This model, reality TV Star and business woman first came to the public's attention in 2015 when she was a housemate on Big Brother. She was first runner-up in the show and is now a household name in the South African entertainment industry.

Most Stylish Performing Artist in Music: Nadia Nakai

One of the most popular faces in the South African hip-hop sphere, this songwriter was the first female rapper to win the Shiz Niz Mixtape 101 competition on e.tv.

Most Stylish Performing Artist in Film or TV: Sindi Dlathu

This actress, who is known for portraying Thandaza Mokoena on Muvhango, was recently commended for the emotional depth she brings to the role.

The Next Big Things: Witney Ram and
Ama Qamata

TikTokker Ram is making big waves on the social media platform, while Qamata appeared in a leading role in the South African Netflix teen drama series Blood & Water as Puleng Khumalo.

Most Stylish Designer: Donald Nxumalo

This interior designer has amazed clients across the continent with his special blend of trending tastes and classic style. He won the Top Billing Win A Home interior design competition in 2014.

Most Stylish Business Personality:
Irene Charnley

This former trade unionist and businesswoman is the CEO of Smile Telecoms Holdings, a Mauritius-based pan-African telecommunications group with operations in Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and SA.

The Most Stylish Changemaker: Dr Sivu

The young physician, health activist and fashionista was announced as one of GQ's top 10 best dressed South African men last year, and is listed as one of SA's top 200 young people.

• This article was updated on November 23 2020 to reflect the name of the winner of the Most Stylish SA Icon award.