In an industry where meaning gets lost in the fabrics, Malusi Malefane stands out as a designer whose work is as meaningful as it is masterful. As the force behind House of Lefane, this Cape Town-born visionary has redefined South African fashion with garments that blend elegance, cultural pride, and social consciousness. Since launching his brand - initially as Bello Diamond - Malusi has crafted a legacy that not only showcases refined aesthetics, but speaks to the stories and inspiration of his roots - being raised in the spirited township of Gugulethu. In this exclusive interview, we explore Malusi's creative journey, the inspirations behind his designs, and how House of Lefane uses fashion as a form of activism and upliftment.
Growing up in Gugulethu, what were some of the daily experiences that still influence your designs today?
Gugulethu is rhythm, it’s colour, it’s movement — and that energy is in everything I create. The textures of everyday life there, from the vibrancy of the market stalls to the way people show up in their Sunday best, have stayed with me. It taught me that fashion is storytelling. Even the way my grandmother would stitch garments by hand or how neighbours would tailor their clothes to express themselves — those memories show up in my work through attention to detail and authenticity.
What’s been your proudest moment since rebranding to House of Lefane?
Rebranding was like stepping fully into my truth. But if I had to choose one moment, it was seeing my designs worn by Zahara. That wasn’t just fashion — it was legacy meeting legacy. She embodied the spirit of the brand: elegant, rooted, and powerful. That moment reminded me why I do this.
House of Lefane balances sophistication and accessibility. How do you balance luxury and relatability in your collections?
I design with my people in mind. Luxury doesn’t have to mean exclusive — it can mean excellence, intention, and a garment that makes someone feel seen. I use premium fabrics, but I also think about how it fits into someone’s real life. I want someone from Gugulethu and someone from Constantia to feel equally empowered in a “Lefane” piece.
What role do you think fashion should play in activism and community upliftment?
Fashion is voice. And in South Africa, we need more voices that speak to our realities. I believe fashion can challenge, heal, and rebuild. That’s why I collaborated with Viva Con Agua — it’s bigger than clothing. If my platform can shine a light on issues like access to clean water or support local talent, then I’m using it right.
What’s a fashion rule you love to break?
“Less is more” — I challenge that all the time. More colour, more detail, more emotion. I like a bit of drama when it’s done with purpose. You can tell a quiet story loudly and a loud story gently — that’s the sweet spot.
How would you describe your personal style, and which garment or collection from House of Lefane would you say best embodies that?
My style is clean with bold moments — think structured silhouettes with unexpected elements. The "UBUNTU" collection reflects that well — it was inspired by the idea of shade as comfort, as presence. It’s grounded but daring, which is how I like to move.
As a young designer leading a growing fashion brand, what kind of example do you hope to set for the next generation?
That you don’t have to compromise your roots to dream globally. I want young designers to know that you can build something powerful from where you are, with what you have. That being African is your superpower — our stories are gold.
What’s one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you first started out?
Trust your pace. This industry makes you feel like you have to blow up overnight, but longevity is built with intention. Also, protect your creativity. It’s your currency.
How do you stay creatively inspired in an industry that moves so quickly, while juggling the business and leadership side of things?
I stay close to people. Conversations, street culture, music, even the aunties at church — there’s inspiration everywhere. I also take solo walks, sketch at night, and surround myself with a team that reminds me why I started. The business side is heavy, yes, but the vision always pulls me back to the sketchpad.
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