Every now and then, we all need help getting style right. Man spoke to three of SA’s most stylish men to find out their secrets to keeping it together.
SETH SHEZI
A multitalented man, Seth Shezi is a writer, photographer and lifestyle strategist whose sense of style is
second to none.
How do you strike the balance between style being a fiercely personal expression of who you are, and the instinct
to follow trends?
Following trends too closely is a one-way ticket to fashion-victimhood. I’d personally never wear something just because it’s on-trend but I always find ways to incorporate trendy pieces into my personal style if, and when, it
makes sense.
Do you believe that one can learn style, or is it a sense that’s innate?
Style is an art – and just like any art form, there are some people who are born with a natural knack for it. But, there are also those who master it through observation and practice.
MENZI MCUNU
Timeless fashion is something that comes easily to Menzi Mcunu and he has the awards to prove it. As founder of Afrocentric Gentleman, he is able to put his image and creative consultancy skills to use as he travels the world, leaving his style stamp on every city he visits.
How do you strike the balance between style being a fiercely personal expression of who you are, and the instinct to follow trends?
I don’t follow trends but more classic style rules. If it looks good, then it looks good – go with your gut.
Do you believe that one can learn style, or is it a sense that’s innate?
I think to a large extent it’s innate, sometimes you just have to have that thing, that timeless cool. However, there are elements you can learn and build on. Essentially the attitude behind the style is innate and the actual style is learnt.
ZULU MKHATHINI
A musician, dancer and TV personality, Zulu Mkhathini is effortlessly chic and uses clothing and his sense of style as an extension of his creative expression.
How do you strike the balance between style being a fiercely personal expression of
who you are, and the instinct to follow trends?
It’s hard to find a balance when it’s all based on simply trying, experimenting and knowing you want to express at the time. For me, my mood at the start of the day will determine what my style will be. Because of that, I try not to plan anything that I wear too far in advance, even for events. And sometimes, that makes it hard to find a balance.
Do you believe that one can learn style, or is it a sense that’s innate?
I think that wearing clothes, and wearing nice clothes can be something you learn, but style is something that you are born with, simply because, there are different elements in an individual that make them stylish. Things such their character, personality and the way that they see the world. And it has nothing to do with size, how famous you are or how much money you have. Style is something that people are able to see from an early age as something that represents them.
Read the full interview with these stylish gentleman in your September issue of Man.
