Meet Lineo Msimka: your inside plug on what’s happens next.
She isn’t just watching them, she’s decoding them. As a Marketing Trends Specialist at The Foschini Group, she’s the brains behind the scenes, translating culture, data and consumer behaviour into the fashion moments you’re about to see everywhere.
With skills shaped at powerhouse in-house agencies like AB InBev’s DraftLine and Heineken’s Ripple, she’s built reputation for turning insights into iconic, culturally relevant brand moves. Armed with a BA in Brand Building & Management and a Diploma in Marketing, Advertising Communications, Lineo sits at the intersection of creativity and strategy. But what sets her apart? She makes trends feel alive.
Think less boring reports, more storytelling that actually hits. This month, Lineo keeps us ahead of the curve, breaking down what’s trending, why it matters and how to make it your own. She’s serving insight, style and that main character energy!
Afro-Maximalism: bold and beautiful!
An expressive fashion movement rooted in African aesthetics, where more is more! It blends vibrant traditional prints (ankara, kente), rich textures, layered silhouettes, statement accessories and cultural symbolism into unapologetically loud; identity-drive looks.
“We’re seeing more people opt for Afrocentric hairstyles, colourful and accessorised footwear, as well as beads and embroidery,” says Lineo.
Brands such as Hertunba (Nigeria), Kai Collective (London) and, locally, Nemil, are growing in consumer love and popularity.
How can you wear the trend?
Add gold and brown Afro-inspired bangles and rings to your next evening outfit. Pair neutral knitwear with an African-print skirt for an Afro-Maximalist office look. The aim is to draw attention to your standout piece.
Beaded Choker R199, Foschini
Chunky Resin Bangles (2-pack), Foschini
H2: Casual Chic: cosy and clean!
This is about achieving the balance of effortless comfort and polished styling, where everyday pieces (jeans, tees, sneakers) are elevated through tailoring, clean silhouettes and subtle luxury touches.
The funnel-neck jacket has emerged as the must-have item in your closet this season, as it gives both casual and chic.
@paulinanoebe Yes - you can look chic without freezing! ❄️While you don’t want to wear the same 5 outfits there are some classics that are a go-to to stay cozy and look elegant 1️⃣ Fur coat & wide leg pants - the perfect mix to combine short and long silhouette and look extra chic, the fur will also keep you cozy (shop second hand)! 2️⃣ Maxi coats - a must hace in every wardrobe and a staple to pick season after season, you’ll look dressy even if you’re hiding a sweatsuit underneath 🤎 3️⃣ Oversize & oversize - cozy oversize knits & oversize pants allow for layering but look so unintentionally chic! 4️⃣ Suede & knits is not only an amazing combination of texture but the layers also keep you extra warm 5️⃣ Miniskirts are possible if you wear warm top layers and good thermal tights, so don’t push them to the back of your closet just because fall is over! 🥰 #elegantoutfit #effortlesschic #chicoutfits #itgirlaesthetic #winterfashion ♬ original sound - paulinanb
How can you wear the trend?
Add a scarf over your cap or tie it onto your tote bag. Wear a crisp button-up shirt over a white T-shirt and sweats. Tie a jersey or flannel shirt around your waist. And don’t forget your top-shield eyewear!
Chunky Round Frame Sunglasses R159, Foschini
FF Sqaure, Neckerchief Scarf, R199, Foschini
Colourful Corporate: bright and bossy!
Workwear is no longer about blending in, it’s about standing out while still being credible. “The colour combination trend has made its way to corporate and the girlies and guylies are loving it!” Lineo says.
“Young professionals especially are using confidence, individuality and mood in professional spaces.”
SA brands such as Me&B and Smudj are brightening up wardrobes and making office OOTDs vibrant.
@_plushshopping Office outfit color pairings ✨ #outfitideas #styleinspo #officewear #whattowear ♬ original sound - Plush
How can you wear the trend?
Mix and match your bright knitwear and trousers for an easy but fun office look. If you’re not a maximalist by nature, then go ahead and pair your greys, browns and blacks with greens, blues and yellows. And the next time you feel the urge to buy another grey blazer, resist!
Slingback V-Vamp Block Heels R249.99, Exact
FF Mini Bucket Bag R399, Foschini
Prices correct at time of print and may change.
Words by: Leila Petersen
Photographs: Gallo/Getty, Supplied. Prices Correct at Time of Print and May Change.
Text Courtesy of ClubX Magazine
