Say ‘hello’ to Audrey Lunda, the model-meets-fashion and lifestyle influencer pulling the threads behind a whole new generation of dapper African men.
In the vast universe of Instagram influencers, there exists a shining star who captivates audiences with his impeccable style and unwavering dedication to gentlemen’s fashion. Meet Audrey Lunda (also known online as Mens Style Destination).
Born in Lubumbashi, the second largest city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Audrey was exposed to and fascinated by the extravagant styles of the sapeurs – swaggering style icons celebrated in Congo (and around Africa) who are synonymous with fashion, elegance and looking good, regardless of challenging socio-economic conditions.
Growing up in an environment where music, dance and fashion played an important role in bringing people together and building communities, the young fashionista naturally gravitated towards clothing as a tool and language to express himself daily.
Fast-forward to 2023, where he’s now based in Cape Town, garnered an impressive following of nearly 450K, and has managed to carve out a unique niche in an industry saturated with style content creators.
We’re diving into his world just in time for the exciting summer season, to discuss his approach to fashion, pick his brain about key trends, and find out what sets him apart as he cements his status as a young African style icon.
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How did you end up being an influencer?
Growing up, I always had a thing for fashion. For example, I’d often be late for church because I had to make sure I pulled out my Sunday best! After completing my BCom in business innovation, I became more passionate about content creation. So I took a leap of faith and turned it into a career.
In late 2017, while I was transitioning from fashion photography to runway modelling, I came across Pierre Laurent and Alex Costa’s Instagram pages. At that time, it became clear to me that fashion content creation was the perfect space for me, as it combined my passion for photography, fashion and lifestyle, and it was an opportunity for me to share this passion with the world.
Over the past five years, I’ve been sharing daily content with the aim to inspire men to become the best version of themselves by making a statement through how they dress.
What’s your philosophy when it comes to being a well-dressed man?
Like the saying goes, “The way you dress is the way you will be addressed.” I strongly believe that your outfit sends a strong message about who you are, before you even get a chance to introduce yourself and prove what you’re about.
Therefore, you want to make sure that the first message you convey is a strong and positive one. For me, fashion is a mode of communication – it’s just as important as speaking a language fluently in order to be able to fully express yourself and be in control of your narrative.
Which fashion trend of 2023 resonates most with you?
A It definitely has to be the ‘Old Money’ trend because it embodies all the different elements of my style. Although I like to diversify my outfits, I always maintain a level of class and elegance, even with my more urban-styled ensembles.
I also make sure that my outfits maintain a ‘less is more’ approach to mixing colours and accessories. The ‘Old Money’ trend allows me to perfectly combine all these elements.
What’s the best part about your job?
I am truly grateful that I can wake up every day and get to call this my career. Travelling the world, meeting people and inspiring young men to become the best version of themselves by making a statement through fashion is a dream come true.
And, of course, being a TFG MAN Magazine cover star takes the cake. It’s always been on my bucket list and being able to tick that off is a major achievement for me!
How do you manage a healthy work/life balance?
To be honest, it can be challenging, especially because what I do is very time-consuming – and I can be a bit of a perfectionist, which makes it hard for me to make time for my personal life before the work is done and it looks exactly as I envisioned it.
But recently I’ve started to make more of a conscious effort to change that by picking up new hobbies, like running and working out, which allows me to switch off, relax, enjoy time in nature and be present with my family in the moments we share together.
What was your biggest goal this year, and what are you looking forward to most in 2024?
My goal was to grow my audience. I wanted to reach more people in different parts of South Africa, but I also wanted to increase my global reach. I set myself a target to gain an extra 100 000 followers by the end of the year– as of September, I already had 150 000 new followers!
For the new year, I’m looking forward to continued personal growth and impacting more men around the world. And I’m also excited about bringing some of my boldest creative ideas to life…
Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?
I’d like to be setting up a digital-marketing production company where I can develop the next generation of talent in the fashion-influencer sector, while also producing quality content of the highest standards.
I also want to venture into the film industry and hopefully achieve great things in cinema! In the end, I want to be remembered as a go-getter, someone who doesn’t take work lightly, and one who will always stand up despite what life throws at them.
This is why I say to anyone aspiring to pursue this avenue of work: you don’t have to be great to get started, but you have to get started in order to be great. So, start where you are with what you have.
Do you have a special message for our readers?
Merry Christmas and happy New Year to you and your loved ones. I hope you celebrate in style with your family, get a well-deserved vacation in, and I wish you a wonderful year to come… Filled with fresh new threads, of course!
Fast facts
Favourite scent:
Gucci Intense Oud.
Fashion must-haves:
Black and navy suit, a white shirt and a pair of loafers.
Style icons:
Idris Elba and Pharrell Williams.
On repeat on your playlist:
“Lonely At The Top” by Asake.
Favourite food:
Congolese.
Dream travel destination:
New York City.
If you could have any superpower…
To be fearless.
Words by: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photography: Zhann Solomons
