Natasha Mutsiba, [email protected]
MZISTOZZ Mfanafuthi, a local music star from Bulawayo, has caught the attention of many with his unique sense of style. His recent outfit at the Roil BAAs Awards has captivated a lot of people, and he credits his stylist, Nolu TheSylist (Noluthando “Noey” Gumede), for helping him achieve his look.
Mzistozz says that his fashion sense is influenced by his love for kwaito and hip hop, and anything that brings out his character without words is a go-to for him.
“My fashion sense is influenced by what I’ve grown up in and around. My love for kwaito and hip-hop has played a great part in my sense of style and mainly anything that portrays that and brings out my character without words is definitely a go-to for me,” said Mzistozz.
When it comes to shopping, Mzistozz revealed that he prefers a spontaneous approach. He shops as he goes, and if he sees something that speaks to him, he purchases it.
“My shopping habits are impulsive and unplanned — I purchase things as I see them, if they speak to me and feel like ‘me.’ Sometimes, I’m unsure about what to buy, and I rely on my stylist, Noey, to help me decide.
She knows me well and is great at putting outfits together that reflect who I am, while also being appropriate for the event or occasion. It’s a great way to ensure I’m always looking my best, while still feeling like myself,” he said.
Growing up, Mzistozz was exposed to a lot of Southern African fashion, especially Pantsula, and was influenced by icons like Trompies. He also likes Levi Strauss and Jacob D, who created the first overalls design using dungaree denim fabric.
“Growing up I was exposed to a lot of Southern African fashion especially Pantsula and was influenced by icons like Trompies and as I grew up I’ve grown to like Levi Strauss and Jacob D, just to mention a few. Trompies, with their vibrant costumes and streetwise musicality, have not only dominated pop music but also transformed the ma Pantsula style from that association of gangsters to a respected genre, becoming true icons of Southern African culture.”
Mzistozz says trends come and go, but he has always stuck to what he knows and what works for him. His sense of style is not just about looking good, it’s about expressing who he is and his culture.
“So many trends come and go but I’ve never been a follower and rather preferred to stick to what is authentically me and the comforts of baggy t’s, shorts and stand out types of amaOli (converses) have been my go to’s and also things like dungarees and unique combos that scream hip-ho, Pantsula and over the years I’ve learnt to keep them fresh and revamped by just seeing what works and is relevant. Also having people in my team who know fashion and keep me current has also helped in staying up to game and broadening my fashion sense,” he said.
Among the numerous items in his wardrobe, one piece stands out as a forever favourite-the classic dungarees. These trusty garments have become his go-to-choice when he is unsure about what to wear.
In an interview with Saturday Leisure, Noey TheStylist, who is behind designing some of Mzistozz’s clothes, said Mzistozz is one of her top three favourite clients she enjoys working with.
“Working with Mzistozz is a pleasure. He’s always open to taking risks and trying new things, and our shared vision and understanding make the creative process smooth and enjoyable. I’d definitely put him in my top three favourite clients — he’s really easy to work with and always brings a positive energy to the table. He’s definitely a stand-out in my book,” she said.
She also noted that Mzistozz makes her job easy because he knows who he is and is open-minded when it comes to fashion and style.
“Mzistozz is a unique client, in that he is very open-minded when it comes to fashion and style. He knows who he is, and he trusts me to elevate his look without compromising his sense of self. Comfort is always a priority, as he is an active performer who dances often. For events, shoots, and appearances, I always go for outstanding and unique pieces that complement his personality. We try to strike a balance between style and comfort, so that he can look and feel his best,” said Noey TheStylist.
Noey TheSylist has also worked with other local artists, including the late Cal_vin Nhliziyo, Shadel Noble, Asaph, Da Kudu, KBrizzy, Ladee to name a few.
— @TashaMutsiba
