AFI Insider

AFI Privé’s Abundant Grace collection is a masterful exploration of spirituality, heritage, and elegance. Inspired by African and Western spiritual traditions, the collection redefines luxury fashion through cultural storytelling and meticulous craftsmanship.

The collection was produced by the AFI Atelier based on the creative direction of designer Loice Dube, who won the AFI Fastrack Price for 2023/24. 

“The aim was never to appropriate religious iconography but to honour the communities that have long used clothing as a means of cultural expression,” Dube explained about the collection’s inspiration. 

At the heart of Abundant Grace lies Black Dandyism—a philosophy of self-presentation, dignity, and resistance. Historically, Black Dandies used refined dressing to challenge societal limitations, asserting identity and pride through elegance. 

In South Africa, this ethos evolved within church attire, where formal dress codes symbolise discipline, reverence, and community identity.

South African church attire carries a distinct history shaped by colonial influences but transformed through local culture. 

Uniforms inspired by European military and clerical dress were adapted into garments reflecting African spirituality and heritage. Sharp coats, belted waists, and pressed garments worn in Apostolic and Zionist churches embody dandyism’s principles—where immaculate dressing becomes both a spiritual and social statement. 

AFI Privé has become synonymous with contemporary, accessible African luxury, and Abundant Grace continues this legacy while redefining its boundaries.

“Beyond craftsmanship and design,” Dube notes, “this collection offers nostalgia and empowerment.” 

Shoppers can expect sharp tailoring, symbolic embellishments, and garments that embody dignity through design. 

From tailored blazers in brocades, pinstripe suiting fabric, linen shackets with pintuck detailing, midi-length dresses with corsets, wide legged trousers with beading, to elaborate blouses. It’s a collection that celebrates abundance without excess. It reflects generosity in the craftsmanship and design prowess of the AFI Atelier team. 

With Abundant Grace, AFI Privé invites wearers to experience elevation—standing tall in garments that are as meaningful as they are elegant. It’s not just about clothing; it’s about presence, grace, and an unwavering sense of self-worth.

The AFI Privé Abundant Grace collection launches on 14 March 2025 at the House of Nala Sandton City store. The second drop of the collection will be available on 21 March 2025. The collection is also online.