South Africa’s most stylish creatives, cultural icons and industry leaders were honoured at an intimate celebration ahead of the 28th edition of the SA Style Awards

The SA Style Awards 2026 winners took centre stage at an exclusive high tea on Wednesday, 21 October 2026. Hosted in partnership with Versus Paint and Southern Sun Hyde Park, the occasion celebrated some of South Africa’s most influential personalities across fashion, entertainment, media, business and the creative industries.

Ahead of the prestigious awards’ 28th edition, the intimate gathering brought together this year’s winners, their partners and select media guests for an afternoon dedicated to individuality, achievement and exceptional style.

The celebrations began at Graham’s Contemporary Art Gallery in Hyde Park Corner, where guests were welcomed with chilled glasses of KRONE Cap Classique. The festivities then moved to the Southern Sun Hyde Park Hotel for an elegant high tea overlooking the Sandton skyline.

With gilt birdcages, flickering candles and carefully curated table settings, the venue provided a sophisticated backdrop as guests enjoyed an afternoon of conversation, celebration and spectacular sunset views.

Meet the SA Style Awards 2026 Winners

Hosted by presiding judge Craig Jacobs, the afternoon introduced the SA Style Awards Class of 2026, recognising individuals whose creativity, influence and achievements continue to shape South Africa’s cultural landscape.

Selected by a panel of 30 distinguished judges, this year’s honourees represent a diverse mix of established icons, emerging talent and influential changemakers.

The SA Style Awards 2026 winners are:

  • Most Innovative Style: Li-Chi Pan and Neo Mofammere

  • Most Stylish in Music: Thabsie

  • Most Stylish Performing Artist in TV/Film: Thabang Molaba

  • Most Stylish Media Personalities – Print: Nontando Mposo and Emmanuel Tjiya

  • Most Stylish in Broadcast Media: Abigail Visagie

  • Most Stylish Model: Brian Whitby

  • Most Stylish Designer: Vusumuzi Ndima, also known as Bob the Stylist

  • Most Stylish in Business: Rechelle Kloeck

  • Most Stylish Changemaker: Catherine Constantinides

  • Next Big Thing: Ayanda G Thabethe

  • Style Icon: Thandiswa Mazwai

From acclaimed musician Thandiswa Mazwai to rising creative talents and industry innovators, the Class of 2026 reflects the depth of talent and individuality defining contemporary South African style.

A Stylish Couple Award with a Twist

Adding a playful element to the afternoon, Craig Jacobs introduced Sashi Naidoo and Ryan Hignett as the place-card couple for the Stylish Couple Award.

Guests and fellow winners were invited to cast their votes for the couple they believed had made the greatest impact, bringing an interactive dimension to the celebrations.

The moment reinforced the spirit of the SA Style Awards, where style extends beyond fashion to encompass personality, influence and the way individuals express themselves.

Luxury Details and Thoughtful Gifting

The afternoon concluded with a selection of gifts that reflected the occasion’s emphasis on luxury and considered detail.

Guests received Sorbet hand creams, Ooh La La treats and signature scented candles from Versus Paint, one of the event’s partners.

Another highlight was a prize draw for a stay at the exclusive Elysian Villa in Llandudno, valued at R85,000 per night, courtesy of Cape Luxury Reservations.

The luxury hospitality company also presented the winners with its signature room spray, offering a final touch of indulgence to the afternoon.

Celebrating 28 Editions of South African Style

As the SA Style Awards prepares for its 28th edition, the 2026 winners demonstrate that true style is about far more than appearance.

It is found in creative expression, innovation, cultural influence and the confidence to challenge convention.

The Hyde Park high tea provided an opportunity to recognise the individuals contributing to South Africa’s evolving creative identity, while bringing together personalities from across the country’s fashion, media, entertainment and business communities.

With another distinguished class of winners announced, the SA Style Awards continues its tradition of celebrating the people who define style on their own terms.

Photography: Zebra Square

Read more in Bianca Emmerick’s article: The Art of Being Iconic