Managing editor at “Dossier Magazine”, Leon Haasbroek, and Sun Goddess co-founder and creative director, Vanya Mangaliso, offered their opinions on some of the evening's most talked-about looks.

Both are acknowledged as influential voices in South African fashion.

Minister of Tourism and Good party leader Patricia de Lille went for a classic, structured look that had some people nodding in approval and others … well, wanting more.

Mangaliso thought it was chic but a bit too safe: “The colours complement each other beautifully, and the print isn’t overwhelming for her frame. The vibe is very classic with a modern twist.

“But it doesn’t say anything about our country - she could be from anywhere. It even gives a bit of Dior New Look energy.”

Haasbroek, on the other hand, loved it: “Amazing! I think the colour palette works perfectly. Navy is going to be a big colour in 2025.”

Minister of Tourism and Good party leader Patricia de Lille at the SONA 2025 red carpet. Picture: X/@Tourism_gov_za

Papa Penny, who is now an MK Party MP, didn’t come to play. The man rocked up in a blue and gold suit, topped off with gold shoes, of course.

Haasbroek was all about the texture: “Texture is my thing! The colours work, but it would’ve looked even better in black and gold.”

Mangaliso had a lot to say: “He’s a South African dandy through and through, and we’ll always celebrate a man who has this much fun with fashion. Papa Penny owns every red carpet he steps on, and his commitment to his over-the-top brand makes up for how repetitive his looks can be.”

But she didn’t hold back on her critique: “Who exactly is he representing here? Because it’s not South Africa, and it’s definitely not the Limpopo tribes that buy out his music and products. We wonder why that is?”

Oh, and for the record, she’s choosing to ignore the people calling him a “South African knock-off version of Michael Jackson” and those “Coming to America” comparisons. Y’all are shady!

Papa Penny on the SONA 2025 red carpet. Picture: Ian Landsberg.

Justice Minister Mmamoloko Nkhensani Kubayi brought colour and drama to the SONA carpet but was it giving Mzansi excellence? It was debatable.

Mangaliso appreciated the effort but side-eyed the styling: “The Nigerian headpiece is stunning, but it feels a bit out of place. It’s a great nod to the continent, but Nigerians watching would probably be more interested in what South Africa has to offer.”

As for the dress? “The fit isn’t the most flattering, and the fabric isn’t giving expensive - it’s giving loud and shiny. The mix of print and that blue satin isn’t quite working, and those ruffles? A little exaggerated. The best thing I can say? The blue is a very nice blue.”

Haasbroek was a little more diplomatic: “I love the overall design, but the colour is a bit all over the place. The headpiece is stunning, though! The bag? Not so much.”

Justice Minister Mmamoloko Nkhensani Kubayi SONA 2025 red carpet. Picture: Supplied.

One thing’s for sure: Mzansi will always have something to say about fashion, and we’re here for it!