Thuso Mbedu’s SAFTAs Look Was a Lesson in Understated Drama

All images: @Thuso_mbedu

The 19th Annual SAFTAs brought together South Africa’s finest in film and television, yet all eyes seemed to follow Thuso Mbedu. Known for her international roles in The Woman King and The Underground, and soon to appear in the 2027 release Children of Blood and Bone, she carries a rare blend of global acclaim and strong ties to South African storytelling.

Based in Los Angeles but back home for the SAFTAs and major local projects, she stepped out in two gowns that spoke without words. The black beaded gown at her red carpet entrance whispered echoes of familiar elegance, while the ruby-red stage gown pulsed with fresh, daring energy. Beads catching the light, the gentle curve of each silhouette, and the soft halo of her natural hair framed her in a quiet authority, a presence that drew attention without asking for it.

Mbedu took to the red carpet in a custom black beaded gown by B Mashilo designs, a floor-length masterpiece finished with a dramatic feather trim at the hem. The gown’s intricate beadwork caught every light, shimmering as she moved, while the feather detail added a touch of dreamy drama.

"Getting ready for moments like this is like putting on a character," Mbedu has said in past interviews. Indeed, this gown was her armor and her crown a sophisticated statement before the ceremony even began. The look was amplified by a sleek, sculpted updo by Kelvin Takudzwa, inspired by classical African braiding and structural art, keeping the focus on her striking features and the gown’s ornate neckline. Makeup by Noni Femi glowed subtly, enhancing her natural elegance without competing with the dress’s textures.

On stage for the awards presentation, Mbedu transformed into a vision of fiery opulence with a ruby red beaded gown, also by B Mashilo Designs.This mermaid-style dress was covered in beads and sequins, creating a shimmering effect that sparkled under the lights.The plunging V-neckline and sleeveless, architectural shoulders balanced drama with structure, perfectly complementing her figure.

Her hair evolved into her signature voluminous afro, a deliberate statement of South African pride and natural beauty. The halo effect of the hairstyle harmonized with the narrow silhouette of the gown, while her makeup remained luminous, letting the bold red hue take center stage. The ensemble came alive when she shared the stage with former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, creating a duo of elegance and poise that was impossible to ignore.

she smiled and joked about “rehearsing her lines” next to Zozibini, a quiet, natural charm softening the moment. Her ruby red gown shimmered under the lights, beads and sequins catching every glance. The mermaid hem flowed gently along the floor, while the structured shoulders and deep V-neck gave her movements a graceful authority. Each step highlighted the gown’s shape, the way it framed her figure and allowed her presence to shine. Even in small gestures, the dress seemed alive, a perfect complement to the elegance she carried across the stage.

Both of Mbedu's looks were designed by B Mashilo, whose designs draw inspiration from Ntwane heritage and the “Rich Auntie” aesthetic,celebrating elegance, power, and luxury rooted in culture. Every detail, from bead placement to silhouette, was intentional, marrying tradition with contemporary glamour. Her hair, styled by Kelvin Takudzwa, completed the vision with a soft, natural finish that framed her presence rather than competing with it.

Mbedu’s 19th SAFTA looks each told a story, each hairstyle highlighted her essence, and each pose radiated confidence. Through texture, colour, and silhouette, she showed how fashion can be both an art form and an extension of personal identity