Mmusi Maimane has been chosen as one of GQ Magazine’s Best-Dressed Men of the Year. Here he shares his style sensibility with Jason Basson
People generally view the world of design as being quite exclusive. What relevance does design have for the people of South Africa, be it in fashion, interiors or the public space?
Design has played an immense role in rebranding South Africa’s image, but also the way in which South Africans view themselves in relation to the rest of the world. We’ve seen awful pictures of our nation in the past, but the World Design Capital designation has really allowed us to punctuate that with the incredible moments of beauty that this nation has to offer. I think it has also had a therapeutic impact, especially for South Africa’s sense of creative ownership. We have a very unique story to share with the world.
If you could try your hand at design, what would you make?
I love buildings, actually. I like architectural design. Political history aside, the Union Buildings is perhaps among my favourites. I enjoy the vibrancy and sense of history that architecture evokes, so I would create something that can convey the contemporary South African story.
Do you think your personal style takes any inspiration from architecture?
When it comes to suiting, I definitely think more in terms of hard lines, or dominant shapes and colours. I’m trying to introduce more colour and flair into my life, but it doesn’t come naturally. I’m very structured and deliberate.
How can professional men use fashion to their advantage?
In a world where people are keen to be noticed, it’s certainly a great way to get your foot in the door. Of course there is a psychological component to style, so regardless of what industry you’re in, it’s important to be sensitive to your environment and to think what fashions or ‘uniforms’ will be most beneficial to the work at hand. This surprised me initially, but I have developed a preference for clothing that makes people feel like they have access to me. If my work takes me to the township, wearing a suit can alienate.
What is the importance of integrity in the business realm?
The thing to remember is that it’s not a career; it’s a cause. If there’s a disjuncture between your career objectives and the reasons you entered into it, you run the risk of undermining your values or being manipulated by other people. How I do my job is no different from how I raise my kids, or how I envision the world I want them to grow up in.
What are the core values you would encourage young entrepreneurs to seek out in their idols?
Certainly not the values of opulence. Success is not separated from the society it comes from. If you appreciate privilege, the real question is ‘what do I do with that?’ This is as important, if not more so, than success for its own sake.
People always end up dancing at political rallies. What’s your signature dance move?
The sprinkler, perhaps. When the chips are down, you’ve got to get down.
* This interview appears in the November issue of GQ magazine, on sale now. You’ll find the other Best-Dressed Men of the Year in this issue.