ENTER THE LAB EPISODE 11: ANITA HLAZO
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Article
“ENTER THE LAB” is the content series where we showcase the talented, innovative and expressive individuals within our community.
The aim is to connect with the person in front of the camera beyond just the imagery. The approach is both grand, portraying their personalities/uniqueness in a monumental style, while maintaining a personal element, revealing a side of them that viewers have never seen before.
Anita Hlazo, founder and designer of Afrogrunge, is the creative force behind a brand that beautifully blends the energy of black culture with the rebellious spirit of grunge. What began as a personal quest for representation soon evolved into Afrogrunge, a label driven by her passion for self-expression, inclusivity, and authenticity.
With a gentle determination, Anita carved out Afrogrunge as more than just a clothing brand—it became a space for her to channel her creativity and share her unique vision with the world.
"Start on your ideas, document the process, and always go back to your WHY."
Afrogrunge is Anita’s love letter to the eclectic and the unconventional. She began documenting her style on Tumblr while still a student, and her early collaborations with photographers like the late Ben Moyo laid the foundation for the brand’s identity.
The brand has collaborated with renowned artists such as Moonchild Sanelly, Thandeka Mfinyongo, and Maglera Doe Boy and has appeared in celebrated publications like Cosmopolitan SA and Vogue Italia. Afrogrunge has graced the runways of South African Fashion Week and Menswear Week, all while staying grounded in its ethos of individuality and artistic freedom.
After working with Redbat to reimagine deadstock pieces, Anita turned her attention to creating one-of-a-kind garments from leftover materials.
The brand has collaborated with renowned artists such as Moonchild Sanelly, Thandeka Mfinyongo, and Maglera Doe Boy and has appeared in celebrated publications like Cosmopolitan SA and Vogue Italia. Afrogrunge has graced the runways of South African Fashion Week and Menswear Week, all while staying grounded in its ethos of individuality and artistic freedom.
After working with Redbat to reimagine deadstock pieces, Anita turned her attention to creating one-of-a-kind garments from leftover materials.
Every piece tells a story.
Afrogrunge now focuses on crafting patchwork pieces from its own production waste, reflecting Anita’s heartfelt commitment to sustainability. Her involvement in discussions on the circular economy, including her work with Twyg Magazine and her participation with Fashion Revolution, underscores her desire to leave a positive impact on the fashion industry.
The visual storytelling captures the spirit of those who aren’t afraid to break the mold, just as Anita herself did when she founded the brand six years ago. The brand continues to celebrate South African artistry, collaborating with names like Redbat, Shelflife, and TFG, and has even been exhibited at The NOW Gallery in London.
Advice for Young Designers:
Don’t feel pressured to conform to outside expectations, especially from larger brands or trends. Growth is important, but staying true to your identity is what will carry you forward.
The visual storytelling captures the spirit of those who aren’t afraid to break the mold, just as Anita herself did when she founded the brand six years ago. The brand continues to celebrate South African artistry, collaborating with names like Redbat, Shelflife, and TFG, and has even been exhibited at The NOW Gallery in London.
Advice for Young Designers:
Don’t feel pressured to conform to outside expectations, especially from larger brands or trends. Growth is important, but staying true to your identity is what will carry you forward.
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