Lesotho’s King and Queen were among the high-profile VIP attendees at the inauguration of the 6th President of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, this past Wednesday. For attendees, such high-profile events have become an opportunity to promote local artisans, from designers to accessory makers.
At this year’s ceremony, guests chose a mix of traditional attire and sleek formal wear, moving away from the theatrics often critiqued at events like the state of the nation address. While some attendees opted for understated fashion choices, others embraced more flamboyant styles, a balance that can be delicate in South Africa’s sociopolitical climate.
Queen Masenate Mohato Seeiso of Lesotho struck this balance perfectly with her cobalt blue ensemble, designed by local designer Karabelo Raletebele. The outfit combined the boldness favored by many stylists with the minimal glamour appropriate for a formal ceremony.
According to TimesLive, “She brought bold shapes, accentuating her figure in a manner that is not overly cinched and looks comfortable. Her satellite fascinator is already a spectacle, so she opts for a simple bow in black rather than feathers and layers of tulle…”
The Lesotho Tribune caught up with Karabelo Raletebele, the designer behind the head-turning dress.
“My name is Karabelo Raletebele. I was born on February 15, 1993, the fifth child of my parents in the small town of Thaba-Tseka. I attended primary and high school there. Growing up as a very dark-skinned girl wasn’t easy, especially among light-skinned girls. I had zero confidence. My family moved to Maseru in 2010, and that’s when I discovered my passion for fashion. After matric, I told my parents I wanted to study fashion and design. They didn’t understand why at the time, but now they do. To me, fashion is a way of communicating confidence without having to say, ‘I am confident.’ It gives me pleasure to help women who judge themselves by the world’s beauty standards.”
“I graduated from IBC College with a diploma in fashion and design in 2014. In 2015, a few ladies and I tried to start a company, but it failed within six months. Later that year, I got a job but was fired within three weeks. I was depressed and didn’t know what direction to take. I was taught how to design, not how to run a business. One day, I discovered Lesotho Online Market and advertised a few of my items there. I got two clients by the end of 2015, and a few more by the end of 2016. I continued using Lesotho Online Market to advertise my business. By 2017/2018, it started to look promising. People noticed my work, and clients kept coming. I thank God for it.”
“Towards the end of 2023, I received a message from Her Majesty, Queen Masenate, asking me to make an outfit for her. She loved my work. It took passion, consistency, and a lot of patience to get where I am today, and the road is still long.”
Karabelo Raletebele’s journey is a testament to the resilience and talent found in Lesotho. Her work not only elevates local fashion but also instills confidence and pride in those who wear her designs. This is what it means to love one’s country—through dedication, creativity, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence.
