Despite the initial criticism, Thebe Magugu said Orlando Pirates fans had come to like the unique Pirates kit.
World-renowned South African designer Thebe Magugu has revealed that he was hurt by the barrage he received for working with Adidas to design Orlando Pirates' 2023/2024 kit.
“I've been attacked thousands of times by Orlando Pirates fans saying how ugly the kit is and how I'm cursing the club,” Magugu said.
Just before the start of the season in July last year, the fashion designer, who works with Adidas and can be described as a modern artist, shared with fans on social media home and away kits featuring Buccaneers skulls and bones. .
@orlandopirates X @_ThebeMagugu_ × Adidas 23/24
The three powers combine to create the ultimate collaboration.
A collaboration that celebrates tradition and the relentless pursuit of success.
👀 – Available online and in stores from July 27th pic.twitter.com/ON3xJd8MMB— Adidas ZA (@adidasZA) July 11, 2023
Also read: Thebe Magugu designs Orlando Pirates kit, receives mixed reactions
“I poured months of research and work into this project, creating a series of images that are true to my own creative and aesthetic direction,” Magugu said in a recent interview with the US online publication. He spoke at Brené Brown.
The conversation touched on his vulnerabilities and inner struggles that come with being at the forefront of a global brand.
“It hurt, but I don’t think I could have been more proud of that jersey design.”
The German sports brand has been a technical sponsor of Pirates since 1997 and began working with Maggu in 2022 through a collaboration with Finding Beauty.
Also read: Thebe Magugu receives prestigious award at United Nations General Assembly Week in New York
change of heart
It's been a few months since this kit was released, and with mixed reactions, the kit seems to be growing among Pirates fans.
“Ironically, the same fans who saw the kit in person are now starting to send me apologetic messages, with most saying they weren't expecting it. People were simply experiencing the shock of something new. , that was a valuable insight for me,” Magugu asserted.
Responding to a question about how she deals with criticism, the Kimberley-born fashion designer said she is satisfied if her work is honest and informed.
“If I'm creating from an honest and informed place, and the only person I inherently want to impress is myself, then it's not something that started from a malicious place or to cause controversy. I know this, so I can always release my work with peace of mind.”
When asked about the role vulnerability plays in his work, Magugu said: “Through my work, I express all my dreams, fears, egos, and insecurities. It takes a certain level of comfort to be “seen'' that way. Creating work that truly speaks to the human condition. ”
Read now: Maela hopes Pirates' new jersey brings success
