BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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Streetwear culture is thriving, and two heavyweights–Zlatan to the World (ZTTW) and Thirsty–are taking it to new heights with an electrifying pop-up tour. The fashion-forward brands, both known for their edgy, culture-defining aesthetics, are set to touch down in Cape Town, South Africa, on April 5th and 6th, marking the first stop in their highly anticipated 2025 pop-up series.
The Rare Gallery, located at 6 Watson Street, Cape Town, will serve as ground zero for this exclusive event, where streetwear enthusiasts and fashion lovers will get the chance to experience the latest in urban fashion, immerse themselves in the culture, and possibly interact with Zlatan himself. But this is just the beginning–Johannesburg, Abuja, Lagos, Accra, London, Paris, Atlanta, Houston, New York, Toronto, and Dubai are also on the list, with dates to be announced soon.
For those familiar with Nigeria’s Zlatan Ibile, his impact extends far beyond music. With ZTTW, the artist has successfully translated his vibrant, high-energy persona into a streetwear movement that blends Afro-urban aesthetics with global street culture. ZTTW has become synonymous with bold graphics, high-quality materials, and a rebellious attitude that mirrors Zlatan’s own fearless approach to music and fashion.
On the other side of this collaboration is Thirsty, a brand that has been making waves with its distinctive take on streetwear. Founded in Nigeria by Straffitti, Thirsty has become one of Lagos’ leading streetwear labels. Straffitti, a multifaceted artist, producer, graphic designer, and fashion visionary, established Thirsty as a highly sought-after name in urban fashion, seamlessly blending contemporary trends with raw, unfiltered creativity. The brand’s aesthetic is defined by bold statements, limited-edition releases, and a rebellious spirit that challenges traditional fashion norms.
This isn’t their first rodeo together. Past collaborations between ZTTW and Thirsty have seen successful pop-ups in Lagos and Cape Town, drawing massive crowds and reinforcing their position as top-tier streetwear curators. The previous editions delivered exclusive drops, live interactions, and an electrifying atmosphere that blurred the line between fashion and culture. Given their track record, their upcoming South African takeover is bound to be even bigger.
South Africa has long been a melting pot of street fashion, blending influences from hip-hop, skate culture, and African heritage. Cape Town, in particular, has a thriving streetwear community, making it the perfect city to kick off this 2025 pop-up series. The choice of Rare Gallery as the venue further adds a premium feel to the event, ensuring that attendees not only shop exclusive pieces but also engage in an immersive cultural experience.
Attendees can look forward to exclusive drops, as the pop-up will feature limited-edition ZTTW x Thirsty pieces that won’t be available anywhere else. This is a rare opportunity for streetwear enthusiasts to grab something truly unique, straight from the heart of two powerhouse brands. Beyond just the fashion, the event will serve as a cultural crossover, merging music, art, and street fashion in a way that reflects the creative spirit of both brands. The fusion of these elements will create an experience that goes beyond shopping–this is about being part of a lifestyle and movement.
There’s also the exciting possibility of celebrity appearances. Given Zlatan’s deep ties to the entertainment industry, it wouldn’t be surprising to see some major names in African music and pop culture dropping by. Previous pop-ups have drawn influential figures, and this one could follow the same trend.
With South Africa as the first battleground, ZTTW and Thirsty are sending a clear message–the streetwear scene is about to witness something monumental. If their past collaborations are anything to go by, this pop-up tour will redefine what it means to be part of streetwear culture.
Mark your calendars-hApril 5th-6th, Rare Gallery, Cape Town. If you’re a true streetwear enthusiast, this is one event you don’t want to miss.
