ethnik republik ltd.
an afrocentric, genderless clothing brand reimagining traditional african clothing and redefining fashion — merging bespoke and ready-to-wear designs, blurring the lines between menswear and womenswear without sacrificing style and craftsmanship.
about ethnik
ethnik republik ltd. is an afrocentric, genderless clothing brand, reimagining traditional african clothing and redefining fashion by merging bespoke and ready-to-wear designs, blurring the lines between menswear and womenswear clothing without sacrificing style and craftsmanship.
by blending traditional african aesthetics with urban streetwear and celebrating the vibrant queer+ community, ethnik republik creates clothing that inspires confidence, pride, and authenticity — creating garments that are bold, inclusive, and rooted in culture. at our core, we believe fashion is more than style — it's a form of self-expression, a voice, and a celebration of identity.
from bespoke casual suits and special-occasion customwear to curated, trans-seasonal streetwear, ethnik republik champions quality, functionality, and expression. we prioritize sustainable practices, using mostly 100% natural, low-impact materials and locally produced fabrics — rich textures like shweshwe, cotton, linen, and upcycled denim, woven with intention and story.
our designs are a tribute to
the vibrancy of african heritage — the spirit of queer+ communities — the edge of urban streetwear
what we stand for
visibility
creating clothing that allows you to take up space, be seen, and be fully yourself.
cultural pride
celebrating african heritage through bold aesthetics and contemporary design — a tribute to the vibrancy of our roots.
authenticity
designing garments as both armour and art — celebrating strength, softness, and resistance.
craftsmanship
merging traditional techniques with modern innovation, using natural, low-impact materials and locally produced fabrics.
community
fostering belonging through fashion — creating space for those often left out of the narrative.
expression
empowering our clients to define themselves on their own terms — individuality, confidence, and freedom in every piece.
behind the name
a community bound by shared roots
ethnik
[eth-nik]
“the characteristics of people sharing a common and distinctive culture.”
republik
[ri-puhb-lik]
“a community in which power resides in the people.”
together, ethnik republik represents a community of unique individuals bound by shared roots and radical self-expression. we are a movement, not just a brand — fostering belonging through fashion and creating space for those often left out of the narrative.
through design, collaboration, and storytelling, we aim to build bridges: between tradition and modernity, identity and artistry, culture and confidence. we champion emerging creatives, celebrate our african roots, and invite the world to experience fashion as a vehicle for unity and transformation.
about the founder
lerato roy montsi
founder & creative director
eastern cape-born, self-taught designer, seamstress, and fashion entrepreneur with a background in television broadcast technology and project management — and a deep-rooted love for fashion and everything art.
“fashion has always been part of my life. raised by a needlework & clothing teacher, i began making my own clothes at a very young age. as i grew, so did my need for representation — i couldn't find gender-neutral, well-fitting pieces for my full-figured, tomboy-chic style. so, i began creating them. ethnik republik was born from that personal necessity and evolved into a brand for anyone who's ever felt unseen by the fashion industry.”
under lerato's leadership, ethnik republik has become a platform for bold stories, authentic style, and cultural celebration — a republic where everyone has the freedom to define themselves.
be seen. be yourself.
discover our collection of afrocentric, gender-neutral clothing and accessories designed for unapologetic expression.
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