As audiences continue to embrace Dear Sis Dolly in cinemas nationwide, one of the film’s most celebrated elements is its vivid recreation of the timeless style that defined Sophiatown’s golden era and the legendary Drum magazine generation.
From elegant tailored dresses and refined silhouettes to meticulously crafted African hairstyles, Dear Sis Dolly transports viewers to a time when fashion was more than clothing; it was a powerful expression of identity, resilience, culture and pride.
Leading this visual celebration are unforgettable performances by Didintle Khunou as Khethiwe, whose wardrobe captures the confidence and elegance of young Black women navigating an exciting yet challenging era. Equally captivating is Sthandiwe Kgorogeas “MM” Makaringe, whose sophisticated vintage ensembles embody the grace, influence and determination of women who shaped their communities. Veteran actress Abigail Kubeka, who portrays Koko, brings authenticity and warmth to the screen through costumes and styling that honour the wisdom and dignity of African matriarchs. Together with the rest of the ensemble cast, each character’s wardrobe has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the social realities, aspirations and cultural richness of the time.
Dear Sis Dolly director Twiggy Matiwana said the production team viewed costume and hairstyling as essential storytelling tools. “Every costume and every hairstyle had to honour the women who lived through this remarkable period. We wanted audiences to feel as though they had stepped into the early Drum magazine era and the vibrant streets of Sophiatown, where fashion, music, journalism and culture came together to shape a generation. Authenticity was at the heart of every creative decision.” She added that extensive research informed the film’s visual identity. “The clothing does more than recreate a period; it reflects the confidence, ambition and resilience of the people who wore it. We wanted to celebrate African elegance while paying tribute to the women whose style became part of our country’s cultural heritage.”
Complementing the wardrobe is a striking showcase of classic African hairstyles that defined the era. From beautifully sculpted natural looks to elegant updos and styles inspired by the 1950s and 1960s, the hair design pays tribute to generations of Black women who used fashion and grooming as powerful statements of beauty, identity and self-expression. Every costume, fabric, accessory and hairstyle contributes to the film’s authenticity, immersing audiences in a world inspired by the vibrant streets of Sophiatown; a place synonymous with creativity, music, journalism, fashion and political consciousness.
“The film’s attention to historical detail not only enhances its visual appeal but also preserves an important chapter of South African cultural history for a new generation of viewers. Through its costume and hair design, Dear Sis Dolly celebrates the enduring influence of African fashion while honouring the women whose style helped define an era,” said Peter Vundla, executive producer. He added that the film revives an era synonymous with sophistication, confidence and cultural pride, using wardrobe and hairstyling to tell a story that extends beyond the script.
More than a nostalgic journey, Dear Sis Dolly reminds audiences that fashion has long been a powerful form of storytelling, capturing the hopes, dreams and resilience of people determined to celebrate their identity despite the social and political challenges of their time. The film is currently showing in cinemas nationwide, as well as in Namibia, Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Dear Sis Dolly, directed by Twiggy Matiwana and written by Makganwana Mokgalong, is a tribute to community, self-love and the enduring cultural legacy of Drum magazine’s iconic agony aunt column. The film is brought to life by a remarkable ensemble cast of South African screen talent, led by award-winning actress Didintle Khunou. The ensemble includes S’thandiwe Kgoroge as Drum magazine’s editor-in-chief, Dineo Langa as Sis Dolly’s best friend, Natasha Thahane as her chief rival, Brighton Ngoma as a nerdy IT specialist, and legendary performers Jerry Mofokeng wa Makhetha and Abigail Kubeka, among others. It is produced by Tshepiso Chikapa Phiri, Moroba Nkawe and Joel Chikapa Phiri of Known Associates Entertainment, with advertising legend Peter Vundla as executive producer.
