Artclub and Friends has announced the launch of their latest Autumn/Winter collection: Crescendo. A term most commonly found in the world of music, “crescendo” means a gradual increase in intensity. A concept that captures not just the tone of this collection, but the very moment that Artclub finds itself in now – in its 9th year, the independent design studio steps confidently into their next act.
Born from a conversation inside the studio and amplified through a collaboration with Cape Town jazz ensemble Kujenga, Crescendo is both a metaphor and a mission. Like the steady build-up in a musical composition, this collection represents a climactic chapter in Artclub’s journey and Kujenga’s, intertwining sound and style in celebration of creative momentum. Crescendo is for artists, thinkers, and celebrators. It’s for gallery nights, last songs, performances and pause-worthy everyday moments. Designed to be worn and lived in, the collection embodies anticipation, joy, and a deep sense of self.
All imagery courtesy of Artclub and Friends
Unlike traditional fashion houses, Artclub operates more like a jazz session than a boardroom. Crescendo was shaped in studios, on balconies, during rehearsals and everyday moments with its creative community. Director Royd Ringdahl, photographer Tseliso Monaheng, Kujenga, as well as local manufacturers all brought their unique voices into the room. The result is a collection that feels deeply communal.
The collection features 30 original pieces, each designed with intention, wearability, and movement in mind. From soft tailoring to expressive silhouettes, Crescendo is a full expression of the studio’s evolving creative language. Garments reference the structure of instruments, with brushstroke motifs, soundwave-inspired pleats, and textures that mimic tempo. Think midnight blues, brass, and deep embers. Silhouettes are built for motion, just like the people they’re made for.
Inspired by jazz, improvisation, repetition, and rhythm, the collection is also shaped by the visual poetry of Santu Mofokeng, the structural storytelling of Kofi Ofosu-Yeboah, and cultural moments like Tyla’s rise on the global stage. Crescendo is less commentary and more celebratory.
Every collection supports more than just aesthetics. This season, Artclub supported Kujenga in recording and releasing previously unreleased music. Garments were created in close collaboration with local manufacturers, many of whom have partnered with the brand for years. Each is considered part of the studio’s extended artistic ecosystem.
Following their successful collaboration with Mr Price, Artclub proved that scale need not dilute purpose. Crescendo continues this ethos: design without compromise, access without erasure. With full creative control, the team reaffirmed their mission to uplift African artistry at every level.
From humble beginnings in 2016 to now, Crescendo marks Artclub’s most expansive creative leap. No longer just surviving, they are composing. The studio is clearer than ever on its mission: to grow, stay rooted, and serve as a platform for global, intentional design from Africa.
All imagery courtesy of Artclub and Friends
Shop Crescendo here
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Creative Credits:
Photography by Tseliso Monaheng (@melanateyourmood)
Director: Royd Ringdahl (@roydr_)
DOP: Vahid Davids (@vahiddavids)
Editor: Luke Veysie (@luke_veysie )
Grade: Daniel de Villiers (@danielde.villiers)
Sound: Concept Records (@concept_records)
Press release courtesy of Artclub and Friends
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