Historic and Iconic

Congratulations FACE Member Beatrice Newman, educator and founder of the fashion brand Korlekie, for this historic and iconic image.

With 13+ years of design under her belt, Beatrice worked on this stunning cover with Gwen Madiba, Editor in Chief of Rolling Stone Africa. “Appointed to the post in June 2025 Gwen is a philanthropist,” says Beatrice, “she has supported myself and other African designers to be a part of this historic feature.”

“This cover acts as a cultural communion, tribute, bridge and celebration of Afro-descendant brilliance.

Ciara, known for her unique musical style, is the first African-American artist to grace the cover of Rolling Stone Africa, marking a new era for the magazine. “The dress Ciara is wearing illustrates a particular crochet method used in Victorian time called hairpin lace. The technique was slated to be too rudimentary for clothing at the time but I have honed the technique and it is part of the signature of my brand- Korlekie.”

“Seeing Ciara wear the dress on the cover of Rolling Stone Africa is a powerful affirmation of who we are as a brand: proudly rooted in African heritage, while also embracing the Western influences that shape our style and craftsmanship.”

“As a British-Ghanaian, this moment holds deep meaning for me,” says Beatrice. “This cover acts as a cultural communion, tribute, bridge and celebration of Afro-descendant brilliance. The complexities of diaspora often challenge our sense of belonging, where we’re expected to choose one identity over another, or have our cultural ties questioned or diminished. Seeing Ciara wear the dress on the cover of Rolling Stone Africa is a powerful affirmation of who we are as a brand: proudly rooted in African heritage, while also embracing the Western influences that shape our style and craftsmanship.”

About the brand.

Korlekie is a luxury fashion brand rooted in craftsmanship, heritage, and innovation. The name Korlekie, derived from the Ga-Adangbe tribe of Ghana, means "Queen of Eagles", symbolising power, vision, and regality. Known for its intricate textile work and signature hairpin lace crochet, the brand fuses traditional techniques with contemporary silhouettes to create bold, story-rich garments. With a focus on slow fashion and purposeful design, Korlekie celebrates the beauty of culture, womanhood, and detail.

Credits-

@korlekie

@gwenmadiba

@rollingstoneafrica