From drip to dazzle: Thembinkosi Lorch's fashion game is a goal

Move over, Cristiano Ronaldo and step aside, David Beckham - there’s a new style king in town, and he goes by the name of Thembinkosi Lorch. 

Whether you know him as “Nyoso” or simply as one of South Africa’s most talented footballers, one thing is certain: Lorch is claiming his spot on the global fashion stage, one fit at a time. 

If you’re among his hundreds of thousands of followers on Instagram, you already know what time it is - Lorch isn’t just serving skills on the field, he’s serving serious looks off it. 

As we say in isiZulu, “uyawudla ukotini” (loosely translated as “this person can dress”). 

Trendy and dapper, these two words sum up Lorch’s off-field image.

Since his move to Morocco to join Wydad Athletic Club (on loan from Mamelodi Sundowns), the footballer has not missed a beat when it comes to maintaining - or even elevating - his fashion game.  

Lorch has mastered the art of blending high fashion with everyday cool. He has a knack for making luxury fashion feel accessible and aspirational. 

His fashion choices are never boring - bold prints, designer sneakers and playful accessories are staples in his wardrobe. 

His signature look often includes standout pieces like chunky chains, statement watches and trendy bucket hats. 

But it’s not just what he wears - it’s how he wears it. There’s a confidence, a swagger, that’s uniquely Lorch. 

His streetwear is elevated by immaculate attention to detail. Whether he’s wearing a simple white tee or a fully branded Gucci set, Lorch always adds that final touch - whether it’s a limited-edition sneaker or an unexpected pop of colour - to tie the look together. 

One viral moment that had fashion lovers talking was when he posted a snap of himself wearing the Gucci Supreme Ace Mickey Mouse sneakers, a beige pair that retails for around $720 (R10 700).

The sneakers were part of Gucci’s Lunar New Year capsule collection, celebrating the Year of the Rat - a stylish nod to Mickey and Minnie Mouse.

But that’s not where the Gucci obsession ends. Scroll through his timeline and you’ll spot a growing collection: from hats and tees to belts, bags and classic kicks. 

One of the most refreshing things about Lorch’s fashion is his versatility. He doesn’t confine himself to a single look. One day it’s tailored formalwear, the next, it’s ripped jeans, sneakers and bucket hats. 

His evolving style has not only won him fans across Africa but is also setting new standards for how athletes can express themselves off the pitch. 

Inspired? Here are five ways to style luxury wear the street way - Lorch style: 

• Pair a designer shirt or jacket with plain jeans and classy sneakers for a balanced street-luxury look. 
• Let your kicks do the talking. Invest in one bold, branded sneaker and build your outfit around it.
• Add chains, watches, bucket hats or branded caps to your wardrobe to elevate even the most basic outfit. Details make the difference.
• Lorch often rocks neutral tones with a single standout accessory. Try an all-black outfit with a bright bag or hat to channel that effortless cool.
• Don’t shy away from eye-catching prints. Match them with solid neutrals or clash them boldly. Luxury fashion today is all about fearlessness.