Katlego Tefu is the kind of creative force who makes style feel both aspirational andattainable. With a keen eye for effortless fashion, a love for beauty rooted in authenticity, and an ever-growing digital community, the Johannesburg-based content creator has carved a niche as a trusted voice for the stylish, self-assured South African woman. Whether she’s sharing budget-friendly outfit ideas, walking red carpets as a fashion correspondent, or breaking down natural hair care myths one reel at a time, Katlego’s presence is warm, confident, and quietly radical.
Her Instagram feed (@katlego_tefu) is a masterclass in relatable elegance — think easy layering, soft glam, and hair content that speaks directly to the modern Black woman navigating her own beauty journey. She’s collaborated with brands like Levi’s, Ingram’s, Poetry, and H&M, and most recently jetted off to Paris Fashion Week with TRESemmé to witness MAXHOSA Africa’s moment on the global stage.
In this exclusive interview, Katlego gets candid about identity, evolving beauty standards, and the hair hacks every girl should know. But most of all, she reminds us that true style — like self-love — starts from within.
You jetted off to Paris Fashion Week with TRESemmé earlier this year — a major moment! What was it like witnessing MAXHOSA Africa’s showcase in such a global fashion capital?
It honestly felt like a dream. Every content creator hopes to reach certain milestones, and for me, attending Paris Fashion Week was huge. I felt so proud to witness two incredible brands come together to showcase South Africa’s creative talent on such a global stage. There was a deep sense of belonging — because, as a Black woman and a South African, some spaces don’t always feel accessible. Yet, there I was. I was overflowing with gratitude. Watching MAXHOSA cement its name made me see just how far my own talents could take me.
Your content always feels effortless yet elevated. What inspired your personal style and hair journey, and how has that evolved over the years?
My style has always been an expression of whichever version of me I’m becoming. Like most people, I’m multifaceted, and my fashion reflects that. But over time, I’ve noticed a consistent theme — the cool factor. That’s definitely something I carry into my hair choices too. My natural hair journey has stretched my imagination, pushing me to rethink society’s beauty standards and redefine what beauty means to me.
As someone who’s become a trusted voice in beauty and hair, what’s one hair rule you swear by — and one you think we should all ditch?
Natural hair and water? Best combo ever. I know it’s controversial — especially if you grew up with relaxers and were told to avoid water — but daily hydration and weekly washes are a must for me. As for what we should ditch? Anything that makes your hair journey harder than it needs to be. No, you don’t have to braid your hair every night. No, you don’t have to define your curls every single time. And no, you don’t have to fear heat! Let go of standards that damage your relationship with your hair. Work withyour hair, not against it.
From sleek buns to fluffy afros, you’ve done it all. What are your top 3 go-to hair products or tools every girl should have in her kit?
A spray bottle, a good hair mask, and a steaming cap — essentials! I’ll sneak in a fourth: a trusted hairstylist. I don’t do all my hairstyles myself, and neither should you. Like I said earlier, let go of what makes your journey harder. Sometimes, that means leaving things to the professionals!
Hair and identity are so deeply intertwined. How do you use your platforms to explore or challenge beauty standards, especially for Black women?
I chose to wear my natural hair — shrinkage and all — most of the time to challenge my own beliefs about beauty. And that choice has inspired others to find beauty in themselves, too. My hair doesn’t need to be curled to appear in a campaign, just like you don’t have to change a single thing about yourself to belong. I think we’re all searching for belonging, and I found mine through loving my hair. Self-love might start off aesthetic, but it can lead to the most radical, life-changing revelations.
We’re dying to know — what’s a hair tip or trick that completely changed the game for you, but most people overlook?
Never let your hair get dry and brittle. I spritz it daily with water, use leave-in conditioners, deep condition weekly, and sleep on silk pillowcases — even when I travel. There are so many myths about Black hair, but I truly believe all hair is work. I just give mine the care and attention it deserves, like any other hairstyle.
You’ve built a brand that’s as bold as it is intentional. What’s next for Katlego Tefu — any new projects, brand collabs, or dream moves on the horizon?
I’m incredibly blessed to have some amazing collaborations lined up this year. I’m especially excited to be part of the very first Creme of Nature squad — I can’t wait to help introduce the brand to South Africa and have fun with the girls! Dream-wise? I’d love to become a beauty writer — the “Sis Dolly” of hair in print media. And my biggest goal? Launching my own brand before the year ends.
Lastly, for readers trying to elevate their hair game this season, what’s your advice for stepping out with confidence — edges laid or not?
Not! [laughs] I want the girls to break out of the mould and try something new. That’s how you elevate not just your look, but your mindset. And honestly, give your edges a break! Before you finish them off completely, give them room to breathe.
