Possibly one of the most fashionably debonair men in Johannesburg, Theo Ngobeni of bespoke fashion house Mr.Slimfit, dresses some of the country’s most powerful business titans. He tells Lesley Mofokeng that fashion and style have become more than tailored suits, but an experience, hence the Mr.Grapeful venture that mixes fashion and wine.
- How has your entrepreneurship journey been so far?
My journey has been one of passion, resilience, and continuous learning. Transitioning from investment banking to the fashion industry was a bold move, but my love for style and personal branding fuelled my vision for Mr.Slimfit. Over the years, I’ve built more than just a clothing brand—I’ve created a lifestyle experience that merges luxury fashion with refined living. The journey has been filled with challenges, but also incredible growth and opportunities to redefine how people approach personal style.
- What has been the toughest business lesson you learnt?
I’ve learned that passion alone is not enough—structure, financial discipline, and strategic planning are essential for sustainability. When I started, I focused primarily on the creative and branding aspects, but I quickly realised that mastering the numbers, managing cash flow, and building solid operational systems were just as critical.
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- What business principles do you live by?
Excellence and consistency: Always deliver the highest quality and never compromise on standards.
Customer-centric approach: Understand and anticipate the needs of your clients to create unforgettable experiences.
Innovation and adaptability: The business landscape evolves, and staying ahead requires constant innovation and reinvention.
- How has the business of fashion and styling evolved since you started, and how has that impacted what you do?
Fashion has become more personalised and experience-driven. Clients no longer just want a well-tailored suit; they want a full lifestyle experience that aligns with their identity. Social media and digital platforms have also changed how people interact with brands, making storytelling and personal branding more crucial. This shift has inspired me to incorporate lifestyle elements like grooming, wine and whiskey experiences into Mr.Slimfit, elevating the brand beyond just clothing.
- What are the 3 things every entrepreneur needs to survive business?
Resilience: The road is tough, and setbacks are inevitable. The ability to push through is crucial.
Strong network and relationships: Business is built on trust and connections; who you know can be crucial in business.
Financial intelligence: Understanding cash flow, pricing, and sustainable growth is non-negotiable.
- How has your faith influenced your decision-making?
My faith has been my anchor, especially in times of uncertainty. Entrepreneurship is a journey of risk and belief, and my faith has given me the strength to make bold decisions, trust the process, and stay grounded even when things don’t go as planned. It also guides my values in business: integrity, humility, and a commitment to excellence.
- What have been the challenges and opportunities of running Mr.Slimfit?
One major challenge has been scaling the business while maintaining the exclusivity and high standards that define the brand. The pandemic also forced us to rethink our strategy and embrace digital platforms more aggressively. However, these challenges have also presented opportunities, such as expanding our offering into lifestyle experiences, collaborating with other luxury brands, and tapping into new markets beyond South Africa.
- What has been your lowest point in business and your highest?
The lowest point was in the early years when I underestimated the financial demands of running a bespoke fashion business. There were moments when cash flow was tight, and I had to make tough decisions to keep the business afloat. The highest point has been seeing Mr.Slimfit become a recognised luxury brand, dressing high-profile clients, and creating an experience-driven brand that goes beyond just fashion.
- What’s the most precious accolade you have received and why?
Every recognition means something special to me. However, one of the most fulfilling moments has been seeing our clients wear a Mr.Slimfit suits on international stages with confidence. It reinforced the impact of what we do: helping people look and feel their best.
- What are your projections for the future?
For Mr.Slimfit, I want to expand our reach globally while maintaining our exclusivity. We are working on more lifestyle-driven experiences and strategic collaborations. Mr.Grapeful is growing into a platform that merges luxury fashion with wine culture, and I’m excited to see where that goes. On a personal level, I aim to inspire more entrepreneurs, share my journey, and build a legacy that blends business, style, and culture.
