Designer Hermes Inocencio launches Summer 2026 collection “MANSA”, inspired by African king Mansa Musa, celebrating Black royalty and a powerful Africa.
African royalty as creative axis
The Summer 2026 “MANSA” collection takes its cue from the powerful African king Mansa Musa of the Mali Empire. In the Mandinka language, “Mansa” means “King of Kings”, or Emperor. With this reference, designer Hermes Inocencio invites a journey back to 14th-century Africa.
Mansa Musa is widely regarded as the richest man of the last millennium. He controlled Mali’s gold and precious stones, in a wealth said to be impossible to measure. However, he is also remembered for his generosity, territorial expansion and investments in culture, trade and education.
The designer stresses that the collection does not seek to tell the ruler’s full story. Mansa Musa serves as the inspirational channel for the creative process. The focus lies on celebrating Black people and portraying a majestic, influential Africa.
Celebrating Black power and royalty
The collection aims to break stereotypes that reduce Africa to savanna and poverty. Hermes wants to spark curiosity and foster research about the continent. In this way, he highlights royalty, sophistication and African power.
Each look values ancestry and Black representation. Symbolic references appear in colors, prints and accessories. The result is a narrative of a continent that is wealthy, cultured and historically central.
Wide, fluid and genderless silhouettes
In MANSA, silhouettes are mostly wide and comfortable. Several garments transform and can be worn in more than one way. The designer also bets on genderless pieces, such as high-waisted palazzo pants.
The color palette is dominated by earth tones, followed by yellow, orange and white. Light fabrics like satin, silk crepe, cotton and linen define the collection. Textures echo the summer mood while maintaining a refined, imperial feel.
Prints created by Hermes himself play a leading role. They portray a rich, powerful and vibrant Africa through shapes and graphic compositions. Thus, they connect history, identity and contemporary fashion.
Maximalist accessories fit for a king
Accessories follow a maximalist approach that reinforces the collection’s sense of luxury. Pearls, wood elements and abundant gold tones appear in jewelry and adornments. The styling clearly evokes the image of a modern African king.
The overall production underlines the authorial character of the project. Styling is signed by Hermes Inocencio, who aligns fashion, concept and visual storytelling. Each look expands the symbolic presence of Mansa Musa on the runway and in the images.
Cast, beauty and creative team
Actor Fábio Nascimento was chosen to embody the powerful King Mansa Musa of Mali in the campaign. Ali Sulman, an exclusive model for the brand, also stars in the imagery, reinforcing diversity and presence. Beauty direction is by Luiz Moreno, from Top Hair Ipanema.
Photography is by Daniel Pinheiro, who captures the regal and contemporary atmosphere of the collection. Fábio Nascimento is represented by Fabio Rios Agenciamento. Press and communications are handled by DG Assessoria e Comunicação.