Somizi Did it First

Billy Porter "borrowed" his look

By ZAlebs | 22.06.2020 | Somizi Mhlongo | Fashion Last Updated On 04.06.2026

Somizi Did it First
Somizi just wants the world to know that although Billy Porter certainly pulled off a bold and beautiful Oscars Red Carpet outfit – it was done here in Mzansi first!

The 2019 Academy Awards – AKA the Oscars – have given us plenty to talk about from a South African point of view. Trevor’s inside joke (which is no longer so inside), Anele and her incredible coverage and now Somizi’s playful “I wore it first” declaration.

American actor, Billy Porter (I mean, what other nationality could he be with a name like that?) has topped many of the “Best Dressed” lists from this year’s Oscars ceremony but Somizi was on hand to remind people that he wore a similar outfit first; at the 2018 Feather Awards.

Somizi took to Instagram to say: 

“Woooooo shemmmm I’m a trend blazer and setter. Bi#th stole my look. And he stole good. This is super amazing. Billy Porter,”

He has a point too. Take a look at the dresses side by side:

View this post on Instagram

They are both fashion forward, daring and magnificent pieces of work (although I’ll leave full critique to my more experienced fashion colleague, Red!) and this wouldn’t be the first time that an international artist has borrowed from their South African counterpart.

Kanye West definitely borrowed a few pages out of the Cassper Nyovest playbook:

While Nicki Minaj fans will definitely see where she drew the inspiration for this music video:

Somizi is as fashion forward as they come and we aren’t the least bit surprised that he inspired such a look!

Read More: [VIDEO] Somizi And Thami Dish Flex On The Masses

Main Image Credit: Entertainment Tonight

Written by Editorial Team

The ZAlebs editorial team brings you the latest in South African celebrity news, entertainment, music and lifestyle. We cover the stories Mzansi is talking about with speed, accuracy and a finger firmly on the pulse of local pop culture.

Published on 22.06.2020
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