Afro Soul In Lisboa
I recently returned from Lisbon, and it felt like more than just a holiday — it was a rediscovery of a culture that, in many ways, mirrors the spirit of home in South Africa . From the bustling streets of Lisbon to the tranquil charm of Cascais, I found a rhythm, colour, and warmth that felt familiar.
Walking through Lisbon, I was immediately drawn to the vibrance of the city — colourful tiled walls, warm yellow trams sliding through cobbled streets, there’s a laid-back energy, a love for life and food, and an unspoken rhythm that felt deeply Afro in spirit.
The food was unreal. I couldn’t get enough of the chicken peri-peri. Bonjardim would be my recommendation. Spicy, smoky, and full of flavour. It felt like you were sitting in their kitchen while they cooked, and somehow even more soulful. And then there were the pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts). Creamy, crisp, caramelised perfection in every bite.
Outside Lisbon, I found myself in Cascais, a coastal town that felt like the Atlantic cousin of Cape Town. The ocean breeze, the surf culture, the blend of old-world charm and modern luxury — it all felt familiar. You could feel the George James spirit unfolding there: linen shirts catching the wind, bare feet in the sand, sun-drenched afternoons turning into lively, stylish evenings.
But it wasn’t just the vibe — it was also the history that connected us. The deep ties between Portugal and Southern Africa are undeniable. The Portuguese influence in Mozambique, for example, shaped so much of what we know in South Africa — in our food, our music, even our language. The fusion of African and European cultures there has rippled through generations. That same blend is part of what George James stands for: timeless essentials, layered with that Afro feeling.
What struck me most was how cultures that once seemed worlds apart can actually reflect each other so strongly. Portugal and South Africa may be on different continents, but there’s a shared soul — seen in the streets, tasted in the food, heard in the music, and worn in the effortless style of the people.
Portugal reminded me that fashion, like culture, travels. It adapts. It influences. And it always returns home in a new shape. That’s what we’re trying to capture at George James - Pieces that stand the test of time, inspired by heritage and designed for the future.
