Following his time as editor of some of the continent’s most respected media titles, the designer has returned to the world of clothing design with the opening of his flagship store in Hyde Park Corner, Johannesburg — a culmination of all his interests with a sharp focus on craft and handmade items.

The designer was born in South Africa in 1983 and graduated in 2004 from the progressive fashion program at LISOF after he won the prestigious Elle/ LISOF scholarship during his final year at high school. Whilst working on his prodigious first collection, he interned at South African designer Clive Rundle, and during this period established codes that define his idiosyncratic brand. 

Inspired by contemporary art and with great attention to craftsmanship and detail, the designer quickly developed from emerging designer to an award-winning leader in the industry. In 2008, he launched the first TIAAN NAGEL store, a boutique that reflects the brand’s unique signature of wearable luxury. During this period he also become the Creative Director for contemporary ladies brand, Marion and Lindie, consulted for two of the largest clothing retailers in Africa, become the Artistic Director for International e-retailer Kisua, launched the Sunday Times Fashion suite, the Edit and Edit Man and started his young family.