POLOKWANE – The tradition of buying and wearing new clothes on Christmas Day is one deeply rooted in South African Christian communities, particularly among Black families. While most people participate in it without question, the origins of the custom remain layered and complex — shaped by faith, culture and socio-economic history.

Writer and archival archivist Dr Dineo Skhosana, who researched the subject prior to 2012, says the practice does not have a single clear beginning. Instead, it appears to have evolved through a combination of religious meaning and South Africa’s historical realities.

“In exploring this tradition, I found that no one could pinpoint exactly where it started. What was clear is that it has a long history within African communities,” she wrote. “When I interviewed participants born before 1994, none of them could explain its genesis beyond acknowledging that buying new Christmas clothes had always been part of their upbringing.”

Symbolism rooted in Christianity

Skhosana says one possible explanation is the symbolism attached to the birth of Jesus Christ. The “newness” of clothing may have represented purity, renewal and the celebration of Christ’s arrival.

“The history of Christianity in South Africa — widely documented from the mid-1800s — raises questions about whether the tradition emerged after missionary influence or whether it had pre-colonial roots,” she explained.

Mission societies often encouraged Africans to adopt Western clothing, seeing it as an indication of civilisation, progress and status. This shift may have reinforced the idea of dressing up for sacred occasions such as Christmas.

However, she notes that this theory is not entirely sufficient.

“There are many African Christians whose faith is unquestioned, yet they do not buy or wear new clothing on Christmas. This means the tradition cannot be explained solely through religion.”

The migrant labour system’s influence

Skhosana’s second hypothesis looks at the historical migrant labour system.

Throughout the 20th century, thousands of Black men were forced to work far from home in mines and cities, returning only during December. Families relied on small remittances during the year, but Christmas became a time of reunion and celebration — often accompanied by the purchase of new clothes brought home by the breadwinner.

“These men would bring clothes and items they could not afford or physically transport during the year,” Skhosana noted. “Their arrival during the festive season turned Christmas into a moment of abundance — giving rise to a tradition of new clothes symbolising joy, success and family unity.”

A tradition tied to economics?

Dr Skhosana raises another important question: Could the custom simply be linked to festive-season spending?

December is bonus season for many workers, making new clothes more affordable. This financial boost may have contributed to the entrenchment of the practice over time.

She believes examining these layers helps communities understand why the tradition still carries emotional and cultural weight.

“Understanding where our practices come from allows people to put knowledge toward their actions,” she said.