It’s not often you get to indulge in your favorite pastime of shopping and contribute to a good cause (one that’s even better than keeping you looking fly). Until now, that is. Living legend Nelson Mandela‘s namesake Foundation recently launched an international clothing line that will sustain the organization’s numerous charities and also help South Africa’s textile industry.

Set for an August launch, the line is called 46664 after Mandela’s prisoner number at the infamous Robben Island Prison, where he spent a grueling 27 years locked up before becoming South Africa’s first black President in 1994. According to reports, the collection is set to include bright sportswear for men and intricately patterned African-influenced women’s wear. The apparel will also include couture garments and eventually include pieces created by international and national guest designers.

Although the line is yet to released, there’s already controversy surrounding it due to perceived expensive prices. From PoshGlam.com:

According to the AP, a T-shirt will cost about 180 rand ($26) while a man’s collard shirt will run for about 600 rand ($86), which is exceedingly pricey in a country where the minimum wage is less than $200. But as with all fashion, the term “expensive” is relative and must be put into a context where proceeds will help those that are less unfortunate as well as the country’s economy. Foundation board member Achmat Dangor says: “You are not just investing in a piece of apparel…you also are investing in a plan that will continue to spread that humanitarian legacy of Mandela.”

The clothing line will be sold at its own store, to be opened August in downtown Johannesburg, as well as in department stores. It also will be available online for international sale.

Images: Ecouterre.com

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