29 October 2026International edition
Vol. I · No.
29 October 2026
AI IN FASHION
DAILY
The daily briefing on AI in the fashion business
Where fashion meets artificial intelligence.
Streetwear and youth culture

Holmes Brothers

South Africa

Holmes Brothers is a South African surf-inspired clothing brand founded by Laurie Holmes in the 1990s. It sells T-shirts, shirts, shorts, boardshorts, jackets and fleece for men, women and youth, as well as custom surfboards.

Facts
FounderLaurie Holmes
Founded1990s
CountrySouth Africa
StyleSurf-inspired casualwear
Websiteholmesbros.co.za
Segment
Mid-market
Categories
MenswearWomenswearChildrenswearAccessories
Sales channels
Own storesE-commerce

What is Holmes Brothers?

Holmes Brothers, also known as Holmes Bros, is a South African clothing label built on what it calls laid back African surf roots. Founder Laurie Holmes began by making surfboards in his parents' garage; customers then asked for T-shirts, which led to clothing.

History

The brand started in the 1990s as an African streetwear label and grew into a surfwear name with its own stores. Founder Laurie Holmes later rebuilt the business through a difficult period.

Products and positioning

Holmes Brothers describes its clothing as made in South Africa. The range includes:

  • T-shirts, button-up shirts and golfers
  • Pants, shorts, boardshorts and volleys
  • Jackets, fleece and jerseys
  • Men's accessories and custom surfboards

Distribution

The brand sells through its own Holmes stores in South Africa and an online shop.

Why it matters

Holmes Brothers is one of the locally made surfwear brands that keep South African production and coastal culture at the centre of their identity.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded Holmes Brothers?

Holmes Brothers was founded by Laurie Holmes, who started out making surfboards.

What does Holmes Brothers sell?

It sells surf-inspired clothing for men, women and youth, plus accessories and custom surfboards.

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