Keagan “The Fixer” Buchanan is flipping the script on what it means to be a soccer player. On the pitch – he dazzles, off the pitch – he’s making just as big an impact with his latest venture: a groundbreaking luxury athleisure wear line. 

His journey into fashion began in high school, inspired by his idols. 

“My interest in fashion developed when I was in high school. I was obsessed with a band called N.E.R.D led by Pharrell Williams. From a young age, I just wanted to dress like Pharrell and Miguel. These are the two guys that I looked up to when it came to fashion sense from a young age. Naturally, my love for fashion just grew because I put effort into my outfits and how I looked.”

Keagan’s vision is to create a collection that reflects his dynamic lifestyle—clothing that transitions effortlessly. Each piece in his line is meticulously designed to provide maximum comfort without compromising on style; with premium materials, cutting-edge designs, and a distinctive South African flair.

His passion for fashion didn’t stop at just looking good. He immersed himself in the world of design, gaining knowledge and honing his skills. 

“As the years passed by, I think when I was in Maritzburg United during my last season there, I started doing some designs and planning to start my own line, and fast forward to now in 2024, it became a reality.” 

His brand blends the high-energy vibe of sportswear with the sleek sophistication of high fashion, offering designs that scream style and performance. Each piece is meticulously crafted with premium materials and innovative designs. Ready to elevate your wardrobe? Step into the world of NINE ONE athleisure wear and experience where sport meets style in the most electrifying way.

“I dress according to my mood. I feel like you feel better when you dress according to how you feel, and most of the time I feel good.” 

His new luxury athleisure wear line captures this spirit perfectly, offering pieces that match every vibe. “If it’s a rainy day, I can choose to wear something cozy or comfortable, and then there are times where you just want to be out there.” 

The 33-year-old’s journey into the world of fashion is as dynamic and inspiring as his soccer career. Drawing significant inspiration from iconic figures, he said, “Pharrell Williams has always been someone I look up to.” But his fashion influences don’t stop there. Keagan also looks across the pond to the UK, where brands and designers fuel his creativity.

 “I draw a lot of inspiration from brands in the UK. I’m a very big fan of the Heaton brothers; they are the two guys I look up to in terms of athleisure wear.” These influences are evident in the sleek, innovative designs that characterise his new luxury athleisure wear line.

The Heaton brothers’ work, in particular, has left a lasting impression on Keagan, especially their commitment to quality and the tactile experience of their garments. “Their expertise in terms of quality and feel of the garments is amazing, so I will also be working towards perfecting those aspects of my brand.” 

By incorporating these high standards, Buchanan aims to create a collection that not only looks great but also feels incredible to wear. With his eye on perfecting the craftsmanship and feel of each piece, his brand promises to deliver a unique blend of comfort, style, and top-tier quality, ensuring his athleisure line stands out in a crowded market.

Balancing a successful football career and a passion for fashion requires careful time management and dedication, something the Fixer has mastered. “Football is my bread and butter. Football is me at work,” he explains. His days are structured around his primary career, with training sessions usually wrapping up by 1 PM. The afternoons then become his creative haven, where he dives into designing and refining his brand. “In my spare time, I focus on trying to do some designs and work on what I’m trying to achieve with the brand,” said the fashion forward footballer. This disciplined approach allows him to excel both on the pitch and in the world of fashion, proving that it’s possible to pursue multiple passions simultaneously.

Fashion is more than just a hobby for Keagan; it’s a vital part of his identity. “Fashion is important to me in my daily life because I love to feel good,” he shares. His commitment to style is so deep that even casual outings to the coffee shop see him impeccably dressed. “My wife is always complaining that even when I go to the coffee shop I overdress,” he laughs, but it’s clear that his love for fashion is non-negotiable. This dedication to looking and feeling good is what drives him to pour his heart into his athleisure wear line, ensuring that every piece reflects his high standards and passion for fashion.

Keagan’s background in football has profoundly shaped his approach to fashion and business. “My background in football influenced me to approach fashion and business in a sense that you need to be physically, mentally, and emotionally strong because of the ups and downs you face,” he explains. The resilience and determination required on the field have translated seamlessly into his entrepreneurial journey. In football, every game presents new challenges, requiring adaptability and a relentless drive to succeed—traits that are equally vital in the competitive world of fashion.

This athletic mindset equips him with the tools to navigate the highs and lows of building a brand. The discipline from his training regime instills a strong work ethic, while the mental toughness from facing setbacks in matches prepares him for the inevitable challenges in business. “This is the tool that has equipped me for business,” he stated, highlighting how his experiences as a professional athlete provide a unique edge in the fashion industry. By channeling the same passion and perseverance that define his football career into his luxury athleisure wear line, Buchanan ensures that his brand stands out, offering products that embody both quality and resilience.

The footballer has a powerful message for aspiring athletes with passions beyond sports, “Focus on your bread and butter, which is football, but also don’t let people make you feel like you cannot do things outside of football.” He emphasises that while football is a primary career, it doesn’t last forever, and it’s essential to find something else you love that can also be financially rewarding. “I personally do things that I love and I hope that they make me money,” Keagan shared. His advice is clear: don’t be afraid to dive into your other interests, but always remember to give football the attention it deserves as your mainstay. This balanced approach ensures a fulfilling and sustainable career both on and off the field.

When it comes to his favorite item from his collection, Keagan’s choice might surprise you. “A lot of people would lean more towards the track pants and hoodies, but for me, it has to be the T-shirt,” he reveals. For Keagan, this piece stands out because of its exceptional feel, high-quality material, and perfect weight. “It’s something special because it’s got a good feel, good material, and weight, and it’s the closest to what I want,” he says. 

While the brand is just getting started, he is confident that the garments will only get better with each drop. “We will be looking to improve on the quality with every single drop,” he assured, highlighting his commitment to excellence and continuous improvement in his fashion line.

“Everyone likes something different, and you have to respect that,” says Buchanan, embodying the spirit of individuality and creativity that fuels his journey. It’s been incredibly rewarding for him to witness so many young people express and pursue their passion for design and fashion. As the industry continues to flourish in South Africa, Keagan is excited about the potential for even greater growth and innovation.

The athlete hopes that his brand, Nine One, will make a significant contribution to this vibrant landscape. By championing quality, style, and individuality, he’s not just building a business—he’s inspiring the next generation of designers and fashion enthusiasts. With Keagan’s dedication and vision, the future of South African fashion looks brighter and more diverse than ever.

Nine One promises to deliver cutting-edge designs that keep you looking sharp and feeling comfortable, whether you’re dominating the field or hitting the streets. Get ready to celebrate in style with the launch of Nine One this week, culminating in the website going live on Mandela Day. Mark your calendars, because Keagan Buchanan is bringing his fashion game to a whole new level!