Swenkas are a subculture of working-class Zulu men in South Africa who participate in amateur competitions that are part fashion show and part choreography, the purpose of which is to display one's style and sense of attitude. The practice, known as "swenking," ultimately derives its name from the English word "swank."

These well-dressed men, often migrant laborers residing in Johannesburg's poor areas, are regarded as inspirations within their communities and adhere to a strict code of values that includes physical cleanliness, sobriety, and self-respect.

The competitive fashion shows usually take place on Saturday nights, featuring an entrance fee from competitors. The Swenkas are judged both on the quality of their attire—typically expensive designer suits with European labels—and their elaborate, choreographed movements, or "swank." The winner of the night receives a portion of the collected entry fees as a prize.

The Swenka subculture originated in the poor areas of Johannesburg, such as Jeppestown, dating back to the mid-1900s. Swenking was particularly crucial during the apartheid era as a means for Zulu migrant laborers to preserve their culture and pride, using a formal dress code to assert their dignity against dehumanizing conditions. This focus on self-discipline and refinement helped individuals transcend the social barriers imposed by their working-class status, transforming the men from underpaid workmen into "peacocks on Saturday night."

The movement is frequently discussed as a form of "African dandyism" and shares characteristics, such as an obsession with high-street brands and a Jazz-Age-inspired look, with the Congolese Sapeurs (La Sape) . However, Swenking is distinguished by its strong emphasis on the articulation of ethnic and community pride as Zulu men, a specific element less foregrounded in the Congolese subculture.

Swenka fashion is centered on a dapper, formal dress code, taking inspiration from the refinement of the jazz age. The main staples of the Swenka look are the business suit and the brimmed hat (such as a fedora). The suits themselves vary widely, ranging from conservative colors like brown, black, and white to bolder choices such as pink, red, or blue.

The ensembles are completed with a variety of accessories, including gloves, braces, cuff links, and sometimes zebra-striped socks. Favored items include Pierre Cardin suits, Florsheim or Baker shoes, and Cashini shirts. Despite this focus on expensive designer wear, most participants earn a modest income, with average monthly wages often around $400. Consequently, they frequently acquire their expensive tailored suits, which can cost up to $1,200, through layaway plans that involve making small payments over long periods while dreaming of the purchase. The investment in clothing is viewed not as a frivolous expenditure, but as a serious business of self-discipline and pride, where "clothes make the man."

The competitions are designed to allow men to display their outfits with elaborate acts and specific "moves" that call attention to the details of their attire, often performed to music by artists such as Henry Mancini and Nat King Cole.

A core philosophical value of Swenking is the positive contribution it makes to the community, with one prominent member stating that spreading swenking could "turn the tide against crime." The transmission of this lifestyle is generational, as evidenced by Swenkas who recall watching their fathers compete and who save their old suits hoping their sons will grow up to become Swenkas themselves.

The subculture was the subject of the 2004 Danish documentary The Swenkas by filmmaker Jeppe Rønde, which highlighted the contrast between the participants' life as underpaid laborers and their glamorous Saturday night persona. The film was noted for its reflection on how style can help individuals temporarily transcend class barriers.