The Cape Town International Jazz Festival is all about the music, the energy, the people, and yes, the fashion.
What started in 2000 as a relatively small gathering of jazz lovers has grown into one of Africa’s biggest music festivals, drawing international stars and local legends to the heart of the Mother City.
Every year, fans flock to the city not only for the sounds, but for the vibes and that includes planning the perfect outfit.
It’s a weekend escape, a reason to dress up, unwind, and soak in the culture. And trust me, people don’t play when it comes to their style choices.
The festival has become a catwalk of its own - where cool meets comfort, and where your outfit needs to work for both daytime grooves and night-time chills. Because let's face it, Cape Town weather can have its mood swings.
It’s a chance for you to express your vibe, your personality and maybe show off that one bold outfit you’ve been saving.
Flowy materials
Here’s the golden rule: you’ll be moving (unless you're the type who just wants to chill in a comfortable seat). Between dancing, queuing, and weaving your way through the crowd, you’ll want to be dressed in something that lets you breathe.
Opting for wide-legged pants and flowy materials is a stylish and practical choice. Think: flowy fabrics, wide-legged pants, breathable cotton, and those trusty jumpsuits that can go from day to night with ease.
Add a bit of fringe or movement to your outfit, and it’ll keep up with the music.
Style doesn’t have to be stiff. You can slay without the pain – no pinching shoes, no tight waistbands. The goal is to feel as good as you look.
Choose comfort
You do not need to suffer to look good, "suffering for beauty" is so last year. That new pair of heels? Leave them. Opt for bold, comfy shoes like platform sneakers, chunky sandals, or stylish ankle boots that won’t punish your feet by 4pm.
Layer like a local
Don’t be fooled by the sunshine. Cape Town is notorious for switching moods after dark. One second, you’re basking in golden sunshine, the next, you're battling a cheeky breeze or hunting for a scarf. But Capetonians know how to dress smart and slay.
A lightweight denim jacket, which is always a classic, an oversized shirt, or even a funky kimono can save you from the evening nip without cramping your style. Scarves are a great touch too. It's both fashionable and practical.
Accessories
A wide-brimmed hat or funky bucket cap will earn you both sun protection and compliments. And who doesn't love a pair of stylish sunnies (sunglasses).
Statement earrings bring drama. Oversized, geometric, beaded, or metallic, whatever brings the drama. These little scene-stealers frame your face and add instant flair to even the simplest outfit. Match them with a bold lip or a bare face and let the earrings do all the talking.
Sunglasses? Essential. Not only do they elevate your look, but they’re great for hiding tired eyes after a late night at the after-party.
Belts, bangles, bold rings, or even an Afro-futuristic neckpiece.
A printed headwrap or a stack of wrist bangles can tie your whole outfit together. Mix metals, play with textures, and don’t be afraid to layer. Chunky beadwork, cowrie shell details, or even recycled statement jewellery.
And don’t forget the bags. A hands-free crossbody or mini backpack is ideal for navigating crowds while still keeping your essentials close. Bonus points if it matches your outfit or adds a pop of print or colour.
Prints, colour and sparkle
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival is proudly African, and it shows. It's the perfect place to bring out your Afrocentric prints, rich textures, pops of colour, and maybe, if you're feeling naughty, even a hint of glitter.
Whether it’s a two-piece set in Shweshwe, Ankara, or a sequin kimono thrown over a basic look. Let your outfit reflect the festive spirit.
Pair contrasting prints in similar tones, layer a printed jacket over neutral basics, or tie it all together with a patterned headwrap. Accessories can echo your print’s palette, or clash boldly for extra flair.
You’ll see every kind of style at the event, from minimal chic to full-on flamboyant. That’s the beauty of it. There’s no uniform, just people enjoying the music, the atmosphere, and yes, the opportunity to serve a look.