Cape Town Fashion Week (CTFW) once again made a resounding impact in the fashion industry, solidifying its status as a key event on the African fashion calendar.
Curated by Africa Fashion International (AFI), The Edit Spring Summer 24 took place at the iconic Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse this weekend, drawing fashion enthusiasts and trendsetters eager to witness the continent’s dynamic design talents.
Marked as a must-attend affair for fashionistas and design enthusiasts, the gathering showcased some of the continent’s most talented designers.
The diverse line-up was a testament to African creativity, featuring prominent pan-African designers such as Alia Baré from Niger/Senegal, Hélène Daba of Sisters of Afrika, Laurence Chauvin-Buthaud of LaurenceAirline (Côte d’Ivoire), Papy Kaluw of Urban Zulu (Democratic Republic of Congo), and Safiétou Seck of Sarayaa (Senegal).
South Africa was well represented by a line-up of exceptional designers, including Londeka Buthelezi-Ndaba from Malondié, Bathini Kowane of Bathini Designs, Sello Medupe of Scalo, Keletso Moraba of K.Moraba & Collective, FabroSanz's Sandi Mazibuko, and Cape Town’s Julia Buchanan of JULIA.
Among the highlights of the week was the highly anticipated return of two celebrated local designers. Craig Jacobs, the founder of Fundudzi and a pioneer of AFI since 2007, returned after a 14-year hiatus, bringing forth a collection that served as a nostalgic yet evolved representation of his craft.
His vision for this collection is one of simplicity and meaning, focusing on identity and personal stories. “There’s strength in quiet, thoughtful storytelling, and I hope this collection captures that spirit,” Jacobs explained.
Jacobs’ journey into the world of fashion was unexpected; he recounted how, after attending countless fashion shows as a journalist, he had the realisation that he could contribute creatively.
His partnership with designer Pumla Ngxekana helped launch Fundudzi in 2004, a label rooted in storytelling through fabric, inspired by South Africa’s rich cultural heritage.
In another significant highlight, South Africa’s Miss SA 2024, Mia Le Roux, unveiled her stunning Ndebele-inspired national costume. This eye-catching gown, marked with culturally rich symbols, showcased original artwork from renowned Ndebele artist Dr Esther Mahlangu.
Le Roux’s emotional connection to the garment was palpable, as she expressed her delight that South Africans could finally appreciate the stunning creation after her withdrawal from the Miss Universe competition due to health concerns.
“The gown is an original work of art by Dr Esther Mahlangu, one of South Africa’s most iconic cultural ambassadors, and celebrates our interconnectedness,” Le Roux said. “Its intricate handmade design demonstrates the creative traditions of South Africa.”
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za