CYLA GONSOLVES

Capetonian Cyla Gonsolves launched her luxury resort and knitwear brand for women in 2017 after being a contestant in the reality series, The Intern by David Tlale. Winner of the Mr Price New Talent search 2023.

Designing from a studio on her farm and assisted by a team in Cape Town, she is passionate about incorporating ethical fashion practice, in particular female empowerment, at every step in her supply chain, to produce her signature elegant, casual clothing with a hand-crafted twist.

The award-winning Cyla Gonsolves range includes languid day dresses, cozy knits for effortless layering, and contemporary classic blouses. Each collection is conceived and tailored with impeccable care and attention to detail. 

Call 062 575-4509

Email [email protected]


MR PRICE NEW TALENT FINALISTS
 

1. BUSISIWE BUTHELEZI
  Brand Name: NGINGU 

Twitter & Instagram: @ngingu_official Facebook: @Nginguofficial 

Website: www.ngingu.net Inspired by the history, diversity, and evolution of the Johannesburg landscape my Collection will reflect the geometric patterns, colours, and structures within the ever changing architecture in Jozi. 

2. THEMBA PAULOS SHEZI
  Brand Name: HERU SHEZI 

Simakade is the name I chose to represent my Summer Spring collection. Simakade is a mystical God commonly known in African folklore for creating the moon while trying to capture the love of his life according to uVusamazulu Credo Mutwa. In a European context, he is represented as an esoteric symbol commonly known as "The Tree of Life" 

3. JAMES MOROENG  
  Brand Name: JAMES PRESENTS 

Instagram: @james.presents 

Facebook: James Presents "Being able to take fabric and turn it into something wearable, which positively impacts one's self-perception is the reason why we love the transformative nature of Fashion at James Presents" 

4. JESSICA-ANN SHEPERD
  Brand Name: ODDITY 

Instagram: @o_ddity Tiktok : @o_dditysa Facebook: Oddity by Jessica-Ann Introducing "Eco Dream Reimagined," a groundbreaking collection inspired by waste and upcycling. 

5. KATLEGO MOKWANA
  Brand Name: MOTHER OF GAO

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/motherofgao Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motherofgao/?igshid=82ff6i0wd84f Twitter: https://twitter.com/

Mother of Gao Focuses on natural dye and printing skills I am using food waste and plants to produce yellow hues and prints in my Collection associated with light and glory. 

6. KENEILWE KHOBO
  Brand Name: REINA MAJOKO 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reina_exclusiv/ 

The inspiration for my collection is the boiling frog syndrome. This syndrome is what I believe South African women are currently experiencing. The violence has escalated to a point where it is trickling down to the next generation. 

7. NHLANHLA MASEMOLA
  Brand Name: NHLANHLA MASEMOLA 

Instagram: @nhlanhlamasemola

Inspired by office dressing and corporate culture, I’ve used the idea of modern-day offices. 

8. BELINDA VENTER
Brand Name: BELHAUZEN 

Instagram: @belhauzen
I am a visionary Fashion Designer whose work is a testament to my unwavering ambition and dedication to empowering others. I am crafting a legacy that encourages individuals to wear their confidence as boldly as they do their style.


MR PRICE DOLLHOUSE COLLECTION

MICHAEL LUDWIG STUDIO 
Michael Ludwig Studio is a premium, contemporary & gender-fluid brand known for its zero-waste & modular designs inspired by psychology & the fluidity of identity.

This Cape Town-based studio follows a zero-waste policy whereby patterns & garments are made to have no fabric waste in production with fabric offcuts being kept for later developments such as accessories, binding, lining, etc. 

"Polar Personality," the latest collection from Michael Ludwig Studio, delves into life's opposing forces, showcasing how individuals tailor their looks for various occasions, spanning from formal events and casual lunches to office settings. Initially conceived as a quest for minimalism through fabric, silhouette, and colour reduction, the collection ultimately intertwines elements of maximalism, reflecting the brand's unique identity. Drawing inspiration from locally sourced interior design fabrics and employing a restrained colour palette, this collection breathes new life into diverse silhouettes, repurposing them into functional shapes & forms.

IMPRINT
Imprint is a luxury African label with an Afro-futuristic aesthetic.

The brand celebrates stories of the glamour surrounding their African ancestors with a contemporary and futuristic feel. Their inspiration comes from understanding who and where they are,  and how they would like their future to play out.

 ‘It has always been my mission to create a South African Luxury brand to celebrate the glamour as well as to tell the stories of our African ancestors. I use original bold prints and fabrics inspired by my African history and heritage drawing references to different points in time – says Mzukisi.

Over the years Imprint has grown to be more about a shared African identity with a simple and often-stated ethos: “Leave a mark.”

Sokhulu’s women’s wear collection was first noticed when she was a finalist in the 2018 New Talent Search and again in 2021. In 2022, Sokhulu was selected as one of the Fashion Bridges designers who took part in a collaboration between the Italian Embassy in South Africa, Polimoda in Florence, and the Milan Fashion Week facilitated by the SAFW.

With strong roots in her Zulu culture – Sokhulu’s inspiration comes from her upbringing – the respect for her elders, nature, and finding inspiration in traditional, formal silhouettes. 

‘Cotton is a dominant fabric in this collection, it is biodegradable, comfortable, and timeless.’

COMPANY INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]

WEBSITE: www.fikilezamagcinosokhulu.co.za

CONTACT: +27 72 506 1099

INSTAGRAM: @sokhulufikile

FACEBOOK: Fikile Sokhulu

TWITTER: @FikileSokhulu

SIPHO MBUTO
Durban-based Sipho Mbuto studied fashion design at the Durban University of Technology.

The eponymous Sipho Mbuto label explores the blurring of gender definition, the beauty of the feminine in family, and the sense of belonging through Ubuntu. 

Deeply committed to a sustainable fashion ethos, garments are only made-to-order to avoid overproduction and in a range of natural fabrics such as linens, silks, and cotton. These fabrics are sourced exclusively from African producers in Burkina Faso who can testify to the provenance of the raw material and with whom the studio has established long-term relationships of trust.  All production is done in small and family-owned local workshops that adhere to fair labour practices.

The signature’s timeless androgyny is inspired by art and architecture as well as random discovery. A-line silhouettes are embellished with cross-sectioned lines and minimalist cuts with surprising creative elements resulting in a comfortable, natural, and long-lasting aesthetic that transitions effortlessly from day to evening. 

Call 071 753 9334

Email [email protected]

THABO MAKHETHA
Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana is an award-winning designer, businesswoman, and cultural ambassador. Born in Lesotho and raised in South Africa, her collection is an ode to her Basotho heritage.  Both her Fashion and Lifestyle Brands prioritize responsible fashion and are inspired by and rooted in the Basotho Culture. 

Over the past 14 years, Thabo’s collections and homeware textiles have grown to be a celebrated nod to Basotho culture reimagined as contemporary, high-end fashion and home décor pieces. Her fan base is global and her success has come with high acclaim and awards. 

Sustainability must reinforce heritage, and value the idea of “finding your tribe”. Says Makhetha

Her Collections tell the stories of her past blending in with the present, and predicting the future.

THE BAM COLLECTIVE
"A Spirited Approach to South African Luxury"
The BAM Collective was born out of a deep-rooted love for the liveliness of South Africa, the exuberance of her people, and the profound impact that clothing has on our psyche. The brand specializes in taking a spirited approach to South African luxury, creating inclusive ready-to-wear, made-to-measure, and demi-couture garments exclusively from within its studio in South Africa.

The BAM Collective operates from a studio in Centurion, South Africa, where all products are consciously produced per order, with a focus on natural textiles and waste reduction. 

The brand uses graphic eco-prints, bold colours, striking silhouettes, and experimental details to explore unapologetic individuality within the 

COMPANY INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]

WEBSITE: www.thebamcollective.com

CONTACT: +27 72 118 4332

INSTAGRAM: @bamcollective

FACEBOOK: The BAM Collective

TWITTER: @bam_collective

BLACK COFFEE
Jacques van der Watt finds delight in the singularity of specific construction methods. For Black Coffee’s SS’24, he explores pleating in all its forms, creating intricate pieces with a commanding presence.

Despite the intricate construction, each look is stripped of superfluous elements, returning to a state of clarity by removing all excess.

Expect van der Watt's signature avant-garde, sculpture-like designs that have defined his work over the past two decades. Pleats are artfully fused to achieve volume, pushing silhouettes to new extremes for the brand.

This collection is an emotional offering; van der Watt imagines different characters for each look to achieve a varied offering while maintaining a strongly defined signature for the season."

www.blackcoffee.co.za/shop

Call 011 482 9148/ 076 686 9760

Email [email protected]

FRANC ELIS
Franc Elis is a menswear label situated in the textile cluster of Village Main Johannesburg.

Fabrice is a third-generation trained fashion designer who has 20 years of experience in designing and manufacturing unisex clothing. Franc Elis’ menswear look, and feel are rooted in the redefinition of military wear. This collection is inspired by the change in the political landscape linked to military coups that are taking over the African continent. In some of the garments, they use PFD fabric only; this means they only dye the garment after construction to eliminate the overuse of dying chemicals. 

In 2022, Franc Elis obtained two awards from the Fashion Industry Awards South Africa – Best Manufacturer of the Year and African Fashion Brand of the Year.

COMPANY INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]; [email protected]

WEBSITE: www.francelis.com

INSTAGRAM: franc_elis

FACEBOOK: Franc Elis

MUNKUS
Documenting Women's Fashion Narratives in South African Society.

In the heart of South African society, where culture intertwines with modernity, there exists a vibrant tapestry of fashion narratives waiting to be unveiled. 

As the lens focuses, on capturing the essence of South African women, it reveals a kaleidoscope of colours, patterns, and textures. Each garment tells a story, echoing the rich heritage and diverse cultural influences that shape the identity of these women.

Bold silhouettes and daring accessories signify more than just style; they embody a spirit of strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

In the series of this documentation, we seek not only to showcase fashion but to amplify voices. Through interviews and personal anecdotes, we delve into the stories behind the garments, exploring the triumphs and challenges of these women.

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COMPANY DETAILS

Website: www.munkus.co.za

Email: [email protected]

Contact: +27 71 745 6562

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/munkus_/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Munkus_

HELON MELON
A well-established label owned by Helen Gibbs and based in Cape Town, Helon Melon was founded in 1995 and was born out of an idea to service an industry that was limited in product design, style, fabric choice, and innovation. In the early stages fabrics were easily sourced from local suppliers who understood the need to supply products that were manufactured from natural fibres and fabrics that had surface interest. 

Gibbs is determined to keep chemicals away from all her processes, she uses water-based colours which is apparent in this season's collection inspired by the vibrancy and tones each new season brings.

Helon Melon is an inclusive, label that embraces everyday happiness.  Her slogan ‘We love what we do, and we do what we love’ tells us about the true ethos behind Helon Melon.

This season’s Collection comes with very gentle colours, the softness that we all need to be reminded of as we change seasons.

COMPANY INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]

WEBSITE: www.helonmelon.co.za

INSTAGRAM: @helonmelonct

FACEBOOK: Helon Melon Retail

EPHYMOL
Based, in Marshalltown, in Johannesburg, Ephraim Molingoana showed his first Ephymol collection at the South African Fashion Week in 2002.  Molingoana draws his inspiration from the now – the political situation, the environment, his family and friends, and the streets and happenings around him.

Growing up in Soweto and the Free State gave him exposure to different cultures and subcultures. Inspiration from Mapantsula, Sophiatown, Hippies, and Swankers formed the foundation of his identity.

“Cuts, tailoring, print on prints, patchwork and the technique thereof inspires me.  I work with vibrant colours, and I enjoy the subcultures of the AmaBhaca, Kitchness of Mblaselas, and the Pantsula’s loose fit and Matchy Matchy looks”.

COMPANY INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]

INSTAGRAM: @ephymol

FACEBOOK: Ephymol

TWITTER: @ephymol14

RUBICON

Since its inception in 2002, the Johannesburg-based Rubicon brand has emerged as one of Gauteng's most sought-after fashion destinations for women. Rubicon Design House represents effortless style, form-flattering sophistication, tailored craftsmanship, and timeless design. 

Hangwani Nengovhela, Founder and CEO, personifies the brand flawlessly, infusing each collection with subtle African grandeur and a dedication to design perfection as the brand celebrates over two decades of unrivalled femininity and discernment. 

Hangwani Nengovhela, Founder and CEO, personifies the brand flawlessly, infusing each collection with subtle African grandeur and a dedication to design perfection as the brand celebrates over two decades of unrivalled femininity and discernment. 

Hangwani is a multi-award-winning fashion designer and innovator who also serves as the director and ambassador for the No Crime Culture Project. Hangwani has contributed her knowledge and skills to some of South Africa's major fashion and textile industries through her qualification in Textile and Clothing Techniques from Minjiang University in China, as well as her competence in business skills gained through family history and studies (B.Com Marketing Management).

COMPANY INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]

WEBSITE: www.rubiconclothing.co.za

CONTACT: +27 81 381 9800

INSTAGRAM: @rubiconclothing

FACEBOOK: Rubicon Clothing

TWITTER: @RubiconClothing

BIJI LA MAISON DE COUTURE

Biji is a professional couture fashion designer who creates bespoke wedding, celebrity couture, and special occasion gowns. Biji La Maison de Couture was founded in 1990 and has become known for innovative design, exceptional attention to detail, and service excellence. Collaboration with clients during the dress fittings ensures that making your dream gown becomes a unique and memorable journey.

ISABEL DE VILLIERS
Isabel de Villiers is a Pretoria-based ready-to-wear designer. This highly sought-after and inclusive Brand, launched in 2012, caters to women size 32 to size 48.

From a design perspective, they are inspired by the diverse shapes of the female body. The design aesthetic is clean lines and figure-flattering silhouettes that exude a minimalistic touch. The brand only produces a small amount of each style to ensure exclusivity and quality. They are well known for their signature Laser Cut pieces. All garments are made locally in their studio in Pretoria, South Africa. Isabel and her team run a sustainable business that shines a light on the South African fashion and textiles industry.


 

BEACH CULT
Launched in 2011 Joanna Hedley started a swimwear brand called Beach Cult. Created from sustainable recycled techno swim fabric, with unique fits and one-of-a-kind prints, this swimwear Brand is a cult favourite. Their SS24 Collection is a collaboration with Cape Town-based Artist Ana Kuni, known for creating large-scale paintings and murals with an underlying message of spiritual growth and awakening. This luxury swimwear brand is designed for jet setters and nomads who carry the ocean continuously in their hearts.

Hedley’s SS24 Collection is inspired by the natural elements that are guiding everyday lives with the sun, moon, and ocean leading to a return to our authentic selves.  

HEART & HERITAGE
Heart and Heritage founder Lesley Kellerman draws inspiration from merging fine craftsmanship with the back stories of objects and people.  This ready-to-wear, slow-fashion brand produces small runs and is based in Johannesburg.  

This season her Retro Sci-fi Collection will inspire, evoke contemplation of the unknown, and stimulate the imagination, blurring the boundaries between science fiction and reality and how it will impact humanity.

The collection takes inspiration from classic science fiction stories and technological and scientific progress in space exploration. We are elevating our core collection as well as introducing new cuts with an infusion of stratospheric hues, astronomical glows, and other-worldly silhouettes.

EZOKHETHO 
Ezokhetho founded by Mpumelelo Dhlamini is based in Johannesburg.

Mpumelelo’s Collections tells stories from his immediate surroundings and the women who had an incredible appreciation for fashion.  It takes from the past to reflect the present.

Exokhetho is known for its vibrant prints.  

With authenticity as one of its core values, the luxury brand aims to tell African stories using fabric. Ezokhetho continues to take on a DNA of its own each season. The brand aspires to find new ways of giving modern African women clothing that makes a statement without compromising on comfort or quality. Ezokhetho’s voguish pieces aim to cater to and enhance the everyday wardrobe of African women.

GUGUBYGUGU
My upcoming collection for Spring/Summer 2024, titled "Manufactured not Made," is a luxury streetwear menswear collection that delves into the behind-the-scenes process of garment production. It aims to shed light on the intricacies of creating a collection while challenging the audience's perception of the fashion industry. If exposing the process behind my designs could garner more respect, then why not peel back the layers and reveal what it truly takes to craft a garment? This collection invites you into my studio, where each piece tells a story and offers a glimpse into the world of manufacturing.

E_MANIA
Kuhle Phumzile Zondo, a finalist in the 2023 Mr. Price New Talent Search will be joining the ranks of South African fashion designers for the SS 2024 season. Drawing inspiration from African idioms and infused with E_mania's unique perspective, the Johannesburg-based brand positions itself as an artistic movement committed to reimagining African idioms through clothing. 

The essence of E_mania lies in its deep connection to the rich tapestry of African cultural experiences. Upholding the brand's design philosophy, Kuhle ensures that each garment adheres to the 3 R promise – Repair, Re-Use, and Recycle – reinforcing E_mania's commitment to sustainability.

Her SS 2024 collection, "Canvas Couture: The Body, My Art," is inspired by the collaboration of two graphic illustrative designers—one from South Africa and another from Brazil. The collection showcases the cultural similarities between Africans and African Brazilians, beginning with an authentic African perspective, transitioning to the lens of African Brazilians, and finishing in a digital print that seamlessly merges both designs.

The carefully curated colour palette, featuring Fiery Red and Cherry Red, symbolizes richness and passion. The Orange serves as a representation of the resilience inherent to the African continent. 

COMPANY INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]

WEBSITE: www.emania.co.za

CONTACT: +27 79 715 5681

INSTAGRAM: @elitemonomania

FACEBOOK: @elitemonomania

YOUTUBE: elitemonomania

SANIA BACAR 
Sânia Bacar, is a designer based in Maputo, Mozambique.

The creative mind behind SAVÁ, a contemporary streetwear brand. 

She has been in the business for 3 years.

Sania finds inspiration in her own life experiences and the world around her, especially in nature and architecture. 

This season’s MAPUTO Collection is inspired by Maputo City. I drew inspiration from its architecture, street art, food, and vibrant atmosphere.

The main fabric used is denim, I developed a unique print for this collection, incorporating vibrant colors, unique patterns, and traditional craftsmanship into the designs. 

Our brand ethos is all about embracing the potential of the African continent and showcasing its rich culture through fashion and art.

WhatsApp:+258850712268

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: @sava____official

Twitter: @sava__official

LEON VON SOLMS
Leon von Solms is based in Woodstock, Cape Town.

Coming from an art background Leon has always been inspired by Africa.  This is reflected in the array of layered textures, colours, and unorthodox crafting.

Von Solms uses layers as accessories. Deconstructed and illusionary, asymmetric cut-up layers 

permeates his silhouettes, extending wearability and longevity.

His SS24 Collection will feature hand-painted dresses, and flowing skirts in glorious colours. 

COMPANY INFORMATION

EMAIL: [email protected]

CONTACT: +27 64 514 4351

INSTAGRAM: @leonmadeby

FACEBOOK: Made by Leon