SOUTH AFRICAN FASHION WEEK SPRING/SUMMER 2025

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ODDITY – SAFW New Talent Search

Jessica-Ann Shepherd is the founder and designer of Oddity, a Cape Town-based brand that has been redefining knitwear since 2019. Oddity expresses its creativity through intricate knitwear, quirky design elements, and bold prints—using print as a storytelling medium within each collection. As a brand committed to sustainability, Oddity practices slow design, creating made-to-order pieces that are both thoughtful and unique.

 In 2024, Jessica-Ann won the Ladieswear Mr Price x SA Fashion Week New Talent Search competition, a milestone that highlighted Oddity's fresh approach to fashion.

Her upcoming collection, "Tenth Avenue," tells the story of her roots and growing up in a house on 10th Avenue, a place that shaped her upbringing and remains deeply connected to her family.

JUANIE – SAFW New Talent Search

With a foundation in fine art, Juanie van Wyk believes Fashion Design is an interaction, a statement, and an experience meant to be lived in.

A top graduate of LISOF, Juanie built her career across fashion design, production management, interior decorating, corporate administration, and fashion retail.

Beyond fashion, Juanie believes the best design is not just worn but felt — it moves with the body, evolves with the wearer, and carries meaning long after it leaves the studio. She is creating a space where creativity and purpose come together. She challenges expectations, focuses on quality, and rethinks how fashion can serve both individuals and the community.

MY ROOTS – SAFW New Talent Search

Born into a lineage of skilled dressmakers, Boitumelo Masehla is the first in her family to turn

her talent to design fashion into a business. 

She is a graduate of the University of Johannesburg and is the designer behind MY ROOTS. 

Inspired by African heritage, MY ROOTS fuses traditional textiles with contemporary silhouettes, crafting statement pieces that embody cultural identity, pride, and unity.

Masehla channels her heritage into her designs, crafting pieces that serve as a platform for awareness, education, and cultural connection. Her creations honor identity and unity through fashion.

NGANO DESIGN AFRICA – SAFW New Talent Search

Born in Zimbabwe and trained in Italy and South Africa, Tanaka Magirazi Vengere is the designer behind NGANO Design Africa, combining heritage, sustainability, and creativity. His work brings together traditional craftsmanship with a fresh design perspective.

With a background in fashion design and veterinary science, Tanaka combines technical skill with curiosity and creative exploration. 

He takes inspiration from theatre, modern art, historical clothing, and African traditions, using draping, deconstruction, and upcycling to create unique Collections that tell his story.

Beyond fashion, Tanaka has experience in costume design, window displays, skills development, and fashion education. 

Tanaka also enjoys exploring visual arts, digital collages, textile crafts, and creative writing.

With a strong focus on quality, sustainability, and innovation, Tanaka aims to create desirable, responsibly designed Collections, that celebrate African creativity and craftsmanship.

ECSTATIC – SAFW New Talent Search

A promising fashion designer and founder of Ecstatic, Fundo Songwana merges high fashion, sustainable design, and luxury streetwear. Born and raised in KwaJoni, KwaZulu-Natal, he developed an appreciation for craftsmanship, innovation, and the transformative power of fashion.

As an emerging talent, he continues to expand his expertise in garment production, mastering pattern making, garment construction, and sketching to refine his artistic and technical approach.

During his studies, he collaborated with photography students to curate a striking portfolio that captures his evolving vision and design philosophy. Through Ecstatic, he pushes the limits of contemporary fashion, blending responsible fashion principles with refined aesthetics, exploring the intersection of conscious design and modern sophistication.

JAMES PRESENTS – SAFW New Talent Search

James Presents is known for designs that offer a great fit, often featuring cinched waists, feminine silhouettes, and distinctive sleeves - one of his design obsessions. He stands for inclusivity and body positivity, aiming to be a positive force in the fashion industry. James is committed to showcasing the beauty of his roots, particularly highlighting Soweto as a hub of creativity, style, and individuality. He is interested in shining a light on the unique essence he finds in his community.?

James Presents successfully completed the DSAC Fashion Designer Entrepreneurship Programme in February, where he stood out as an exceptional young entrepreneur.

TADIWANASHE KAREN KAPARIPARI – SAFW New Talent Search

Tadiwanashe Karen Kaparipari is the founder of TADI wa NASHE, a brand launched in 2024. Kaparipari’s design philosophy is inspired by the idea that all creation comes from a greater source, and she draws from this to design desirable pieces that tell meaningful stories.

She values intricate details, combining elements of art history and modern influences to create designs that complement the body. TADI wa NASHE is dedicated to producing high-quality, well-crafted, and exclusive designs.

Tadiwanashe earned her BA in Fashion Design from Stadio School of Fashion. Currently she creates custom designs that reflect each client’s unique style and personality.

ESTELLA JAMES – SAFW New Talent Search

Allegra Nassif was born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa with a Lebanese and Polish heritage. Her talent and innovation were recognized early in her career, leading to a feature in Vogue Portugal in 2021.

With Estella James as her platform, Allegra explores contemporary design through a fusion of her multicultural background. 

While her Lebanese and Polish heritage influences the finishing and detailing of her garments, her inspiration is always rooted in current happenings and concepts she finds intriguing. 

Her skill set in corsetry, pleating and knitwear brings depth to her work ensuring Estella James stands out through craftsmanship and refined construction.

Sustainability is at the core of Allegra’s design philosophy. She prioritizes thoughtful fabric selection, mindful production methods, and construction to reduce environmental impact. Estella James uses deadstock fabrics and to create garments that are both ethically produced and timeless. 

By working with local artisans and small-scale manufacturers, she aims to support craftsmanship, preserve skills, and contribute to a more inclusive fashion ecosystem.

TAYLORED SUBSTANCE – SAFW New Talent Search

Shepherd Mokgotho is the founder of Taylored Substance, a contemporary brand talking modern fashion through design and craftsmanship.

He has a Higher Certificate in Fashion Design, and his journey into the industry began not as a creator but as an admirer, drawn to the art of fashion design from a young age. For Shepherd, fashion was never just about clothing, it was a language, and a form of self-expression.

Shepard interned at well-known designer Amanda Laird Cherry Apparel and Polo South Africa, a premium lifestyle brand known for its equestrian-inspired style. These experiences provided him with industry insight, refining his understanding of design, production, and brand development. 

Founded in 2019, Taylored Substance serves as Shepherd’s creative canvas, merging high fashion with urban influences. Specializing in both menswear and womenswear, the brand offers a dynamic mix of ready-to-wear, conceptual fashion, and bespoke pieces. 

GERT JOHAN COETZEE

Gert-Johan Coetzee stands at the pinnacle of South African fashion, recognized for his elegant red-carpet designs, international reach, and deep commitment to using fashion as a force for good. Launching his career at 19, he was named South Africa’s Most Promising Young Designer (2006) and has since ascended as a defining force in the industry. His 2024 London Fashion Week debut garnered critical acclaim, cementing his status on the international stage.

His couture creations, draped on icons such as Oprah Winfrey, Cardi B, Chloe Bailey, and Miss Universe winners, consistently claim top spots on best-dressed lists. His innovative approach has driven collaborations with Disney, Barbie Loves Gert (2023) - a 31-look collection celebrating South Africa’s rich diversity—and McDonald’s, merging fashion with pop culture.

Beyond aesthetics, Coetzee leverages fashion as a platform for advocacy, spotlighting gender-based violence, breast cancer awareness, and environmental conservation through his collections.

A true industry trailblazer, he has forged partnerships with Volvo, Ferrari, and Swarovski, while expanding his repertoire to include casual wear, menswear, and luxury ready-to-wear. With an audacious yet socially conscious vision, Coetzee continues to shape the future of fashion—both in South Africa and across the globe.

THABO MAKHETHA

Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana is a cultural ambassador, renowned for her work in transforming heritage textiles into contemporary luxury fashion. Born in Lesotho and raised in South Africa, she founded her eponymous heritage brand in 2009, drawing inspiration from the iconic Basotho blanket to create distinctive, high-end designs.

Her signature capes and coats reimagine these traditional blankets, blending cultural storytelling with modern fashion. Each piece reflects a deep appreciation for African craftsmanship, ensuring that heritage remains relevant in global fashion conversations. Collaborating with textile mills, she continues to innovate with bespoke fabrics such as the Dikeledi woven pattern, further elevating her designs.

Thabo’s contributions have earned her international recognition, including features in major publications such as the Wall Street Journal and Vogue Italia, and showcases on global runways. In 2024 she was honored with the African Creative Industry Award by AWIEF (African Women’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum) and is the recipient of the Cultural Appreciation Award from the Government of Lesotho, for promoting Basotho heritage worldwide.

With a commitment to responsible fashion, cultural preservation, and innovation, Thabo Makhetha-Kwinana continues to shape the future of African luxury, ensuring that the rich stories woven into each design are celebrated across the world

TIGER BLUE

Our vision was born from a passion for creating authentic denim for true individualists who live and breathe the fabric. More than just a garment, each piece becomes a living canvas, evolving with every crease, fade, and journey—a reflection of the wearer’s story.

Crafted from premium raw selvedge denim, Tiger Blue Denim has earned its place in the world of denim enthusiasts. “Born to roam, made to endure.”

Founded by Etienne Joubert and Wilrien Strydom, the brand blends traditional craftsmanship with modern design while staying true to denim’s heritage. Etienne, Founder & Design Director, is a denim expert with decades of experience in premium product development, trend analysis, and fashion-forward design. Wilrien, Creative Lead & Art Director, is a seasoned designer and product developer, bringing fresh ideas to life for over a decade. Together, they craft denim that stands the test of time.

RUBICON

Rubicon, founded in 2002 by designer Hangwani Nengovhela, is a multi-award-winning fashion brand known for its elegance and modern African luxury.  For over two decades, it has seamlessly blended heritage with contemporary design, drawing inspiration from the historical landscape of Mapungubwe.

Hangwani infuses each collection with subtle African opulence, showcasing her expertise in tailoring and refined craftsmanship. Trained in Textile and Clothing Techniques at Minjiang University in China, she combines technical skill with business acumen from her entrepreneurial background.

Beyond fashion, she is committed to mentoring young designers, shaping the future of African fashion. Rubicon’s influence extends beyond South Africa, with global runway showcases, including an exclusive presentation in Indonesia. As the brand continues to evolve, it remains a symbol of African excellence, balancing tradition and innovation on the world stage

SIXX6: DSAC young entrepreneur

Mimangaliso Ndiko is the creative force behind SIXX6, a South African fashion house redefining sensory-driven design. Based in Pretoria, Ndiko envisions fashion as the sixth sense—a powerful extension of perception and experience.

Rooted in the essence of the five senses - scent, sight, taste, touch and sound - SIXX6 designs garments that transcend mere clothing, offering an immersive fashion forward experience. Through fabric manipulation, each piece introduces tactile richness, while striking prints please the eye. Signature embellishments evoke sound, transforming movement into an expressive statement.

At the heart of SIXX6 lies a commitment to responsible fashion. Each piece is designed with versatility and adaptability, incorporating adjustable elements that empower the wearer to shape silhouettes in harmony with their mood, occasion, or personal style.

With SIXX6, fashion is no longer static—it breathes, transforms, and evolves with you.

NAKED APE

Shaldon Kopman founded Naked Ape in 2005, blending his African heritage, eco-friendly philosophy, and style principles. The brand launched its first collection in 2010 and has since dressed celebrities like Boris Kodjoe, Laurence Fishburne, and Samuel L. Jackson. A career highlight was designing eco-garments for Barack and Michelle Obama. Shaldon mentors design talent, creatively directs runway shows, and pioneers’ sustainable fashion. He prioritizes luxury detailing, desirability, and sustainability, using biodegradable textiles and minimising waste. His mantra, "Ethi Ecos" (Ethical, Ecological, and Economical), guides the brand's identity, alongside love, respect, and appreciation. As a proud South African and African brand, Naked Ape aims to change local and international perceptions of the African Fashion Industry. With a strong focus on sustainability and style, Shaldon continues to innovate and inspire.

THE BAM COLLECTIVE

The BAM Collective is a leading luxury fashion brand that merges bold creativity with South Africa’s rich cultural heritage. 

Specializing in inclusive ready-to-wear, made-to-measure, and demi-couture, each piece is expertly designed and handcrafted in its South African studio, balancing tradition with contemporary design.

Internationally recognized, the brand has collaborated with South African Fashion Week, showcasing collections at Milan’s Fashion Bridges (2021), A-Propós (2023), and Mozambique Fashion Week (2019 & 2021). It has also participated in Paris’ Africa Fashion Up (2022) and Dubai Fashion Week (2023), further solidifying its global presence.

With accolades including Trans-Seasonal Brand of the Year (TWYG, 2022), Emerging Designer of the Year (FIASA, 2022), and Most Stylish Brand (SA Style Awards, 2024), The BAM Collective continues to push boundaries, redefining luxury fashion through innovation, sustainability, and South African artistry on the international stage.

BEACH CULT

Born in Cape Town in 2011, BeachCult is all about effortless beach vibes, cool prints, and sustainable fashion. Founded by designer Joanna Hedley, the brand captures the easygoing coastal lifestyle with swim and resort wear that’s stylish, comfy, and consciously made.

Every piece is designed and handmade in Cape Town by local female artisans, supporting ethical production and celebrating homegrown creativity. BeachCult is known for its exclusive prints, created by homegrown artists, making each design a unique piece of South African culture.

From beach days to sundowners, our pieces are made to move with you—whether you're lounging by the ocean or heading out for a casual dinner. You can find us at our flagship store at the Victoria Wharf Shopping Centre, V&A Waterfront, where you can experience our signature bohemian-inspired style in person.

BeachCult is a way of life. Dive into Cape Town’s vibrant spirit with our range of swimwear, resort wear, and activewear, all designed with sustainability in mind

PRET-A-PERFECT

Pret-A-Perfect believes in timeless style with a modern twist. This affordable luxury brand is designed and made at Victoria Yards' The Faktory, where craftsmanship meets fresh, contemporary design.

Every piece in the collection is thoughtfully designed, expertly patterned, and precisely tailored to create the perfect fit and finish. Whether you're after everyday essentials with a polished edge or statement pieces, our collections blend structure with flow, classic with modern, and sophistication with a hint of sensuality.

Made for women who embrace style and individualism, Pret-A-Perfect is all about looking and feeling the part  - wherever life takes you.

COLLEEN EITZEN

A renowned name in South African fashion, Colleen Eitzen is celebrated for her exceptional craftsmanship and designs that embrace individuality and fluidity.

With a career spanning over decades, her designs reflect timeless sophistication, blending contemporary ease with artisanal craftsmanship. Her highly anticipated return to the SA Fashion Week runway is a momentous occasion for both the industry and her loyal clientele.

Eitzen is known for creating garments that empower the wearer, redefining modern femininity through impeccable tailoring and innovative draping. Her latest collection captures the essence of her signature style - relaxed luxury, intelligent design, and an intuitive understanding of form and movement.

As she steps back onto the runway, she reaffirms her status as one of South Africa’s most influential fashion voices, continuing to inspire with her distinctive vision and enduring elegance.

HELEN GIBBS 

Helen Gibbs is the visionary Founder & CEO of The Helon Melon Experience, a brand dedicated to ethical and sustainable fashion. With 29 years of experience in the textile industry, she designs from Cape Town, South Africa, ensuring a seamless speed-to-market approach and unwavering consistency in manufacturing.

Her end-to-end process encompasses everything from sourcing raw materials to design and production, ensuring each piece meets the highest standards of quality, sustainability, and ethical craftsmanship. Passionate about eco-conscious fashion, Helen prioritizes natural fibers and water-based pigment prints, creating clothing, accessories, and textiles that align with the values of modern, environmentally conscious consumers and businesses.

By blending innovation with sustainability, she continues to shape the future of responsible fashion, offering timeless, high-quality products that make a positive impact on both people and the planet. Helen's commitment to ethical production sets a new benchmark in the industry.

Let’s do life together.

OYAMA GONINTEBE – DSAC young entrepreneur

Oyama Gonintebe is a rising fashion entrepreneur in South African fashion, blending contemporary design with her Xhosa heritage. A MR PRICE NEW TALENT SEARCH finalist in 2023, she gained industry recognition before showcasing her Autumn/Winter 2024 collection at South African Fashion Week (SAFW).

Her designs fuse traditional African aesthetics with modern silhouettes, integrating intricate beadwork, vibrant colors, and symbolic patterns. 

OG Brand reimagines Xhosa heritage, transforming iconic elements like the Umbhaco garment into contemporary fashion that honors its origins while appealing to today’s audience.

Inspired by Xhosa women's attire from the 1900s, this collection embraces sustainability and longevity. The designs reflect a time when clothing was crafted to last, deeply tied to cultural identity. By reinterpreting traditional patterns, textures, and symbolism, Oyama’s collection preserves heritage while embracing the future, offering timeless fashion with cultural depth.

E_MANIA - DSAC young entrepreneur

Kuhle Phumzile Zondo is the creative force behind E_mania, a fashion brand dedicated to cultural heritage preservation and environmental sustainability. In 2024, the brand's commitment to these values was recognized when Zondo was named a finalist for the Nicholas Coutts Artisanal Fashion Award by TWYG, highlighting her innovative approach to artisanal craftsmanship.

E_mania’s latest collection, "Wear Your Markings," is inspired by African tribal body markings, symbols of social status, identity, and heritage. The collection features bold digital prints of African women adorned with these markings, reinterpreted through modern graphic design.

By blending tradition with contemporary aesthetics, the collection encourages individuals to wear their heritage with pride. Through sustainable practices and cultural storytelling, E_mania continues to redefine fashion, making it a powerful tool for self-expression and connection to African roots.

VICTORI - DSAC young entrepreneur

Victoria Ongansie is a Namibian-born designer based in South Africa and the founder of VICTORI, a brand that embodies resilience, empowerment, and strength. Her journey into fashion was shaped by the challenges of growing up in a single-parent household, where perseverance became her guiding force.

After completing her fashion studies, she worked with local designers, refining her craft before launching VICTORI—a bold label that blends edgy, forward-thinking design with empowering messages. Each collection pushes boundaries, offering striking silhouettes and innovative materials while celebrating confidence, strength, and resilience.

"Fashion is not just about what we wear," Victoria states. "It’s about expressing who we are and overcoming every challenge with style and power."

Through VICTORI, she inspires individuals to rise above their circumstances, embracing victories born from determination and perseverance, creating a legacy of empowerment for all

SUN GODDESS

Sun Goddess is a luxury fashion and lifestyle brand deeply rooted in South African heritage, crafting timeless garments and accessories that embody the essence of the continent. Established in 2001, the brand was born from a vision to weave the regal narratives of South African traditions into fashion—brought to life through exquisite craftsmanship, rare textiles, and rich, distinctive color palettes.

Once hailed as "Afro-Gucci" by The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Sun Goddess continues to redefine African opulence, gracing the runways of fashion weeks across four continents. With an impressive legacy of over 50 awards, the brand and its founders have been recognized for excellence in design, customer service, and retail innovation.

More than fashion, Sun Goddess is an ode to Africa’s magnificence—a tribute to its stories, artistry, and timeless elegance that resonates across the globe.