The Metro FM Music Awards 2026 delivered not only top-tier music moments but also unforgettable fashion. Held on Saturday, 25 April 2026 at the Durban ICC, the prestigious event once again brought Mzansi’s biggest stars together under the theme “Icon-Inspired Music Excellence.”
While the awards celebrated musical achievements, the red carpet became a stage for bold fashion, and Somizi Mhlongo made sure his designs took centre stage. The awards were hosted by Lerato Kganyago and Lawrence Maleka.
SOMIZI MHLONGO LEADS THE FASHION MOMENTS
Through his fashion label Sompire Femme, Mhlongo dressed several celebrities in striking, meaningful outfits that captured the essence of the night’s theme. His designs stood out for their storytelling, detail, and bold execution.
From intricate beadwork to dramatic silhouettes, Somizi’s creations proved that fashion can honour legacy while still pushing boundaries.
SOMPIRE FEMME DRESSES LIYEMA PANTSI
One of the standout looks of the evening came from award-winning artist and influencer Liyema Pantsi, who attended the awards for the first time. Somizi designed her dress as a tribute to the late Lebo Mathosa, reflecting the icon’s fearless and unapologetic energy.
Liyema shared her experience online, writing: “My first #MetroAwards. This year’s theme is “Icon-Inspired Music Excellence” celebrating the legends who shaped us, while making space for the next generation to rise. And for me, there was only one choice… Lebo Mathosa.
She was fearless. Bold. Unapologetic. She owned every room she walked into. As a musician, I look at her and I’m reminded that it’s okay to take up space, to be loud with your dreams, and to fully become the woman you see in your heart.
So tonight isn’t just about an outfit… it’s about stepping into that energy. Even with the nerves, even with the pressure, even with the “am I ready?” thoughts. Because maybe becoming her starts with showing up anyway.
Thank you so much to @somizi for this incredible dress you made me feel powerful.
Here’s to honoring the icons, and becoming one.”
KHUTSO THELEDI AND ZOLA MHLONGO SHINE
Radio presenter Khutso Theledi also embraced Somizi’s vision in a custom Sompire Femme design. She thanked him for the opportunity, writing:
“Music Xcellence: Honouring Icons… and being dressed by one
@sompire_femme by @Somizi, thank you for saying yes and for trusting me to wear your vision, I trusted every step, and what a moment this became.”
Zola Mhlongo followed suit in a powerful, intricately crafted look dedicated to legendary musician Busi Mhlongo. The dress, which took 12 weeks to complete, highlighted heritage and artistry.
Zola shared: “NOMANE THE LEGACY. 3 Generations of talent. This is not just a dress. It’s an art piece that will be enjoyed for generations to come. Paying homage to Mam Busi Mhlongo. 12 weeks of dangling beads. Crafted by the gifted Morgan Mahape @mahapemorgan and designed by Somizi for @sompirefemme Modelled by the daughter of Bhebhe Makhedama. Khulemini. Mhlongo.”
GOLD GLAMOUR FROM LONDIE LONDON
Londie London also turned heads in a bold gold gown by Sompire Femme. She confidently shared:
“All Gold. All Nerve. All Pressure.They said be humble. I said be unforgettable. Gold on my body, fire in my spirit, and zero room for doubt.”
SOMIZI MHLONGO WEARS HIS OWN DESIGN
The fasion designer, Somizi Mhlongo didn’t just design standout looks for others, he also showed up in his own creation. He stepped onto the red carpet in a bold, eye-catching outfits that reflected his signature style and fearless approach to fashion.