Forty South African designers came together to show off their Autumn/Winter 2025 collections at SA Fashion Week, which took place from 26 – 28 September at Melrose Arch, Johannesburg. This was my first time attending one of the biggest fashion events in the country and I was in awe of the diversity and inclusivity of the models who walked the runway.
Here’s a look inside my three-day fashion week experience.
SA FASHION WEEK DAY ONE
The first day of SA Fashion Week was certainly the most exciting for me. I arrived at Melrose Arch by 18:15 for the 19:00 show. Upon arrival, media guests were given tags and tickets for the first show, which also gave us access to the Leading Lights VIP lounge.
There were activations by ISUZU Luxury Vehicle Experience, L’Oreal Paris, Mr Price, and Cruz Vodka. Each show came with a cocktail voucher, with four different options.
There were four shows on the first night. The first featured collections by Thabo Makhetha and Fikile Sokhulu. This was followed by Artho Eksteen, Michael Ludwig Studio and Pret-a-Perfect. Michael Ludwig Studio stood out for me with exceptional execution on the runway and a beautiful collection. The third show featured Erre, Ephymol and The Bam Collective.
Beloved South African designer Gert-Johan Coetzee then closed the show with his London Fashion Week collection. South African model Yasmin Furmie, who challenges ageism, took to the runway on day one.
SA FASHION WEEK DAY TWO
On the second day of SA Fashion Week, there were four shows. This saw the following designers take to the stage:
- Floyd Avenue
- Belhauzen
- House of Ole
- Naked Ape
- Viviers
- Helon Melon
- Ngingu
- Rubicon
- Ellen Madie
- E_Mania
- Potrends
- Sixx6
SA FASHION WEEK DAY THREE
On day three of SA Fashion Week, I was treated to a night’s stay at the luxurious Southern Sun Hyde Park. I was greeted by friendly staff upon arrival, who then upgraded by room to a Superior Room, which included a beautiful view of the city.
The hotel also had a stunning rooftop pool.
The Southern Sun Hyde Park is known for their nightlife on weekends. You can often find a DJ on Fridays and Saturdays with good music as well as canapés. The high-end area is also treasured by many because of the safety and security.
Day three of SA Fashion Week had a total of five shows. This kicked off with a few designers – Sinchui, Candid, Rebirth, The Trendsetter from the North, Thobey Cooper, Undefined Outdoor Clothing, Victori, Waalid, Yung Blood Apparel. This was followed by Mantsho, Imprint, Sober, Afrikanswiss, Mina- Mozambique Fashion Week, Sun Goddess.
Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa closed the show with her Essie Apparell line.
WHAT DID YOU THINK OF SA FASHION WEEK?
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