The AFI Young Designers Weave Magic on the Miss SA 2024 Stage
From a canvas of pristine white to a breathtaking spectrum of colour, the dresses designed by AFI's young designers, transformed the Miss South Africa Top 10 finalists into modern-day goddesses.
As they graced the stage, draped in ethereal chiffon gowns adorned with beads and fresh blooms, they seemed to bloom with their wearers, creating an enchanting spectacle that was as much a visual poem as a fashion statement.
The finalists were serenaded by the iconic South African poet, Lebo Mashile, a true reflection of the goddesses that they were in their gowns.
As Mashile's words painted vivid imagery, the finalists became living embodiments of her poetry, their movements graceful and their presence commanding. It was an enchanting spectacle that was as much a visual poem as a fashion statement.
We spoke to the AFI designers who were the creative force behind these show-stopping ensembles at the Miss SA 2024 finale.
"We wanted to give a glimpse of what clients can expect from the the in-house design team at AFI," said lead designers Thulani Mlambo and Kene Mhletswa.
"The Miss South Africa platform allowed us to showcase our capabilities and vision. Our vision was to create gowns that were not just garments, but expressions of the modern South African woman. We wanted to capture their strength, beauty, and aspiration.”
The gowns were a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Intricate beadwork, a testament to age-old African craftsmanship, adorned the dresses, transforming the finalists into contemporary African goddesses.
"We wanted to incorporate a touch of Africa into the modern aesthetic," explained Mlambo and Mhletswa. "The beadwork was our way of honouring the past while looking to the future."
The inspiration for the Grecian theme emerged from a collaboration with Miss SA's creative director, Werner Wessels. "We followed the brief and interpreted the designs to capture the airy, flowing essence of a goddess," said the designers.
Each gown told a story of aspiration and empowerment. "We wanted the finalists to feel like they were floating on clouds," shared Mlambo and Mhletswa. "The lightweight fabrics and ethereal design embodied the journey of a young woman striving for greatness."
The creation of these gowns involved meticulous craftsmanship and a selection of luxurious materials. "We used white chiffon, barbie suiting, and Armani silk," explained the designers. "These fabrics provided the perfect foundation for the intricate beadwork and ombre effect."
The gowns left a lasting impression on the audience. They were a testament to the young designers' talent and creativity, showcasing the power of fashion to transform and inspire, while honouring the rich tapestry of African heritage.