Press Release: Cape Town Fashion Week A Celebration of FAME

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 IMAGES: https://tinyurl.com/CTFWImages

Cape Town, 4 December 2024 – Africa Fashion International (AFI) transformed the Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse into a vibrant hub of creativity for Cape Town Fashion Week, held from 29–30 November 2024.

This year’s theme, FAME (Fashion, Art, Music, and Entertainment), captivated the audience by showcasing the finest in African design, artistry, and innovation while prioritising sustainability.

The AFI Masterclass started proceedings on Friday. Gavin Rajah, Craig Port and Mia Le Roux shared the secrets to their resilience in the industry, highlighting the importance of authenticity, hard work, and focus.  The session was facilitated by Bloomberg Television’s Jennifer Zabasajja.

A presentation from the Boston Consulting Group spotlighted the transformative role of AI and emerging technologies in the fashion industry.  

The runway shows, introduced by the energetic Faith Mangope, were hosted in two outdoor venues and took full advantage of Cape Town's sunny skies, using natural daylight to minimise energy consumption while creating an immersive outdoor setting. The shows featured curated collections by Pan-African designers, showcasing the region’s commitment to sustainable fashion.

Miss South Africa 2024, Mia Le Roux, enthralled the audience in a gown inspired by Dr Esther Mahlangu's globally celebrated Ndebele art. The 89-year-old artist attended the event, expressing delight at seeing her work translated into fashion.

Crafted by AFI Atelier artisans, under the tutelage of AFI’s creative director, Gavin Rajah, the gown showcased cultural pride and artistic excellence, incorporating one of Mahlangu’s approved paintings. This collaboration celebrated the fusion of traditional art and contemporary fashion, honouring Mahlangu's enduring legacy in the art world.  

AFI Privé, AFI's in-house brand, unveiled its signature collection, created by AFI Fastrack Prize alumni Loice Dube and Keneuoe Mhletswa,  alongside designers Thulani Mlambo, and Thapelo Mokobane, under the mentorship of Rajah.

Rajah also showcased, ending the runway shows on a high, with ten looks from the Gavin Rajah Atelier’s latest couture collection.

There were several milestones celebrated at Cape Town Fashion Week. Craig Jacobs, returned to the AFI runway after 14 years, and celebrated 20 years of his sustainable brand, Fundudzi. He stayed true to his brand’s commitment to sustainability with a zero-waste collection. 

Also celebrating a major milestone was Craig Port, who celebrated 30 years in fashion. He presented his seamless evolution from menswear to womenswear with his Maze Collective brand. 

A vibrant musical programme complemented the fashion shows.  Performances by Western Cape SASCE Eisteddfod winners, Fezeka Secondary School, and musician, Xaviera were a great addition to the runway shows, enhancing the event’s energy.

Expanding its mission to make African luxury fashion accessible, AFI launched the House of Nala Premium Pop-Up Store at the One&Only Cape Town Resort. Nala, which means Abundance, brings together a curated selection of affordable luxury African fashion brands under one retail banner- the House of Nala.

The store features collections from Cape Town Fashion Week, which are also available at the flagship House of Nala store, Shop U47A, Upper Shopping Level in Sandton City and on the House of Nala online store.

AFI continues to stay true to its mission to elevate African fashion and to expand retail offerings, solidifying its status as a leader in highlighting the best fashion brands on the continent. Cape Town Fashion Week not only celebrated Africa’s vibrant creative industry, but also emphasised innovation, sustainability, and the continent’s cultural heritage.  

ENDS.

For additional information and media-related requests, please contact:

Roshnee Pillay
roshnee@afi.za.com