Runway Royalty: Celebrities Sizzle at Joburg Fashion Week 2023
Buhle Mbonambi
In the ever-interesting fashion world, where trends emerge and style icons are born, Joburg Fashion Week 2023 was a star-studded spectacle. The runway, typically reserved for seasoned models, witnessed a parade of celebrities, turning the spotlight from the designs to the celebrities who understood that they had to wear the clothes with unmatched charisma.
The celebrity fashion fever that gripped Joburg Fashion Week echoed a global trend, with designers increasingly opting for the allure of celebrity models. From Paris Hilton, Fan Bingbing, Thuso Mbedu and, Angela Bassett, to Hari Nef, Bonang Matheba, Aishwarya Rai, the runway has become a coveted stage for the world's most recognisable faces, and Johannesburg was no exception.
Joburg Fashion Week 2023 Unveils Celebrity Parade
Leading the charge was David Tlale, reminding everyone why he stands among Africa's couture elite. But it wasn't just Tlale's designs that stole the show. Walking down the runway in one of the showstopper looks was none other than Nigerian stylist and star of Netflix’s Young Famous & African, Swanky Jerry.
His presence on the runway caused a stir among onlookers as they couldn't believe their eyes, including his cast mates, Nadia Nakai and Fantana who screamed their approval when they saw him. With his striking features and impeccable style, Swanky Jerry commanded all attention, effortlessly showcasing Tlale's masterpiece.
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Londeka Buthelezi-Ndaba, the creative force behind the coveted Malondie brand continued the trend. Renowned for attracting starlets like a magnet, Buthelezi-Ndaba's show at Joburg Fashion Week was nothing short of a spectacle. Opening the show was the stylist Phupho Gumede, wearing a billowing cape and a two-piece playsuit, perfect for resort wear. His commanding presence set the tone for what was a high-wattage affair that ended with a standing ovation.
The runway continued to sparkle with the presence of South Africa's beloved personalities. Mihlali Ndamase, Sbahle Mpisane, Shai Lethabo, Nomthi Vithi, and Big Brother Titans sensation Yaya Mwanda graced the stage, each adding their unique flair to the fashion narrative.
Later that evening, Faith Nketsi, a vision in a gold column gown with an overskirt, stole the spotlight at Siphosihle Masango's show. As she glided down the runway, the lights dimmed, accentuating her regal presence.
On Saturday, the unexpected runway appearance of reigning Miss South Africa, Natasha Joubert, at the AFI Fastrack show for Botshelo Molete's Mekhukhu, added an extra layer of excitement to the fashion week. The beauty queen and fashion designer seamlessly opened the show, reminding everyone just why she won Miss South Africa 2023.
The star power didn't wane as the evening progressed. Bonko Khoza from "The Wife," Luthando Mthembu from "Adulting," TV presenter, Harmony Katulondi and Molife Kumona the editor of GQ South Africa, added their unique flair to Tshepo Rakale's Gvllvnt show.
There were audible gasps as Blue Mbombo took to the runway, and shut down the SCALO by Sello Medupe's show with poses that would make haute couture models take note. Her elegance and style added the perfect punctuation to an already glamorous night.
In a world where fashion and celebrity converge, Joburg Fashion Week 2023 was a testament to the seamless fusion of style and star power. The runway wasn't just a showcase for clothing; it was a stage where celebrities became the living embodiments of the designer's vision.