A Preview of Bathini Designs Cape Town Fashion Week Collection
Bathini Kowane’s studio is alive with energy when the AFI team arrive for a preview of her latest collections.
For the first time, Bathini will showcase her work on the Cape Town Fashion Week runway, marking a significant milestone in her career. “I’ve never done a runway show in Cape Town before,” she admits. “This is my debut, and I couldn’t be more excited.”
Bathini made her AFI Fashion Week debut at Joburg Fashion Week in 2023, where she impressed with bespoke textiles and modern silhouettes.
As fabrics are draped and sketches come to life, the designer reflects on her journey in the fashion industry. “I’ve been in this business for eight years. Bathini Designs is my love letter to African heritage and luxury. I call it ‘African Luxe’ because it’s about blending our cultural richness with timeless sophistication.”
The upcoming collection is a testament to Bathini’s evolution as a designer. Her signature classic silhouettes are still at the heart of the brand, but there’s a fresh twist.
“I’m leaning into more relaxed, loose fits that are still sexy and elegant,” she explains. “Comfort is everything. I want women to feel good, move freely, and still look amazing.”
Her fabrics are as meaningful as her designs. Handmade in Tanzania where she works with a family who has been in textile development for generations , each textile tells a story of craftsmanship and care.
“We’ve developed new textiles for this range, focusing on quality and durability,” she says. “These are pieces that last—clothes you’ll reach for season after season.”
Bathini’s love for African culture is woven into every piece she creates. “I’ve always been inspired by how communities across Africa use clothing to express themselves,” she says.
“From the bold patterns of East and West Africa to the vibrant beadwork in South Africa, there’s so much beauty in how we adorn ourselves.”
This inspiration drives her to reimagine traditional African prints and silhouettes in a modern way. “I want African prints to feel like an everyday choice—something people wear proudly, not just on special occasions,” she says.
With Cape Town Fashion Week just around the corner, Bathini is busy finalising her collection. The excitement is tangible as she reflects on what this moment means.
“Showcasing at Cape Town Fashion Week is about more than just fashion—it’s about exposing my brand to a bigger audience and sharing our stories with the world,” she says.
Attendees can expect a stunning display of vibrant tones, flowing fabrics, and designs that are as rooted in heritage as they are forward-thinking.
“My hope is that people will see the love, effort, and respect for craft that goes into every piece,” Bathini adds.
Bathini Designs will showcase on 30 November 2024 during the House of Nala Collective Show alongside Alia Baré, Malondié at 12pm at the Hollywoodbets Kenilworth Racecourse.