MARVELS OF MZANSI: Young designers turn culture into couture
By Sitha Maliwa:
A spectacular celebration of South African identity unfolded on Saturday as ten standout student designers were named finalists in the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award presented by Durban Fashion Fair. This pivotal moment in the fashion calendar brought together emerging talent, industry veterans, and cultural flair in a runway showdown that reflected the theme: “Marvels of Mzansi.”
Held at the iconic Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse during the Hollywoodbets Gold Challenge, the event narrowed down 25 semi-finalists from fashion institutions across KwaZulu-Natal to a final group of ten. The young designers’ creations paid tribute to the vibrancy of South African culture, from its landscapes and cuisine to entertainment and tradi...