• More than a fashion extravaganza.
• Identity, heritage, and resilience.
• Prepare, Develop, Establish and Showcase.
• Inclusive and Sustainable.
• A Fashionable Future.

Khayelitsha Fashion Week 2023, held at ARTSCAPE in Cape Town May 6th 2023, was more than a fashion extravaganza. Indeed, it came through strong as an extraordinary showcase of creativity, talent, and cultural expression. More importantly, it has become a powerful platform for nurturing local creativity, celebrating diversity, and promoting economic empowerment within the community.

Khayelitsha is a vibrant township located on the outskirts of Cape Town. The event is a distillation of all that is the township, its history, struggle, determination, and fusion of traditions by all who have made it home. Consequently, it speaks to a dynamic authenticity in the voices from emerging fashion designers, models, stylists, and artisans from within the township and beyond.

Identity, heritage, and resilience.

In the heart of Khayelitsha Fashion Week is its commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of the community. From the vibrant patterns and colours inspired by Xhosa traditions to the contemporary fusion of urban and rural aesthetics, the runway was alive with a kaleidoscope of fashion statements, manifestos and cultural intent. Each garment fully absorbed a story, intertwining the past with the present and offering a glimpse into the dreams and aspirations of the designers themselves. And from the exuberant reception of ranges, each show became a celebration of identity, heritage, resilience and a collective experience for both audience and designers. In the commerce of Fashion, this was both extraordinary and revolutionary.

Prepare, Develop, Establish and Showcase.

Khayelitsha Fashion Week is intentional with its goals, and this year was no different. With its call to arms – ‘Prepare, Develop, Establish and Showcase’ – it strategically provided a platform for emerging designers to showcase their work and gain exposure. Some recently had graduated from fashion schools, others were self-taught, but all bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the industry.

For local Artisans who specialize in traditional crafts such as beadwork, embroidery, or weaving and infuse their traditional skills and techniques into contemporary fashion, creating unique and culturally significant pieces, the platform veered in the direction of Fine Art. It allowed the audience to access their heritage in a way that proudly celebrated their identity.

Empowering emerging designers.

“On a very practical level, the key objective of Khayelitsha Fashion Week is to provide a platform for aspiring designers, many who face significant challenges in accessing formal education or resources within the fashion industry”, said Bongani Matenjwa, founder of the event. Through workshops, mentorship programs, and collaborations with established designers, the event offers invaluable opportunities for talent development and professional growth. This nurturing environment empowers emerging designers to unleash their creativity, refine their skills, and gain exposure to a wider audience.

First time Khayelitsha Fashion Week participant, designer Ayabonga Buhlungu said,” I’m so excited for the opportunity to showcase my work. People can expect a bit of streetwear, and a little bit of a traditional. The name of my brand is Aya Clothing, and I hope to be well known as a brand nationally, not known only in Khayelitsha”. Also showcasing for the first time was designer Sive Roji. “I am excited to share my new collection called Pantsula New Era, it’s an evolution of the amapantsula lifestyle and kwaito sound updated with an amampiano twist”.

Beyond the runway, Khayelitsha Fashion Week actively supports the development of local businesses and entrepreneurship. As such, the event also provides a marketplace where designers and artisans can showcase and sell their creations directly to attendees and potential buyers, as well as create a professional space for investors to view collections. This direct connection not only bolsters the local economy but also encourages a sense of pride and ownership within the community. By investing in local talent and enterprises, Khayelitsha Fashion Week fosters economic empowerment and contributes to the township’s sustainable growth.

Inclusive and Sustainable.

The event embraces inclusivity and diversity, challenging societal norms and redefining traditional beauty standards. Models of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds grace the runway, sending a powerful message of acceptance and self-love. By showcasing the beauty in individuality, Khayelitsha Fashion Week inspires its audience to embrace their unique identities and celebrate diversity within their own lives.

In addition to its social impact, the importance of sustainability and ethical practices within the fashion industry are championed. Designers are encouraged to incorporate eco-friendly materials, repurpose fabrics, and prioritize ethical production methods. By promoting sustainability, the event aims to shift perspectives and encourage a more conscious approach to fashion consumption.

A Fashionable Future.

Khayelitsha Fashion Week has the potential to become a catalyst for change within the broader fashion industry. By highlighting the talent and creativity that thrives outside of conventional fashion hubs, the event challenges the dominant narrative and amplifies voices that have long been overlooked. This celebration of diversity and cultural expression sets a precedent, inspiring other fashion weeks and events to embrace a more inclusive and representative approach. The impact and legacy of this cultural incubator continues to reverberate throughout the community. Indeed, the event has transformed the lives of countless individuals, fostering a sense of pride, empowerment, and possibility. For South Africa, with its unique make-up, demographics and socio-economic issues, this is part of the future of Fashion.