Why The South African Fashion Week?
Several prominent South African designers have consistently showcased their collections at South African Fashion Week (SAFW), using it as their primary marketing platform. These designers recognize the unique advantages SAFW offers in terms of industry credibility, media exposure, and business development.
They are:
Gert-Johan Coetzee – Known for his high-glamour designs and celebrity clientele. SAFW gives him a strong platform to reach both local and international markets.
Rubicon – A luxury womenswear brand that values SAFW for its exposure to buyers and media.
Mantsho by Palesa Mokubung – A designer whose brand has gone global, even collaborating with H&M. SAFW remains a key platform for brand storytelling.
Ephymol – Menswear designer with a bold aesthetic who has used SAFW to reach fashion-forward consumers.
Beach Cult – Joanna showcases her Beach Cult swimwear collection at SAFW, using the platform to highlight locally crafted, fashion-forward resort wear while benefiting from its global exposure, sustainability focus, and commitment to ethical production and artistic expression.
Thabo Makhetha – Recognized for her modern Basotho blanket designs, SAFW has helped position her as a leader in sustainable African fashion.
Michael Ludwig - Known For typically mix streetwear influences with a high-fashion sensibility.
Erre – A South African fashion label known for its elevated, modern designs that blend clean lines, sophistication, and subtle detailing.
The Bam Collective - focusses on contemporary fashion with strong artistic and conceptual elements.
Naked Ape – a Designer known for a brand that mixes urban streetwear with elements of African-inspired prints and bold patterns.
Viviers - known for its modern, luxurious, and sophisticated approach to fashion. The brand often incorporates sleek tailoring, minimalist silhouettes, and a neutral color palette, allowing for timeless pieces with an elegant, refined feel.
Helon Melon – Her designs are fresh, modern, and often feature asymmetry, unusual shapes, and structural elements.
Sun Goddess - Sun Goddess often integrates African-inspired prints and fabrics, mixing them with modern, international fashion trends to create a unique, wearable luxury aesthetic.
Amanda Laird Cherry – her collections frequently draw from local culture, incorporating South African fabrics and textures in a way that speaks to both global luxury and local craftsmanship.
Pret-A-Perfect - Pret-A-Perfect is a fashion-forward platform, showcasing whimsical, clean-cut designs while embracing inclusivity, individuality, and industry-leading exposure.
Why These Designers Use SAFW as Their Marketing Platform
Business-Driven Approach: SAFW is structured to support retail-focused designers, making it a valuable platform for designers looking to sell and scale.
Media Exposure: SAFW attracts local and international press, helping designers gain visibility.
Retail & Trade Opportunities: The SAFW Trade Show connects designers directly with buyers, increasing sales potential.
Sustainability Focus: Many designers appreciate SAFW's commitment to sustainable fashion, aligning with global industry trends.
Mentorship & Development: Programs like New Talent Search and Scouting Menswear Competition give young designers access to expert guidance.
Content Creation: SAFW provides designers with a platform to create timeless content that is seen by fashion experts globally.
For these reasons, designers see SAFW not just as a fashion showcase but as a business growth platform, helping them build sustainable brands in South Africa and beyond.
