The Stadio Annual Student Fashion Show is a much-anticipated event on the South African fashion calendar, showcasing the creativity and talent of the next generation of designers and the future of South African fashion.

This year’s event did not disappoint, presenting a rich tapestry of themes that speak to sustainable and eco-friendly fashion practices and great collections. The showcase featured six themes: Grow, Smart Stripes, Future Utility, Retro Luxe, Urban Streets, and the open ranges from the 3rd year BA in Fashion Students. Here’s a breakdown of the standout collections from the show.

Urban Streets: Denim Meets South African Culture

The second-year students showcased a vibrant collection created in collaboration with Levi’s Africa. Upcycled Demin was the star of the show, reflecting a commitment to innovation and sustainability, while the designs embraced and celebrated the vibrancy and diversity of South African street culture.

This collection was a striking tribute to the spirit of urban youth.

Grow: Nature-Inspired Elegance

The Higher Certificate students captivated the audience with Grow, a collection deeply rooted in nature. The soft silhouettes and eco-conscious elements brought this collection to life. From earthy tones to flowing fabrics, each piece reminded us of the importance of a harmonious relationship with the environment. This collection highlights the ability to inspire sustainability while remaining effortlessly chic.

.Open Ranges by Third-Year Students

The pinnacle of the show came from the third-year students, whose open ranges offered a breathtaking display of their individuality and the beauty of unrestricted creativity.

The open ranges from the third-year students celebrated the diverse voices of South Africa’s next generation of fashion, with honourable mentions, to the following designers, whose exceptional talent and creativity made a lasting impression.

Corli Bruwer

One of the standout moments of the show was the delightful children’s collection by Corli Bruwer. This collection balanced comfort with retro charm. The designs consisted of earthy tones like mustard yellow and emerald green, paired with whimsical patterns such as textured knits.

The practical yet stylish outfits included cosy sweaters and overalls, and fun details such as the patchwork added a youthful touch to the collection—a delightful celebration of childhood joy and creativity.

Mbali Zungu

Pushing the boundaries of traditional design, this collection by Mbali Zungu was bold. Cream and burnt-orange hues dominated the runway, with standout pieces including a dress adorned with hoop-like structures. This range blended historical influences and modern artistry, proving that fashion can be wearable and an innovative form of self-expression and creativity.

The Stadio Annual Fashion is a powerful testament to the creativity and innovation of South Africa’s emerging designers. Through their collections, the students made one thing clear: the future of fashion is in capable and creative hands. This year’s show set a high bar, leaving us eager to see what these designers will achieve next.