South African Fashion Week (SAFW), currently in its 27th year, is a powerful testament to how far the country’s fashion industry has come. From its early days in 1997, SAFW has evolved into a globally recognised platform that champions local designers, promoting innovation while preserving cultural heritage. The 2024 edition of SAFW is not only a celebration of fashion but also a reflection of how deeply embedded the industry has become in South Africa’s identity. This year’s collections further exemplify the richness and diversity of South African creativity, bringing together both established and emerging talent.

At the forefront of SAFW’s Autumn/Winter 2025 showcases are several key figures who continue to push the boundaries of fashion:

Gert-Johan Coetzee

A staple in South African fashion, Coetzee has once again dazzled with his latest collection at SAFW. Fresh from London Fashion Week, his designs this year pay homage to South Africa’s cultural heritage. Known for his luxurious, high-glamour garments, Coetzee consistently incorporates local elements into his work, making him a beloved figure both locally and internationally.

Thabo Makhetha

Celebrated for her Basotho-inspired outerwear, Makhetha’s work represents the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Her signature *Basotho blanket coats* have garnered international attention, becoming a symbol of African luxury. Makhetha’s designs showcase the beauty of South Africa’s craftsmanship while making bold fashion statements on global runways

Alca

This eco-conscious label is all about sustainability and minimalism. Alca’s collections are characterized by clean lines, neutral palettes, and a timeless aesthetic that speaks to the environmentally conscious consumer. In an industry often criticized for its environmental impact, Alca provides a refreshing take on fashion by promoting ethical production practices

Fikile Zamagcino Sokhulu

A rising star in the South African fashion world, Sokhulu is quickly making a name for herself with her intricate designs that celebrate African craftsmanship. Her collections are a fusion of bold prints, textured fabrics, and hand-crafted details, encapsulating the richness of South Africa’s artisanal heritage. Sokhulu’s work is a testament to how young designers are drawing from traditional roots to create contemporary masterpieces

The Future of South African Fashion

While designers like Coetzee and Makhetha continue to set the standard, a new generation of talent is equally exciting and flying the South African high. The future of South African fashion is bright, with several designers pushing creative boundaries and challenging norms. 

Here are a few to watch:

Sindiso Khumalo – Known for her sustainable approach and African-inspired prints, Khumalo has become a global name in recent years. Her designs emphasize sustainability, social justice, and women’s empowerment, and her work has been featured at Paris Fashion Week.

Thebe Magugu – A young designer who’s taken the world by storm, Magugu won the prestigious LVMH Prize in 2019. His work blends high fashion with narratives around African identity, often addressing issues of politics, gender, and heritage through his designs.

 Rich Mnisi – Known for his avant-garde style and fearless approach to fashion, Mnisi is one of South Africa’s most exciting designers. His bold use of color and innovative silhouettes have made him a favorite among fashionistas looking for something daring and different.

South Africa’s fashion industry has come a long way, from being largely overlooked to becoming a key player on the global stage. Events like SAFW are instrumental in propelling the country’s designers forward, showcasing the best of what South African fashion has to offer. With established designers like Gert-Johan Coetzee continuing to inspire, and talents like Thebe Magugu and Fikile Sokhulu pushing the envelope, South African fashion is a perfect reflection of the country’s diversity, creativity, and resilience.