ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
16 JULY 2025
APPLY NOW TO SHOWCASE AT ANNUAL DURBAN FASHION FAIR
EThekwini Municipality invites designers from across South Africa to apply for the opportunity to showcase their designs at the 14th annual Durban Fashion Fair (DFF).
The DFF, which is one of Africa’s influential fashion events, will take place from 17 to 19 September at The Station Urban Event Space.
Applications are now open and close on 31 July 2025.
The showcase is part of the City's broader commitment to developing the creative industry and empowering entrepreneurs in the fashion sector.
Apply online via: https://forms.gle/BU1QnL3QCxNmCPp38
With the theme, “The Awakening”, the DFF 2025 promises to shine the spotlight on bold creativity, while celebrating local talent and amplifying both new and established voices in the fashion space.
Over the past decade, the DFF has grown into a vital platform, not only showcasing fashion but shaping careers.
Many past participants have gained access to buyers, business partnerships, and international opportunities.
Makhosi Ntshangase of Sista Fellas, a 2019 DFF mentee and Rising Star winner, credits the showcase for successfully launching her career.
“Apart from the equipment I received, DFF was my key to unlocking doors of opportunity. I learned the business of fashion, networked, and eventually signed a consignment deal with Edgars. I encourage both emerging and established designers to seize this opportunity as it can elevate your brand.”
Ntshangase, together with her sister Zamabhele, also a DFF alumna from 2018, have gone on to open a fashion school which was accredited by the Fibre Processing and Manufacturing SETA last year.
“Two of our students were in the top 10 of the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designer Award, which is a student competition. Our success is thanks to eThekwini Municipality’s continued support.”
Zama Gumede, founder of Zavior Fashion House, said the DFF has been part of her journey for 10 years.
Speaking on the difference it has made in her life, she said: “In 2020, I showcased a blue and white collection and was discovered by Icon Clothing who attended the DFF. They are a boutique located in Polokwane’s Mall of the North. They have been one of my biggest clients since. This year I have already supplied them twice with large orders.”
Another success story is Mxolisi Mkhize, founder of House of St Luke.
He said: “Last year was a turning point. After being scouted at the show, I was approached to be the wardrobe and costume designer for the Gospel Crown Awards and commissioned to create 80 looks for Miss and Mr Durban University of Technology 2024. DFF consistently delivers real opportunities.”
Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Thembo Ntuli reaffirmed the City’s investment in the programme.
“As eThekwini Municipality, we invest in fashion because it drives inclusive economic development and job creation. The programme supports radical economic transformation by empowering emerging creatives,” he said.
“This year, 24 emerging designers have received training and mentorship since March, covering both creative and business aspects. These mentees will have the opportunity to showcase at the DFF in September,” added Councillor Ntuli.
For more information, contact Nondumiso Mthembu on 031 311 4500 or email nondumiso.mthembu@durban.gov.za
Follow the fashion conversation on Facebook (DurbanFashionFair) and X /Instagram (@Dbnfashion_fair).
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate.
