Emerging talent takes centre stage at Khayelitsha Fashion Week

Forget the idea that great fashion only comes from glossy studios or international runways. 

Every year, Khayelitsha Fashion Week (KFW) proves that some of South Africa’s most exciting creativity is being stitched, sketched and brought to life right in the heart of Khayelitsha.

Now in its 11th year, the event has grown into far more than just a fashion show. It’s a platform for aspiring designers, photographers and models to showcase their skills.

Founded by broadcaster Bongani Mathenjwa, KFW has spent more than eight years creating opportunities for creatives who struggle to access the mainstream fashion industry.

Trash to Trend

This year’s edition, taking place on Saturday, 18 July at the Artscape Theatre Centre in the CBD, promises another high-energy celebration of style, innovation and community. 

Professionally produced with a full runway, dramatic lighting, performances and trained models, the event delivers all the glamour of a major fashion showcase while staying true to its grassroots mission.

The 2026 theme, ‘Trash to Trend’, puts sustainability front and centre. Designers are challenged to transform discarded and recycled materials into runway-ready garments, proving that creativity doesn’t depend on expensive fabrics. 

It also sends a powerful message about environmental responsibility, showing how fashion can be both beautiful and conscious.

Spotlighting emerging designers

This year’s showcase features 12 emerging designers, including participants from Durban, the Eastern Cape and across Cape Town. 

Their collections reflect not only technical skill but also the diverse stories, cultures and perspectives that make South African fashion so distinctive.

Local is lekker

KFW has always been about more than clothes.

For many young creatives, it’s a first opportunity to present their work on a professional runway, network with industry insiders and gain the confidence to pursue fashion as a career. 

Models gain valuable runway experience, photographers build portfolios, and makeup artists, stylists and production teams all play a role in bringing the event to life. 

Every show becomes a collaborative effort that strengthens the local creative economy. That sense of community is what continues to set KFW apart.

It celebrates local success, encourages entrepreneurship and creates positive visibility for a township better known in headlines for its challenges than its achievements.

Dressed to the nines

Audiences are encouraged to embrace the occasion by dressing up for the red-carpet experience before the show begins. 

As Cape Town continues to establish itself as one of Africa’s leading creative cities, KFW reminds us that innovation isn’t confined to city-centre studios or luxury labels.

Sometimes it begins in neighbourhood workshops, community spaces and the determined hands of young designers with a vision.

More info

• Saturday, 18 July at the Artscape Theatre Centre
• The Red Carpet experience starts at noon; fashion show commences at 1pm
• No under-18s allowed
• Ticket prices from R150, bookings via Webtickets
• Visit www.khayelitshafashionweek.co.za

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