Student scoops first place for fashion design at Durban July

The Hollywood Bets Durban July at Greyville Racecourse on Saturday became a vibrant display of style, perfectly capturing this year's theme, “Ride the Wave”.

Local designers showcased their creativity and innovation, claiming top spots in multiple categories.

In the prestigious Young Designer of the Year award, Pietermaritzburg's own Krishan Ramdewu, a third-year student at the Pietermaritzburg School of Fashion, secured first place with his coral-inspired sculpted creation.

Ramdewu's victory earned him a R50 000 bursary from Hollywoodbets, a total of R15 000 in cash prizes from Gold Circle and Schweppes, and a ticket to SA Fashion Week.

Ramdewu expressed his excitement and disbelief, highlighting the challenges he faced as a part-time student working on his garment late into the night.

“I never expected to win. I only had a few hours after work to work on my garment. I slept at 3am on the morning of the first judgment and woke up at 5am to go to work before heading to Durban. It was a lot of pressure.”

He sees this recognition as a life-changing opportunity and aspires to create a distinctive brand known for its uniqueness and creativity.

Olwethu Payi from the Durban University of Technology took second place, while another Pietermaritzburg designer, Sphesihle Mkhize, a second-year fashion student at Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College, Northdale Campus, secured third place.

Mkhize, 22, from Dambuza, expressed his pride and hope that this achievement would boost his fashion career.

“It means a lot to me to know I made it to the top three out of 100 designers,” Mkhize said. “I hope this inspires other young designers and youth to believe that anything is possible with dedication and hard work.”

Pietermaritzburg School of Fashion managing director Nivasha Bhika expressed immense pride in her students' achievements.

“Our school has been prominent in this competition for the past four years,” Bhika said.

“We secured top positions last year and in 2022, and we also placed first in 2021.”

Another highlight for the school was East Coast Radio presenter Carmen Reddy donning a design by student Smangele Mbanjwa at this year's Durban July.

Pietermaritzburg also celebrated victory in the Most Striking Couple category, with Samkelo Makhubalo and Sanele Mthethwa taking first prize. Their Titanic and Pirates of the Caribbean-inspired look wowed the judges. Makhubalo explained that they used calico and spray paint to create a unique and edgy ensemble.

In the women's classic racewear category, Pietermaritzburg's Ntandokazi Mncwabe claimed first prize with her octopus-inspired design. Her exceptional outfit earned her a R5 000 prize from Gold Circle and Schweppes and a R2 500 gift card from Gateway Theatre of Shopping.