Excitement is mounting among the 22 emerging designers that have been selected to participate in the 2024 Durban Fashion Fair (DFF).

The DFF takes place from Wednesday September 18 to Friday September 20, at The Station Urban Event Space, in Stamford Hill Road, Durban. The mentees under the DFF Mentorship Programme will receive the opportunity of a lifetime by showcasing their collections to potential buyers. This is also an opportunity for them to launch their brands.

The DFF Mentorship Programme is in its 13th year. It is an initiative to grow the fashion industry in eThekwini and to create a platform for employment and entrepreneurship in the sector. Approximately 22 young, up-and-coming designers have been mentored for the past nine months by the Fezile Fashion Skill Academy.

They have received guidance on orientation and textile selection, with the training providing valuable information on manufacturing, brand management, costs, and how designers can enter the retail space.

Mentees have received weekly tasks preparing their collections to present to a larger audience of fashion buyers, the media, critics and the public at the annual DFF Fashion Show. The three mentees who present the best collections will receive prizes at the DFF Recognition Awards.

Two of the mentees shared their journey into fashion.

Nondumiso Mhlongo, or Ndlovukazi as she is commonly known, owns the Curved Ndlovukazi ladies wear brand.

“I was a teacher for 20 years, but I was always passionate about fashion and wanted to work in the industry. I am grateful to the impactful Fashion Development Programme which helped me to realise my dream,” she said

Self-taught designer Nokwazi Mkhize from Cato Ridge trades as Tailor Made by Kwazi.

“My style involves the latest fashion trends such as corset dresses and dyed fabric. I am excited to showcase my corset dress that represents the blooming stage of a flower at this year’s DFF which is my interpretation of the ‘Coming of Age’ theme,” Ms Mkhize said.

The three-day fashion extravaganza features 11 shows showcasing the talent of approximately 70 new and established designers from across Africa. There will also be a pop-up shop featuring locally manufactured fashion products.

Tickets cost R120 per show. There are also day passes available for R250 to attend all the shows on a day, while an all-inclusive three-day VIP pass costs R500. Book through Webtickets.

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Excitement builds for Durban Fashion Fair