On October 5th, 2025, the Fashion Circle sponsored by Crosse and Blackwell hosted a vibrant “Fashion Feast Brunch” at the picturesque Sand River Guesthouse in Sandton. This event served as a vital platform for elevating South African fashion, creating a warm atmosphere for attendees to share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations in the industry. The gathering brought together influential figures, including Ntombi Khambule, Chief of Operations at Thebe Magugu, Lele Dlamini, Creative Director of Ezokhetho, and Troy Molaiwa, a prominent fashion stylist, Leroy Marc who is a is a multifaceted professional excelling in law, content creation, marketing, and media, Mpho Mashigo who is a PR & talent manager among others.
Picture by Lethabo Machele
Despite South Africa’s wealth of talent, young and upcoming designers face significant hurdles. Central to the discussions at the brunch were issues surrounding gatekeeping, lack of exposure, and limited opportunities for emerging talent. Many designers expressed frustration over the barriers that often prevent them from gaining recognition in a competitive landscape dominated by established names.
The Reality of Gatekeeping
A major theme of the brunch was the concept of gatekeeping within the fashion industry. Many participants acknowledged that breaking into the fashion scene often requires connections and belonging to specific groups, which can make it difficult for new voices to be heard. One attendee articulated this sentiment perfectly: “You often have to belong to a certain clique for your work to be recognized. It’s seen as gatekeeping.”
Conversely, some attendees argued that established brands are hesitant to take risks on newcomers. “For me to introduce you to my connections, you first need to prove yourself to me,” one designer remarked, highlighting the paradox faced by young talent trying to enter an industry that often prefers the familiar over the innovative.
Picture by Lethabo Machele
The Role of Media and Exposure
The brunch also raised critical questions about the role of media in promoting young designers. Attendees pondered whether media outlets are doing enough to showcase new talent and report on the South African fashion landscape. The consensus seemed to be that while established brands receive ample attention, the unique perspectives and creations of emerging designers often go unnoticed.
Pathways to Success
Despite these challenges, the discussions yielded valuable insights for young and aspiring designers. Here are some key takeaways that can help navigate the fashion landscape:
1. Build a Strong Portfolio: Focus on showcasing a diverse range of your work to demonstrate your creative capabilities.
2. Strategic Networking: Attend industry events to connect with influential figures and peers who can help elevate your profile.
3. Leverage Social Media: Use platforms to showcase your designs, engage with audiences, and build a following that can attract potential collaborations.
4. Embrace Learning Opportunities: Participate in workshops, competitions, and collaborations to enhance your skills and gain experience.
5. Learn from Mistakes: The creative process involves experimentation. Don’t shy away from failures, as they often lead to the most significant growth.
Picture by Lethabo Machele
The Fashion Feast Brunch was more than just a stylish gathering; it sparked crucial conversations about the current state of the South African fashion industry. As young designers continue to face the challenges of gatekeeping and lack of visibility, forums like this are essential for fostering a supportive community. By sharing experiences, insights, and strategies, the fashion community can work together to create a more inclusive and vibrant future for African fashion.
In an exciting development, the Fashion Circle announced that it would be inviting consumers to attend future events. This initiative emphasizes the importance of understanding consumers’ pain points regarding the garments they receive from designers. By involving consumers in discussions, designers can gain valuable insights into preferences, expectations, and areas for improvement, fostering a more collaborative relationship between creators and their audience.
In a country rich with talent, it’s clear that the journey of a designer is filled with both obstacles and opportunities. With determination, creativity, and a supportive network, the next generation of South African designers is poised to make a significant impact on the global stage.
Picture by Lethabo Machele