Designers showcase for Durban July
Iene Price of Umtentweni joined Esayidi Fashion School through a two-week free skills development program.
Two Esayidi Fashion School students, aged over 50, proved to be some of the country’s finest fashion creatives as they made it to the Top 10 of the Hollywoodbets Durban July Young Designers Award competition.
The competition was presented by the Durban Fashion Fair last week.
Irene Price (52) and Nothile Mkhungo (57) beat over 25 semi-finalists to make the Top 10.
The final 10 was selected after 25 semi-finalists from accredited colleges across KZN displayed their interpretations of the ‘Marvels of Mzansi’ theme, depicting what it means to be South African, from the landscapes, entertainment and food, to traditional coming of age ceremonies.
Zamabhele Ntshangase of Esayidi Fashion School said they were excited that two of their students made it to the top 10, while two others made the semi-finals.
Ntshangase said Price is an award-winning seamstress and won best theme interpreter in 2024.
“Price is from Umtentweni. She joined Esayidi Fashion School through a two-week free skills development programme, which is run annually and makes a difference to 40 aspiring designers. “
Ntshangase said Mkhungo is a first-year student who bagged a spot in the top 10 after producing a high-quality garment depicting the theme.
“This year’s theme was broad, giving us variations for producing garments that are world-class and are recognised on the biggest fashion stage and horse racing event. We are so proud of all our students. This inspires us to continue shaping and directing fashion skills regardless of age, gender or race. And what was interesting this year is having designers aged over 50 in the top 10, since young people mostly enter the competition,” she said.
Vuyiseka Myoni (30), and Luyanda Nyandeni (23) made it to the top 25.
The Hollywood Foundation’s PRO Vuyisile Ngobese said these young designers captured the essence of the theme ‘Marvels of Mzansi’.
“They went all out, manufacturing and producing fabric, taking it to the edge, and they delivered,” said Ngobese.
Invited designer and judge Sandile ‘Duke’ Mngadi, said the huge number of call-backs before they got to the top 25 finalists emphasised the level of talent.
“The experience speaks volumes, not just for me as a designer, but for the growth of our industry and our fashion community. I was once a young designer myself. What Hollywoodbets Durban July is doing for young designers has never been seen before. This development stage is the most vital stage for any successful designer,” he said.
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