Local Designers Shine at Miss SA Regional Finals

Last Friday, Durban's top fashion designers went crown to crown with their latest collections de mode in a competition to dress Miss South Africa 2018. This spectacular event was presented by Sun International and Cell C. Women 360 is one of the top Women's eventsin Durban, which saw women coming together to celebrate every aspect of life. Encouraging women to engage explore and empower themselves.

Some of the elite fashion designers with a few new and upcoming talents that took to the stage where Zama Mathe, Karen Monk-Klinstra, Treasure Cindi, Catherine Wanjohi, Natalie Rautenbach and Nduduzo Mgobhozi.

The new kid on the block, the beautiful mom of three Catherine Wanjohi's collection came dancing down the ramp to the beat of Brenda Fassi's, Vulindlela. "Open The Gates" carried the energy of the purely African designs and the energy of the Young Amaasai brides. A remarkable vibrant African collection paired with authentic beadwork headpieces. Her garments told a story of the journey of young Amaasai brides meeting their grooms.

Being a stay at home mum and a designer, Catherine still finds the time to volunteer at a local self-help group of young artisans from the townships that designs everything from bags, clothes, jewelry to sandals. Her Label Zingeafrika was born out of the passion that she developed during her voluntary work. She soon realized that to produce a garment with accessories was very time consuming, so she met up with young artists in Shakashead, Shakaskraal and Stanger, where they joined forces and enthusiasm, to work together.

"We love colours and we love experimenting with different designs. We do not just design pretty attires or accessories, our designs tell a story and we translate our thoughts in the pieces. As a team, I can say we are passionate and experience lot of fun and it does not feel like work."

The two finalist chosen at this glamorous event where Nduduzo Mgobhozi (Maurice Hosi) and Treasure Cindi. They will be competing with designers from other provinces for the prestigious honour of dressing Miss SA 2018.

Treasure Cindi describes his style as clean lines and silhouettes with reference to the past, but aimed at modern day society. He was one of the Durban designers who travelled to Milan as part of the eThekwini Municipality Business support Tourism and fashion development program in 2013. Cindy caused much excitement at the Durban fashion fair 2015 and the ripples may take him very far in this industry.

Nduduzo was born and still lives in eNanda. He studied fashion design at Durban University of Technology. He is a very passionate artist and explains in his own words where the magic touches his soul: "I love how I can create with minimal restrictions. I live for the moment my clients see themselves in my creation for the first time, you just can't buy that expression."

So ladies find that dress that matches your vibe and leave behind a lasting presence even after you have gone.