Work in Cape Town – Khayelitsha Fashion Week Turns 10 with a Decade of Style

Work in Cape Town is as much about creativity as it is about collaboration. This was on full display on June 7th as Khayelitsha Fashion Week (KFW) celebrated its 10th anniversary at the Artscape Theatre – a glittering showcase of township talent, innovation, and style.

A Decade of Fashion and Empowerment

Founded by Bongani Matenjwa, the well-known Zibonele FM presenter, Khayelitsha Fashion Week has evolved from a grassroots initiative into one of Cape Town’s most anticipated fashion events. Over the past decade, it has become a vital platform for emerging designers, photographers, and models—many from Khayelitsha and surrounding communities—to showcase their talent and grow their careers.

Timeless Style Takes the Stage

This year’s milestone edition, aptly themed “Decade of Style,” took place in the elegant Chandelier Foyer of the Artscape Theatre. Sixteen designers presented collections that merged cultural heritage with modern innovation, proving that township design is both timeless and trendsetting.

Among the standout names were Owakui Boutique, Modest Temple, Eternal Legacy, and Zero Tolerance – all demonstrating craftsmanship and vision that rival any global runway. Many of these creatives honed their skills at leading local institutions like the Design Academy of Fashion, Northlink College, and Cape Town Fashion School, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a hub for design excellence.

Celebrating Community and Collaboration

The event drew a diverse crowd, including fashion enthusiasts, civic leaders, and media. Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis and Artscape CEO Marlene le Roux attended the show, adding civic pride to an event that champions empowerment through artistry. Their participation underscored the growing recognition of KFW as a vital contributor to Cape Town’s creative economy.

Partnerships That Empower

KFW’s success is powered by strong partnerships, including support from the City of Cape Town, Artscape, Zibonele FM, MTN, and SABC Education. Together, these organisations have created an ecosystem that nurtures creativity while driving entrepreneurship and cultural growth. Beyond the runway, KFW offers mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities to help emerging creatives access broader markets and build sustainable businesses.

The Future of Fashion in Cape Town

As the lights dimmed and the final model left the runway, one thing was clear: Khayelitsha Fashion Week is no longer just a show—it’s a movement. After a decade of celebrating design, diversity, and empowerment, its influence continues to ripple across Cape Town’s creative landscape, proving that the city’s future in fashion is bright, inclusive, and unstoppable.

Learn more about working and creating in Cape Town here.

This article has been adapted from the original piece published in This is Cape Town Magazine, Volume 5, specifically for the blog. To view the original article, click here or read the full magazine online at www.thisis.capetown/resources.