The spotlight is officially on! Six top designers have been chosen to lead the fashion front at the 2025 Hollywoodbets Durban July Invited Designer Showcase presented by Dove — and five of them are proudly homegrown talents from KwaZulu-Natal.
Representing the province in full colour and creativity are Kathrin Kidger, Zama Mathe (Zarth), Sandile Mngadi (Duke), Sicelo Dlezi (Yatsar Fashion House), and Zama Gumede (Zavier). Joining them from Johannesburg is dynamic husband-and-wife duo Nobukhozi and Thabo Mukwevho of the celebrated label Khosi Nkosi, fresh from showcasing at Paris and Milan Fashion Weeks.
This showcase is always a standout on the Durban July calendar — a perfect fusion of fashion, imagination, and race-day glam. And this year’s theme, “Marvels of Mzansi,” is set to ignite bold statements and unforgettable designs.
A Stage for Homegrown Excellence
Tiffany Prior, Gold Circle’s fashion programme director, couldn’t hide her excitement:
“We’re thrilled to have such an incredible mix of talent this year. From the cutting-edge creativity of Duke and Zarth to the elegance of Yatsar and Zavier, and the global flair of Khosi Nkosi — it’s going to be spectacular.”
The selection was not just about style, but about heart. Zama Gumede and Sicelo Dlezi were handpicked by Durban Fashion Fair for their longstanding support and consistent excellence at the HDJ. And Omoda, the futuristic car brand, hand-selected Khosi Nkosi as a proud fashion partner.
Designs With a Story to Tell
Every designer brings something special. Sandile Mngadi’s Duke label is expected to deliver originality that speaks to the soul of the theme. Zama Mathe, a veteran in the industry, is sure to wow with surprises. And Kathrin Kidger, ever inspired, even wrote a poem — “Of Bone and Ash” — to express her creative vision for this year’s show.
The Countdown Begins: Durban July 2025 to Celebrate the “Marvels of Mzansi” in Grand Style
Speaking about the opportunity, Kidger said:
“It’s always an honour to be invited into this magical fashion circle. Every year, the platform grows and inspires us to push boundaries. It’s more than just clothes — it’s storytelling through fabric.”
For Sicelo Dlezi, founder of Yatsar Fashion House, the experience is nothing short of life-changing:
“This opportunity will put my brand on a bigger map, even internationally. I’m so grateful for the trust and belief shown in me.”
Born in Ulundi and a graduate in clothing design, Dlezi started Yatsar as a ready-to-wear label for women of all ages. Since 2018, he has grown from DFF mentee to international showcase star, with collections in Namibia, Turkey, and more.
What’s Next?
Fashion lovers, mark your calendars — the exclusive creations from these six design stars will be revealed from May 30. And come Saturday, 5 July, all eyes will be on Hollywoodbets Greyville, where these visionaries will bring Marvels of Mzansi to life.
The runway is ready. The designers are inspired. And the nation is watching.
Let the fashion begin.
