Three award-winning fashion designers from KZN South Coast prove that the world is passionate about high quality, locally made fashion. The label combines elegant couture with African talent by Sistas Felas, S'theh and Deon Zuider, demonstrating the international demand for professional craftsmanship and the enormous investment potential in the region's fashion industry.
All three brands are members (or pending members) of local initiatives that purchase South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprises (SCTIE) that promotes local businesses, connects with resources, and encourages consumers and investors support. Their success highlights a thriving industry that is ready to expand. This is a great opportunity for investors to support the high growth sector.
Sistas Felas
Since launching Sistas Felas in 2020, Makhosazane (Makhosi) Ntshangase has won several well-known awards from the Durban Fashion Fair, including a 2024 designer. Winner of Amaqhawe Heroes 2024 at Zee Entertainment Africa. Second place in the National President SMME & Cooperatives Awards 2023 for women-led business.
Committed to township development, Makosi works with Trade & Investment KZN (Tikzn) and local governments to provide skills through fashion and promote business creation. Supported by the municipalities of Seda and Ray Nkonyeni, Makhosi hosts the South Coast annual business fair, an internationally recognized event hosting designers and representatives from around the world. Based on this success, Sistas Felas signed a three-year agreement with the Ray Nkonyeni Municipality in 2024, continuing this well-supported event.
Operated by two branches of Gamalakhe Township and Port Shepstone's training cut, manufacturer, Trim (CMT) studio, the company produces custom clothing, accessories and branded products while guiding local designers of South Coast designers. Through a 100% free fashion design training program, mentees will gain exposure at major events such as Durban Fashion Fair, Durban July and Seychelles Fashion Week.
With exhibitions in 12 countries and over 30 cities around the world, Sistas Felas expanded to exports to London and the Seychelles. In terms of investment potential, Makosi says they are appealing to local and international organizations to grow the company, supporting their willingness to increase permanent local employment and expand the export market.
“We want to build businesses that promote the textile industry, create job opportunities for our communities, and promote the entire creative industry.
Sthesh Fashion Boutique
Sthembile Mnguni, self-taught designer and owner of Port Shepstone-based Sthesh Fashion Boutique, has also achieved great success. She is the recipient of the Next Billionaire 2023 Award in the Clothing and Textile category and has won the Grand Prize in the same category at the 2021 Loxion Biz. She was also nominated to showcase her work on Ukhozi FM along with designer Maxhosa Africa.
Since 2014, Sthesh Fashion Boutique has produced high quality wedding dresses, matrix dresses and traditional outfits. Commenting on her industry success, Sthembile stated, “It's important to stay consistent in producing quality clothing while still being loyal to its customers.”
She said purchasing a local membership has given her more opportunities to attract more clients over the years. “The municipality has also funded exhibitions for further exposure. We look forward to growing the brand and passing this knowledge on to the next generation.”
Deon Zuider
Samkele Deon Nxumalo, director and head fashion designer of Margate-based Deon Zuider Label, boasts the prestigious Designer Awards among the Designer of the Year at the 2023 South Coast Business Fair and the Designer of the Year in 2022 in the Next Billionaire Clothing and Textile Category.
After the death of her younger sister Nonra Kanifo in 2013, Samukel had no financial support to continue her fashion. Care for their high-end clothing. ”
Samkele also praised the local initiative, citing the brand's legendary service, quality workmanship and outstanding customer service as reasons for its success.
Commenting on the investment needed in the region, Samkele said:
Investing in fashion on the South Coast of KZN
“The investment potential of the fashion and CMT industry is abundant on the South Coast of KZN, and these fashion designers are proving this through successful brands.” “Through local initiatives, we provide business support and truly encourage sourcing from local suppliers.
Visit the KZN South Coast website for more information. Following on to sightseeing on the South Coast on Facebook. A YouTube South Coast Tourism and Investment Company. @infosouthcoast on Twitter or Instagram; South Coast tourism and investment company on LinkedIn. Click here to check out our previous SCTIE press releases. Find out why the KZN South Coast is a top tourist destination here.
Follow the hashtag #nowistthetime #nowistthetimetoinvest
For industry-related news, click here.
