Johannesburg, South Africa – Last night Langhams Lifestyle Estate was ablaze with the hottest fashion affair of the season as CRUZ Vodka hosted an electrifying opening party. Attended by the crème de la crème of the South African fashion world, the event set a new standard for style, sophistication, and innovation ahead of South African Fashion Week, which kicks off tonight in Mzansi.
Themed around the vibrant energy of New York with a delicate touch of floral, the dress code inspired attendees to showcase their unique interpretations of metropolitan chic intertwined with natural beauty. The result was a visual spectacle, with guests adorned in avant-garde ensembles that seamlessly blended urban flair with botanical elegance.
Among the luminaries gracing the event were the icons of South African fashion, including the illustrious “stylist to the stars,” Phupho Gumede, whose innovative styling has graced the pages of global fashion publications and adorned the frames of A-list celebrities. Also in attendance was the charismatic self styled Durban socialite, Naliyani Uma, whose magnetic presence added an extra spark to the evening’s festivities.
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The Cruz Vodka South African Fashion Week Opening Party served as a prelude to the upcoming South African Fashion Week, promising a week-long celebration of creativity, diversity, and ingenuity in the realm of fashion. This collaboration between Cruz Vodka and SA Fashion Week exemplifies a shared commitment to fostering the growth and recognition of local talent while simultaneously embracing global trends and influences.
Additional celebrities included Angela Sithole, Gigi La Mayne, Kim Jayde, Penny Lebyane, Natasha Thahane, Kayise Ngqula, Yaya Mavundla, Rosette Ncwana, Khosi Twala, Money Badoo, Farai Samurai, Vafa Naraghi and Lord Kez brought their innovative style and charisma to the red carpet. Love was in the air with couples Kay Sibiya and Judie Kama, Lula Odiba and partner King Asshley as well as the Kgosinkwe’s Theo and Vourne. Our favourite reality TV stars included the gorgeous Housewives of Joburg Annie Brauns, Mamukus Koka and Mareli Bentley who were also in attendance.
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Fashion designers Hangwani Nengovhela (Rubicon), Ephraim Molingoana (Ephymol), Sello Medupe (Scalo), Craig Jacobs (Fundudzi), Msukizi Mbane (Imprint) and Lele Dhlamini (Ezoketho) not only graced the event showcasing their talent in their own attire but also dressed many of the red carpet guests last night. Other fashionable guests included Margo Fargo, Lisa Madibe, Leon Payne and Ayanda Nhlapo.
As guests mingled and danced the night away, they were treated to handcrafted signature Cruz cocktails, specially curated to complement the fusion of New York sophistication and the soft life-inspiring Cruz flavour range. The ambiance pulsated with anticipation, signaling the beginning of an unforgettable journey through the intersection of fashion, art, and expression.
Entertainment for the fashion affair included SA’s biggest Amapiano DJ duo TXC, hiphop megastar Maglera Doe Boy alongside DJ’s TenOceans, Rarri and Tyler ICU.
“The energy last night was electric,” remarked Cruz Vodka Brand Manager Maisha Mamabolo and added, “It was inspiring to see the convergence of creativity and culture on such a grand scale. As we continue the brands longstanding commitment to the South African fashion industry, it was great to celebrate the intersection of fashion, music, and culture and to provide a platform for emerging designers and artists alike.”
The Cruz Vodka X South African Fashion Week Opening Party marked not only the commencement of a groundbreaking collaboration but also the dawn of a new era in South African fashion. With the lights of Fourways as its backdrop and the fashion industry’s finest in attendance, the event proved to be a fitting herald for the sartorial extravaganza that awaits at South African Fashion Week.
SA Fashion Week runway shows kick off tonight until Saturday 18th April, with three days of incredible South African fashion being showcased to not only an eager SA audience but fashion enthusiasts from around the world at the Mall of Africa.
For more information about the show, follow the Cruz Vodka social media pages on both Twitter and Instagram. Alternatively, follow the hashtag: #CruzSAFW to see who wore what!
