ETHEKWINI NEWSFLASH
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APPLICATIONS OPEN FOR 15TH DURBAN FASHION FAIR SHOWCASE
From sketchbooks and mentorship to national and international runways, the Durban Fashion Fair (DFF) has spent 15 years transforming emerging local designers into successful fashion entrepreneurs.
As the programme celebrates its landmark 15th edition under the theme "Where Legacy Lives", eThekwini Municipality is inviting fashion designers to be part of this milestone showcase, which promises to be bigger and better than ever.
Applications are currently open and close on 31 July 2026.
Designers interested in showcasing their collections can apply by completing the online application form at https://forms.gle/9yHiqibirFNaxtLq9.
The 15th DFF will take place from 16 to 18 September at the Durban Exhibition Centre, culminating in the Recognition Awards on 19 September.
This year's showcase will celebrate the remarkable journey of designers who joined the programme 14 years ago and have since built successful fashion businesses, created employment and showcased their work on national and international platforms.
It will also introduce the next generation of fashion household names currently participating in the intensive 10-month DFF Mentorship Programme, highlighting the City's continued investment in developing creative talent and growing the local fashion economy.
The City’s Chairperson of the Economic Development and Planning Committee, Councillor Thembo Ntuli, said the programme has become one of the Municipality's most successful creative economy initiatives.
"For the past 15 years, the DFF has demonstrated that fashion is a powerful driver of economic development. Through structured mentorship, skills development and market access, the programme has trained and supported hundreds of designers to establish sustainable businesses, access local and international markets, and create employment opportunities. This milestone celebrates those achievements while reaffirming our commitment to investing in the next generation of designers who will shape the future of South African fashion."
Since its inception, the DFF has evolved into a comprehensive fashion development ecosystem, offering mentorship, business incubation, retail opportunities and access to local and international markets.
Through initiatives such as the DFF Emporium at uMlazi Mega City and seasonal pop-up shops, the programme continues to empower micro, small and medium enterprises while positioning Durban as one of Africa's leading fashion destinations.
For more information, contact nondumiso.mthembu@durban.gov.za.
Follow @DurbanFashionFair across all social media platforms for updates.
ENDS
Issued by eThekwini Municipality’s Marketing and Communications Directorate
