The School of Fashion (SOF) celebrated its 60th anniversary with a vibrant showcase of graduate collections, marking six decades of creativity and innovation. The event, held in a packed Platinum Hall in Mkondeni, highlighted the work of current students, alumni, and emerging designers. Managing director Nivasha Bhika Beharie said the evening honoured the school’s long legacy, while demonstrating the exceptional talent shaping South Africa’s fashion future.
“The atmosphere was exhilarating, an unforgettable fusion of artistry, music, and emotion,” she said. Guests praised the show as one of the most impressive fashion events the school has staged. Industry judge Gregory Wallis applauded the high standard of the collections, saying he was consistently amazed by the young designers’ craftsmanship.
However, he warned that cheap imported clothing continued to damage the local fashion industry and urged South Africans to support home-grown talent. “These designers have international potential,” Wallis said, noting his judging experience in Milan and the United Kingdom. There are garments here that belong on global runways.
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We must support local designers if we want to grow our economy and create jobs. Wallis added that Pietermaritzburg’s creative energy was thriving, praising the city’s talent, including local models he recently selected for a major photographic shoot. “Recently, I had to do a three-day photographic shoot, and I could choose models from anywhere. Most of the models came from Irene’s School here in Pietermaritzburg.
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