Three fashion designers from KwaZulu-Natal’s South Coast are achieving success both locally and internationally, highlighting the region’s potential in the fashion industry and the importance of supporting local craftsmanship.
Three prominent fashion designers from the KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) South Coast are gaining recognition on both local and international stages for their high-quality, locally produced fashion lines. The brands Sistas Felas, S’theh, and Deon Zuider showcase a unique blend of sophisticated couture and African aesthetic, underlining the increasing global demand for artisan craftsmanship and the significant investment opportunities within the region’s fashion industry.
These three brands are affiliated with the South Coast Tourism and Investment Enterprise’s (SCTIE) Buy Local initiative, which aims to bolster local businesses, provide them access to essential resources, and foster support from consumers and investors. Their achievements illustrate a flourishing sector ripe for expansion—a compelling prospect for investors eyeing a high-growth industry.
Sistas Felas, founded by Makhosazane (Makhosi) Ntshangase in 2020, has quickly garnered an impressive array of accolades. Notably, Ntshangase won the Designer of the Year award from the Durban Fashion Fair in 2024, along with the Amaqhawe Our Heroes 2024 title from Zee Entertainment Africa. Additionally, she placed second at the National Presidential SMME & Cooperatives Awards 2023 for Women-Led Business.
Focusing on community upliftment, Makhosi collaborates with Trade & Investment KZN (TIKZN) and local authorities to foster skills development and entrepreneurship through fashion. She is also behind the South Coast Annual Business Fair—an internationally recognized event that she organizes with support from SEDA and Ray Nkonyeni Municipality. In 2024, Sistas Felas entered into a three-year agreement with Ray Nkonyeni Municipality to continue the event. Operating from locations in Gamalakhe township and Port Shepstone, the brand is dedicated to producing custom clothing, accessories, and branded merchandise, while also nurturing local designers through its free Fashion Design Training Programme.
With a presence in 12 countries and over 30 cities globally, Sistas Felas has expanded its reach to include exports to London and Seychelles. Makhosi is actively seeking investments to scale operations, enhance local employment, and grow export capabilities. She commented, “We want to build a business that will promote the textile industry, create job opportunities for our communities, and promote the creative industry as a whole. To achieve this, we need investment in a local factory so we can expand to mass production of garments.”
Sthembile Mnguni, the self-taught designer behind Sthesh Fashion Boutique in Port Shepstone, has also achieved considerable success since her establishment in 2014. Recognized for her contributions with awards such as The Next Billionaire 2023 in Clothing and Textile, Sthembile’s designs encompass high-quality wedding gowns, matric dresses, and traditional attire. She stated, “It’s important to remain consistent in producing quality-made garments while remaining loyal to customers.” Sthembile noted that membership in the Buy Local initiative has afforded her greater visibility and client base, as local government support has enabled her to participate in various exhibitions to further promote her brand.
Additionally, Samkele Deon Nxumalo, the creative mind behind Deon Zuider in Margate, has garnered accolades, including Designer of the Year at the 2023 South Coast Business Fair and winning the 2022 Next Billionaire in the Clothing and Textile category. After facing personal and financial challenges following the loss of his sister, he embraced the fashion industry and stated, “This proved to be the best decision, and I have built a hoard of loyal old and incoming clients.” Deon Zuider specializes in high-end fashion but has recently expanded services to include a dry-cleaning business to better serve clients.
Samkele emphasized the integral role of the Buy Local initiative, noting, “The bulk of our fabric is bought locally and our equipment is bought and serviced locally.” He advocates for the establishment of local fashion schools and factories, expressing a desire to focus on bulk production for corporate wear, highlighting a potential area for investment.
Dr. Vusumuzi Sibiya, CEO of SCTIE, recognizes the potential in the KZN South Coast’s fashion and cut, make, and trim (CMT) sector, stating, “Through our Buy Local initiative, we are providing business support and really encouraging our local businesses to source from local suppliers.” He further detailed the investment assistance available at SCTIE’s One Stop Shop in Port Shepstone, designed to facilitate growth in this promising sector.
The emergence and success of these designers underscore the vibrant fashion landscape on the KZN South Coast, presenting numerous opportunities for growth and investment.
Source: Noah Wire Services
