Local fashion designer Tase Jack captivated all attending the second annual Fashionable Nights show on Friday at Kofini and Co in Quigney.
The sold-out show featured seven dynamic local designers who brought their unique styles to life, highlighting the vibrant and growing talent of the Eastern Cape fashion scene.
The show followed an unconventional format with no specific theme, allowing the seven designers to fully embrace their creativity.
Celebrating local fashion designers was crucial for fostering homegrown talent and encouraging creativity within the community, Jack said.
Events such as Fashionable Nights not only gave designers a platform to showcase their work but also helped to shine a spotlight on the diverse fashion culture emerging in the Eastern Cape.
By supporting local talent, the community contributed to the growth of the fashion industry, opening up more opportunities for designers to collaborate, gain exposure, and ultimately scale their businesses.
Moreover, recognising local fashion designers could inspire the next generation of creators, showing them that success is attainable even without access to major fashion hubs such as Johannesburg or Cape Town. Jack said the celebration of local talent strengthened community pride and helped build a sustainable industry where designers could thrive, while reflecting the unique cultural heritage and identity of the region through their creations. “The event was beyond my expectations. It was sold-out and there were more people than I expected.
“I expected only 60 people, but more than 80 guests arrived to support the show,” he said.
“It was a beautiful evening. People really enjoyed themselves, it was a great vibe.
“The clothes were stunning, and designers ‘showed off their incredible creativity.”
The seven featured designers included Msaba Emporium, Sisanda Mbali, Sandi Dani Designs, Goldspoon, Thee Kings, Pegasis Boutique and Iza Crafts.
The designers showcased a range of different styles including traditional wear, contemporary designs, bridal wear, evening gowns and ready-to- wear pieces.
Jack said each piece was an illustration of how far local fashion had come and what the province’s fashion designers could do.
“Eastern Cape designers are very creative. There was a display of wedding gowns with a balloon display and a beautiful knitwear range. They are growing and the quality of their work is improving,” Jack said.
Mbali showcased her Vacation collection on the night.
“About two months before the show, Tase Jack approached me about showcasing.
“I created a brand new collection that was stylish, futuristic and out of this world,” she said.
“Every part of each garment has a long story behind it; from the colour scheme, to the cuts, to the texture of the materials, to the fit.
“My experience on the night was amazing. It was such an honour to be invited as a designer because as fashion designers we get to market our work.”
Some of the event’s sponsors included Fitch & Leeds mixers, Brutal Fruit, Tsalaz Ginger and Black Crown. 
