A night to remember: Somizi Mhlongo's stunning fashion debut at the 2025 DFF

Somizi Mhlongo closed the 2025 Durban Fashion Fair with an unforgettable show that left everyone in awe on Sunday, September 21.

The multi-media personality, who recently graduated as a designer from the Villioti Fashion Institute, made his runway debut at the popular fashion event, which was hosted at the Durban Exhibition Centre.

Mhlongo's show was a star-studded affair, which saw Mzansi's favourite celebrities take to the runway.

Among the models he chose to showcase his line were "The Real Housewives of Durban" OG Sorisha Naidoo, popular make-up artist and beauty influencer Mihlali Ndamase, DJ and influencer Sithelo Shozi and his daughter Bahumi Mhlongo, among other A-listers.

His collection was all about celebrating powerful, elegant and unique women.

He said: "The collection features original prints ... I dedicate this line to ‘Amandlozi akithi - my ancestors."

Showcasing at the DFF was a dream come true for Mhlongo, who previously said, "I told myself, if I were to showcase anywhere for the first time, it had to be at DFF. One, it’s home. Two, I have a history with the brand. And three, DFF has positively impacted so many local designers."

His designs included a variety of pieces, such as dresses and coats made from unique textiles and eye-catching prints.

The colour palette was inspired by nature, featuring earthy tones like tans, champagne gold, green and white.

During the big moment, Mhlongo walked the runway, showcasing two stunning outfits: one was a silver dress with a sculpted bodice, while his daughter, Bahumi, wore a princess-style dress with a lace bottom, beautifully decorated with prints from the collection.

Overwhelmed with excitement, Somizi couldn’t help but shed tears of joy during this special moment.

This year's Durban Fashion Fair was a spectacular three-day event, featuring the work of over 60 talented designers, showcasing the vibrant creativity of South Africa's fashion scene.