Confections x Collections (CxC) is an annual five-day festival held at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, in November. Twyg curates intimate salon-style fashion exhibitions that meet bespoke confectioneries inspired by slow fashion companies with an emphasis on community, caring, and inclusion.
The show's African Luxury Lore theme, which offers a deeper connection with luxury fashion while examining the diversity of African cultures and practices, served as inspiration for the pieces on display. The 2020 LVMH Prize winner Sindiso Khumalo and the avant-garde, androgynous VIVIERS Studio by Lezanne Viviers, who are both making a second appearance at CxC, were among the designer collections that graced the Nellie's Lounge. They were joined by two well-known designers from Johannesburg: Wanda Lephoto, who exhibits sartorial storytelling, and Mantsho by Palesa Mokubung, who is well-known for her voluminous and daring ensembles. The final performer was 0—a Thai-born designer based in Cape Town who is affectionately referred to as the "Prince of Print."
Through the history of the 50-year afternoon tea tradition, Cape Town's renowned pink hotel, CxC, pays attention to the growth of those who are supporting a culture of care and honoring local artisanal skills. Vicky Gurovich, the Executive Pastry Chef at Mount Nelson, made custom candies for the two daily fashion shows, drawing inspiration from the designs. Master of Ceremonies Seth Shezi hosted a private designer talk before each presentation, during which the theme of community and collaboration emerged as designers candidly discussed their individual creative achievements both domestically and internationally.
With his "Me Fie" collection, Wanda Lephoto retells African tales under the prism of modern fashion, fusing influences and subcultures into well-fitting clothing. "I'm in service to my friends and family with an understanding of where we've been and where we want to go," remarks Lephoto, an observer who draws inspiration from South Africa and other inspiring places. It all comes from community and friendship. He recounts the experience of witnessing the influx of migrants into Johannesburg's downtown, including some who were carrying big Ghana Must Go bags decorated with crosshatched patterns, which he later transformed into chic, ready-to-wear patterns. His idea that “a flower can bloom from the cracks in the pavement” is warmly received by cherry blossom appliqué suits.
Lezanne Viviers' VIVIERS Studio investigates the origins of our clothes and the common ancestry of various star-inspired cultures. Viviers provides South African silk that has been harvested a fresh textured feel by using Japanese printing techniques on recycled silk. Like her peers, Viviers believes that "it takes 50 people working together to make the vision clear," highlighting the importance of community and shared ideals.
CxC goes beyond the catwalk when Sindiso Khumalo makes a comeback to give visitors a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see her most recent project with European shop "& Other Stories." Ribbons, legendary designs, and collars a la Peter Pan were embellished her whimsical gowns and recently released children's and swimwear collections. "There is an amazing fashion community in South Africa," she observes. This goes beyond simply showcasing your work; it's about fostering community. Khumalo's dedication to a plastic-free philosophy is further demonstrated by this collection, which includes clay jewelry created by renowned South African sculptor Githan Coopoo.
Palesa Mokubung's Mantsho is the epitome of leaving a legacy through community service. "I have proven myself as an integral part of the fashion industry - a black female at the forefront," says Mokubung, who founded Mantsho in 2004. My motivation comes from my community. Through a signature spectrum of bright prints and exaggerated silhouettes, each collection is infused with passion and culture, resulting in a mosaic of African prints and artwork. Using the legendary Mount Nelson as her platform, Mokubung, a real titan of the industry, has once again left her mark.
With his Spring/Summer 2024 "Sea Explorer" collection of expertly clashing colors, patterns, and maps strewn across trench coats, knitwear, and aquatic accessories, Chuulap by Chu Suwannapha transports you throughout the globe. Suwannapha, a celebration of African inventiveness, draws inspiration from Cape Town's untamed terroir and maritime exploration. "I am putting myself in somebody else's shoes to extend my brand and I deeply value the opportunity to collaborate with someone who can change my experience," Suwannapha said when discussing the power of teamwork.
A few months away from reaching 125 years old, the cherished Nellie continues to leave her mark as one of Cape Town's cultural icons, whether it be through historical strands or a modern tapestry, Confections x Collections.