Proudly South African is excited to reveal the top ten finalists of the annual Local Fashion Police competition. Our four distinguished judges meticulously evaluated a multitude of entries to identify some of South Africa’s most passionate advocates for local fashion.
The 2023 edition of the Local Fashion Police kicked off in August, inviting South Africans to demonstrate their support for the local fashion industry by sharing their entries online. The competition garnered immense enthusiasm from fashion enthusiasts and received over 300 entries from participants showcasing a diverse range of locally crafted fashion garments.
In the process of selecting the top ten finalists, the judges meticulously reviewed entries based on the established criteria, which mandated that all submissions must be locally made in solidarity with the South African clothing, textile, footwear, and leather sector. The following contestants have made it through to the top ten:
@dianachelsearosefanie
@olwethu_ty
@ludina_ngwenya
@tasejack_
@tarryncilliers
@fortunembopo
@chernaylin
@gomolemo_mashabe
@chuma_mtshixa
@ndyebolurayi
Happy MaKhumalo Ngidi, Chief Marketing Officer at Proudly SA, shared her enthusiasm by expressing, “We hope that people will continue to support local brands, not only during the competition but also, in the long run, to contribute to job creation.” Her words resonate with the sentiments of the countless individuals who have rallied behind this initiative, acknowledging its vital role in elevating South Africa’s fashion industry.
“This campaign not only shines a spotlight on the industry’s potential but also aims to stimulate job growth in a sector that currently employs approximately 60,000 to 80,000 people, constituting about 14% of the nation’s manufacturing jobs. It’s a critical sector that also plays a significant role in South Africa’s exports, “Ngidi emphasised. As the excitement builds, it is essential to note that out of these ten finalists, only four will stand the chance to win the coveted title. These fortunate winners will have the incredible opportunity to walk the runway alongside the campaign, wearing garments that exemplify the epitome of South African local fashion, designed by our four renowned local designers. This grand finale will take place at a dazzling fashion show on the 16th of November 2023.
The Local Fashion Police competition has not only ignited a fierce sense of competition but has also nurtured a sense of unity and pride within the local fashion community. It serves as a testament to the immense talent that South Africa possesses and the boundless creativity that continues to shape the nation’s fashion landscape.
As we approach the grand finale, Proudly SA invites everyone to join in this celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and culture. Stay tuned for more updates as we count down to the grand unveiling of the winners and witness the magic, as South African local fashion meets music on the runway!
The top four will also stand a chance to walk away with the grand prize of R20 000 worth of fashion each.
For more information and updates, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, and visit our website www.proudlysa.co.za.
