DFF GOES VIRTUAL!
DFF GOES VIRTUAL!
When it comes to eThekwini’s eagerly anticipated annual Durban Fashion Fair (#DFF2020), the show will definitely go on despite the challenges of Covid-19.
eThekwini Mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, said the theme for #DFF2020 was exactly that this year – “The Show Must Go On!”
The DFF is hosted annually to promote and market local designers’ brands. This year, the fashion showcase will be converting into a virtual event in response to Covid-19 social distancing regulations. In addition to its fashion focus, it will have a strong business focus and run along with the Durban Business Fair.
This year’s #DFF2020 will showcase the work of 25 designers.
Some of the shows will be filmed at City Hall, Moses Mabhida Stadium, Botanic Gardens, the New Promenade and Max’s Lifestyle and can be viewed online between September 23 and 25.
This is particularly significant as September is not only regarded as Tourism Month but also as Heritage Month.
“It is particularly symbolic to celebrate Heritage Day on September 24 through the creativity of both our emerging and established designers. This is a reflection of the legacy of African fashion that we have been growing passionately through the platform of the DFF over the past nine years,” said Kaunda.
The mentorship programme, which has been central to the DFF for the past few years will assist aspiring new designers to hone their talents and build potential fashion businesses.
Model boot camps, which prepare new faces before they take to the DFF catwalk, will also continue this year. Newcomers to the world of modelling will not only be taught about “model etiquette” but also about health and nutrition so that they can build careers for themselves in the world of fashion.
Kaunda said these had been central to the empowerment ethos of the DFF since it was launched in 2012 and provided important platforms for the youth to explore career and business opportunities.
“However, due to calendar changes following lockdown, the mentees and the new faces, as well as the viewing public can look forward to seeing them in action featuring their own fashion showcase early December,” he said.
Follow us on the Facebook page: Durban Fashion Fair or on Twitter / Instagram @Dbnfashion_fair to tune into our #DFF2020 virtual showcase from September 23-25!