As the fashion world cast its gaze to New York, South Africa had its own style affair. On 10 May, the Savanna Neat Gala took over Johannesburg’s Houghton Hotel for a night that merged high fashion, wit, and understated luxury in a celebration that reimagined global style through a proudly local lens.
Themed ‘Supahfine: Tailoring in Neat Style,’ the Neat Gala invited comedians, fashionistas, and friends of the brand, including media personality Lasizwe, Dominic Zaca, actor Zamani Mbatha, reality-TV star Phupho Gumede, as well as TikTok stars Banele Ndaba and Cassidy Nicholson. “The Savanna Neat Gala presented an opportunity to create more than just a memorable night out. We wanted a cultural moment that says: South Africa does premium, fashion, culture in our own signature way,” said Kayla Hendricks, marketing communication manager for Savanna, about the night. The black carpet showed off bespoke suits, bold silhouettes, and looks that blended refinement with a playful edge.
Amongst the black-and-gold decor, Savanna Neat was – naturally – flowing all night long. “Savanna Neat is a premium crisp and dry cider, with notes of toasted oak and is stylishly laid-back. The Neat Gala was reflective of just that, celebrating the unique flavour that comes from blending the iconic innovative edge of Savanna Premium Cider and equally iconic cultural moves for a bold, elevated finish,” said Kayla.
The evening’s centrepiece? A fashion walk-off with the 10 best-dressed guests. Judged by an all-star comedian panel, Savanna Comics Choice Award winner Celeste Ntuli, Mpho Popps, Moshe Ndiki, Nina Hastie, and Fareida Matsileng, the segment was part runway, part roast.
Their commentary blended wit with wardrobe critique, keeping the audience entertained while spotlighting standout style.
It was celebrity stylist Tshiamo Modisane who emerged as the evening’s style winner – as voted by the audience – walking away with R20 000 and VIP access to the upcoming Durban July.
The night was far from over though, as live violinists and dancers took to the stage during dinner, before DJ Morda hit the decks, transitioning the night into its afterparty chapter. Guests moved from seated elegance to dance-floor fun. Collars loosened. Spirits stayed high. And the vibe remained, well… supahfine.
