Curated by Twyg and hosted at the Mount Nelson Hotel in Cape Town, Confections x Collections held its third event this November, celebrating African design, heritage, and responsible fashion. The five-day high tea salon-style showcase presented solo shows from Rich Mnisi, Lukhanyo Mdingi, IAMISISO, and Lagos Space Programme as well as a group show featuring eleven brands including Viviers Studio, Mmuso Maxwell, CHULAAP, and Sindiso Khumalo.
For the past three years since its launch, Confections x Collections has grown into an anticipated event showcasing a brilliant crop of brands whilst championing conscious fashion with a unique point of view, powerful storytelling, and ethical production. These designers are in a class of their own, often bridging timeless tribal traditions with a contemporary approach while fostering community in their work. This year’s brilliant collections ushered a fresh take on luxury and refined tailoring.
Following their October runway show in Paris, Nigeria’s Lagos Space Programme presented its New Lagos Look collection honouring the fearless and individualistic codes that define Lagos street style. Blending storied Yoruba artistry with the sharpness of British tailoring, Lagos Space Programme displayed an exquisite lineup of looks, including immaculate pinstripe trousers, a striking floral overcoat, a post-Adire double-breasted suit, stunning statement accessories, and garments with symbolic hand-painted motifs.
Cape Town-based Lukhanyo Mdingi’s proposition took on a different direction. Dominated by rustic colours and lively custom prints, the designer showed us some of his best design remixes from past seasons from delicate knitwear vests, dresses, and rich-textured matching sets to luxe transitional dresses and everyday essentials. The outfits transcended to effortlessly draped fabrics with botanical prints, athleisure t-shirts, and shorts that brought sporty energy into the mix.
Sports continue to influence luxury fashion. I’ve come across multiple sports references from various spring summer 2025 collections across international fashion weeks and the continent throughout this season.
Renowned for using unconventional materials and heritage textiles, IAMISIGO, the Lagos, Nairobi, and, Accra-based womenswear brand focussed on chequered, chainmail, and beaded pieces with an edge. Each design exuded a sense of freedom and exploration. It was a sparkly affair of party and occasion dressing.
Drawing from nature, Johannesburg designer Rich Mnisi dialled down on his signature vivid patterns. Instead, they debuted a sensual collection with toned-down jungle and floral patterns. Named Nambu, (which means river in Xitsonga) they offered a range of options like swimwear, daywear and dressy pieces. “I remember watching steady currents and feeling both calmed and emboldened by their power,” the designer explained via Instagram referring to the river and its duality as the collection’s inspiration.
