Contemporary African Luxury Shines at Confections X Collections

By: Temo Mpodi

Now an annual fixture on Cape Town’s cultural calendar, CONFECTIONS X COLLECTIONS (CxC) has earned its reputation as a showcase of contemporary African luxury. Hosted each November on the iconic grounds of Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, the event offers a narrative-led fashion experience shaped through curated tablescapes and paired with a reimagined take on the hotel’s famous Afternoon Tea.

This year, CxC unfolded in three acts under the theme “Our Homecoming.” The theme explored a symbolic return to purpose, to self and to community, and celebrated the continent’s creative leaders who are shaping the future of African fashion. Each chapter highlighted Africa as a cultural hub where craft, design and storytelling come together.

The showcase also honoured Africa’s long fashion lineage, a heritage built on exchange across kingdoms, regions and generations. “Our Homecoming was more than a theme. It was about returning to what grounds us as South Africans. Culture, creativity and community,” says Jonathan Lubala, Brand Director of Belmond Southern Africa.

Jackie May, Founder and Editor of Twyg and co-curator of this year’s edition, echoed this sentiment. “We’re here to honour the vision and craftsmanship of contemporary African fashion designers. These garments are created in Africa, for Africa, and for the world.”

How the programme unfolded

6 November
• Anil Padia of Yoshita 1967: Presented intricate, ritual-inspired pieces rooted in his Indo-Kenyan heritage.
• Shelley Mokoena of CONNADE: Revealed sculptural womenswear shaped by nature, African traditions and architectural form.

7 November
• Luke Radloff of UNI FORM: Introduced modular designs that blend a modernist perspective with indigenous techniques.

8 November
• Laduma Ngxokolo of MaXhosa Africa: Closed the programme with his globally acclaimed knitwear inspired by the symbols and colours of Xhosa heritage.

As the event drew to a close, Patrick Fisher, General Manager of Mount Nelson, reflected on the significance of hosting such a platform. “Through initiatives like CONFECTIONS X COLLECTIONS, we bring together the continent’s most visionary fashion designers, creatives and storytellers to celebrate African design in our historic grounds.”