"We chose to move Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town to the V&A Waterfront to give this landmark event a revitalised perspective against a magnificent setting, placing this premier event at the heart of one of Cape Town's most iconic destinations," said Sizwe Nzimande, Group Marketing Manager of African Fashion International (AFI), organiser of the event.
"As the Watershed is home to some of South Africa's most inspiring design and located in the heart of the V&A Waterfront, we are confident that the new home of Cape Town fashion is going to be a firm favourite among designers, models, sponsors, fashionistas and media alike."
Located between the food market and the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A Waterfront, the Watershed is the redeveloped and facelifted incarnation of the iconic Blue Shed Craft Market and Wellness Centre. Its recent revamp has created a beautiful, serene space that is home to some of South Africa's most beautiful and innovative textiles, fashion and jewellery, creating the perfect backdrop for the country's leading fashion showcase.
"There is a natural synergy between what the Watershed represents and the local fashion, that is brought to life through Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town, and we are excited to welcome the event to the V&A Waterfront," said David Green, CEO of the V&A Waterfront.
The Watershed will host the hospitality and ticketing elements of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town, while the nearby North Wharf will house the ramp for the Spring/Summer fashion collections that will be presented by more than 30 established and emerging South African designers. A stellar line-up of local and international modelling talent will introduce the collections to guests.
Guests can look forward to a magnificent marquee setting on the North Wharf that will perfectly display each designer's collections as they are viewed by the local and international fashion industry and media, as well as fashion enthusiasts from all over the world.
"AFI is the gateway to refined African fashion, and we are confident that this new venue provides a world-class platform that promotes the achievements and careers of local designers."
