By Marcus Moloko
Durban’s Oceans Mall became the epicenter of style and sound as African Fashion International (AFI) unveiled its House of NALA pop-up ahead of the Metro FM Music Awards 2026.
The showcase marked a glamorous “return to Durban” theme, blending high fashion with one of South Africa’s biggest entertainment weekends.
As the official fashion partner, AFI positioned African luxury alongside global brands, spotlighting designers Loice Dube and Thulani Molokomme.
Loice’s Autumn/Winter 2026 collection redefined modern African formal wear through bold colours and avant-garde tailoring, while Thulani’s range drew on mystical inspirations to deliver dramatic high-fashion statements.
The collections set the tone for the Metro FM Awards’ celebrated “Black Carpet” culture, proving that African craftsmanship belongs at the forefront of global luxury.
With the awards returning to the Durban ICC, the city pulses with a fusion of music and fashion, reminding audiences that Durban is not just a stage this weekend but a cultural canvas.
