In two months, Windhoek will play host to one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the year – the 8th edition of the MTC Windhoek Fashion Week (MTCWFW) 2023.
Scheduled to dazzle fashion aficionados from 1 to 4 November, this year’s edition promises to be bigger and better than ever before.
According to MTCWFW director Kalistu Mukoroli, it is not merely a fashion showcase; it is a platform for creatives to collaborate, market their products and create connections in the industry.
“MTCWFW introduced new activities, like creatives music collaboration, jewellery masterclass, young designers’ competition and collaboration between international fashion weeks. The focus of MTCWFW is to create a platform that allows creatives to collaborate, sell and market their products to a diverse clientele,” he noted.
Symphony of fashion and music
One of the highlights is the ‘Runway Music Collaboration’. This unique concept brings together Namibian musicians and producers in tandem with local designers to create a special soundscape for the runway, perfectly aligned with the designers’ collections. Not stopping there, musicians and DJs will provide interval performances throughout the event, ensuring a multi-sensory experience for attendees.
According to the organisers, this collaboration is set to be an ongoing feature of MTCWFW, building on the successful synergy introduced in the previous edition and contributing to the promotion of Namibian music and sound.
Fashion meets sound: a multifaceted initiative
Another exciting addition to this year’s event is ‘Fashion Meets Sound’, which encompasses several elements. The Young Creative Design Competition saw school learners from 14 regions design garments for the competition. Selected designs were digitally rendered, with music created for each, resulting in physical garments that will be showcased at MTCWFW23.
Masterclasses and Networking Mixers were conducted in eight regions, focussing on industry collaboration and opportunities within the creative industry. Over 200 creatives attended these sessions, further emphasising MTCWFW’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering collaboration.
MTCWFW goes international
This year, MTCWFW has spread its wings beyond Namibian borders. The event was hosted at the Batho Fashion Week in Botswana, where two Namibian designers – Sitwala and Eye on Fashion – showcased their collections. This initiative, part of the Sound Connects Fund, aims to expose Namibian designers to different fashion markets in Africa. The partnership will also see designers from Botswana showcasing their creations in Namibia, further strengthening international ties.
Diverse lineup of designers
Approximately 40 Namibian and international designers will grace the MTCWFW23 stage, with many of them showcasing their collections for the first time at this prestigious event. The platform is open to any designer seeking to market their creations, promoting inclusivity and diversity in fashion.
Designers like Sascha Olivier-Sampson of Goddess Design Studio, Fallone Tambwe of FALLONE, Chantel Kambrude of New 3arth Apparel and Chante Bock of Chante Jenae are among the talented individuals set to showcase their work.
Models stepping into the spotlight
More than 60 male and female models will strut their stuff on the runway, donning designer garments that will captivate the audience. These models were selected through a rigorous casting process, combining physical and online casting calls. Their role is crucial, as they embody the designs brought to life on the runway.
Jewellery takes centre stage
For the first time ever, MTCWFW will host a Jewellery Fashion Show in collaboration with the Namibia Diamond Trading Company (NDTC). This showcase, slated for 2 November, is open to all jewellery and accessories designers. Participation is free, and designers can also exhibit their pieces at no cost, aiming to promote Namibian talent in the jewellery industry.
Throughout the year, NDTC and MTCWFW organised three jewellery masterclasses, attracting over 250 jewellery designers, students and industry enthusiasts. These sessions focused on opportunities in the jewellery industry and brand growth.
Internship opportunities
For those interested in behind-the-scenes action, MTCWFW offers a paid internship programme. This opportunity allows individuals to learn about various aspects of event management, including backstage operations, logistics, hospitality, marketing and production. Aspiring interns can register on the MTCWFW website.
Calling all artists
Artists looking to perform at MTCWFW can submit their music via marketing@whkfashionweek.com. The event promises an eclectic mix of local and international artists, adding a layer of entertainment to the fashion extravaganza.
Ticket details
As anticipation mounts, ticket sales are set to open in mid-September. All-access tickets will be priced at N$450 for standard seats and N$600 for front-row seats. With over 40 designers showcasing their collections, along with the inaugural Jewellery Fashion Show, and local and international artists, MTCWFW 2023 promises to be an unforgettable experience for all fashion enthusiasts.
In the words of the organisers, spectators should “Prepare for a fashion spectacle like no other”!
Photos: Fashion 1 2 3 4 5