The 11th year of AFI's Cape Town Fashion Week started off with a bang last night at the Mercedes Benz Gala dinner. Two designers showed collections to ease us into the upcoming extravaganza that is Fashion Week.



First up was the much buzzed about Ernest Mahomane who was all about texture, structure and cohesion. The red and white collection showed technical promise with charming covered buttons and perfectly stitched back zips (trust me I've seen some terrible closures at shows) in sleek and full-circle silhouettes. The epic finale saw a dramatic score emphasizing the opening of the CTICC ballroom blinds to the city, revealing the garments to Cape Town and proclaiming "Fashion is here".



Newcomers Milq and Honey were all about metallics, sexy crop tops and resort wear. Skin tight-leggings and flowing dresses spoke to the glam squad. My favorite piece was the gathered red crop top reminiscent of a flamenco dancer where bias-binding finished off delicate fabric that moved beautifully. The show-stopping head wear was provided by The Little Hattery. I'm interested to see this brand grow.

That's it for the first night, I about to get no sleep this week but I'm looking forward to this daydream. Backstage pics coming soon!