The Fashion Industry Awards South Africa (FIASA) is proud to announce the official list of nominees for the 5th Annual Fashion Industry Awards, set to take place on 26 November 2025. Marking a significant half-decade milestone, this year’s ceremony returns under the evocative theme “The Art of Style” – a tribute to the creators who move beyond trends to shape culture, reinterpret heritage, and craft visual poetry through fashion.
FIASA 2025 celebrates the designers, brands, artisans, visionaries, and emerging talents who continue to push South Africa’s fashion narrative forward, contributing to a dynamic and globally recognised creative industry.
As the awards enter their fifth year, FIASA continues to spotlight the full fashion value chain – championing ingenuity, artistic direction, craftsmanship, innovation, legacy and authenticity.
Under the theme “The Art of Style,” this year’s awards honour creators who – craft fashion as a visual language; shape, not follow, trends; push and challenge boundaries; preserve and evolve African heritage and also those who champion sustainability and purpose-driven creativity.
FIASA 2025 promises an inspiring celebration of the individuals and brands who embody the artistry, discipline, and cultural expression that define South African fashion.
Public fashion lovers added their submissions across 20 prestigious categories for the 5th annual FIASA Awards – to showcase excellence across established icons, rising stars, and pioneering creative voices. Selected highlights from the nominee list include:
Fashion Designer of the Year:
• Artfit
• Ezokhetho
• Ruald Rheeder
• Tshepo Jeans
Emerging Talent of the Year:
• Neyah
• Oyama Gonintebe
• Patrick Ferguson Designs
• Rebirth SA
Womenswear Brand of the Year:
• Ezokhetho
• Malondié
• Michael Ludwig Studio
• Sober Design House
Accessory Designer of the Year:
• Anita Ferreira Designs
• Ditsala Designs
• Elizabeth Morr
• Isa B Jewellery Designs
• Negritude Jewellery
Heritage / Cultural Designer of the Year:
• Ezokhetho
• House of Fabrosanz
• Indoni Fashion House
• Malondié
Top Runway & High Fashion Model 2025:
• Constance More
• Sello Nhlapo
• Nicole Bux
Best Veteran Model 2025:
• Kwakho Qongqo
• Poppy Xaba
• Cindy-Lee Patel
These categories represent only a portion of the exceptional talent recognised this year. The full list spans 20 categories – including Sustainable Practice, African Fashion Brand, Make-Up Artist, Hairstylist, Photographer, Retail Space, Campaign Model, Commercial Model, and more – reflecting the breadth and depth of South Africa’s creative ecosystem.
Leading up to the ceremony, FIASA will host a series of Fashion Industry South Africa workshops and discussions, offering insight, education, and community-building opportunities for creatives at every level of the industry.
Additionally, a FIASA Retail Pop-Up is set to take place – a curated showcase dedicated to celebrating emerging fashion designers and brands, giving new talent a platform to shine. More details on both initiatives will be shared soon.
This year’s awards mark an important milestone – five years of honouring South African fashion excellence, and the 2025 ceremony promises to be an unforgettable evening that celebrates artistry, innovation, identity and culture.
FIASA looks forward to celebrating with the industry and the public as we honour the remarkable individuals and brands who define The Art of Style.
Nominations and full category descriptions are available on www.fashionforum.co.za.
