Gqeberha’s fashion community is gearing up for a fresh take on runway culture as Eastern Cape Fashion Week (ECFW) introduces its first-ever POP UP Edition, taking place on Sunday, 26 April 2026 at The Gallery on Produce.
Designed as an exciting preview of the fourth official Eastern Cape Fashion Week, the event offers a more immersive and accessible way for audiences to experience the province’s growing fashion scene.
Over the years, ECFW has become an important platform for emerging Eastern Cape designers, giving them opportunities to showcase their work, connect with new audiences, and grow their brands beyond the region.
This POP UP edition aims to bring fashion closer to the public while celebrating the creativity shaping the province’s design landscape.
Fashion Meets Market Culture
One of the standout features of the POP UP Edition is its curated fashion market, transforming the venue into a vibrant lifestyle space where visitors can browse, shop and discover local designers.
Local crafters, fashion brands and retailers will set up interactive pop-up stalls, allowing guests to engage directly with designers while exploring unique pieces.
Among the highlights is Gqeberha fashion brand Hombakazi, known for its distinctive aesthetic and locally inspired designs.
The atmosphere promises to feel more like a creative gathering than a traditional runway event, with visitors enjoying:
• A curated fashion market
• Local food vendors
• Great music and lively atmosphere
• A fashion-forward crowd celebrating Eastern Cape creativity
Fashion in the Age of AI
This year’s theme, “Fashion in the Age of AI: A Glitch in the Stitch,” explores the evolving relationship between technology and human creativity.
As artificial intelligence begins to influence everything from design processes to fashion marketing, the theme encourages audiences to reflect on what makes fashion uniquely human.
Rather than chasing perfection, the concept embraces imperfection as a source of innovation.
It celebrates:
• The craftsmanship behind fashion design
• The beauty found in imperfections
• The unexpected “glitches” that inspire originality
In an increasingly digital world, the theme highlights the emotion, storytelling and cultural identity that human creativity continues to bring to fashion.
Designers From Across the Eastern Cape
The POP UP runway will showcase a curated selection of designers representing districts across the province.
Nelson Mandela Bay
• Mahlubandile Tom (Christopher Tom)
• Sinoxolo Manengela (Ndimbi Clothing)
Buffalo City Metro
• Thandile Ndamase (Thee Kings Inc.)
Chris Hani District
• Mfundo Phama (Love)
• Nosibusiso Mbali (MBALEEZ Fashion House)
Joe Gqabi District
• Keneuoe Tamako (Keneuoe ka Bongata Creatives)
OR Tambo District
• Onela Joni (OJ Designs)
• Thakazelwa Mhlomi (Msaba Emporium)
Each designer will present collections inspired by the theme while highlighting the diversity and creativity emerging from the Eastern Cape fashion community.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, 26 April 2026
Venue: The Gallery on Produce, Gqeberha
Programme
Fashion Market Opens: 15:00
Main Fashion Show: 17:00
Tickets: R250
Available at:
• Webtickets
• Pick n Pay
• Boxer Stores
Supporting the Province’s Creative Industry
The POP UP Edition is supported by the National Arts Council (NAC) and the Department of Sport, Arts & Culture, with additional backing from sponsors including Woolworths Beauty (Walmer Park), The Legends Barber, Sunrise Hotel, and Audi Nelson Mandela Bay.
As Eastern Cape Fashion Week continues to grow, events like this POP UP edition are helping position Gqeberha as a rising hub for fashion, culture and creative industries.
For fashion lovers, creatives and curious visitors alike, the event promises a vibrant afternoon celebrating the talent shaping the Eastern Cape’s fashion future.
Media & Enquiries
For media accreditation, interviews or further information:
media@ecfashionweek.co.za
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