Confections x Collections is back for a second edition. Set against Table Mountain in the heart of Cape Town this annual coming-together of creative expression fuses five days of exclusive salon-style fashion shows with designer-inspired confectionery.

Taking place from 8 – 12 November 2023, the iconic pink hotel will host two daily fashion shows per designer, at 11:00 and 15:00. This year’s trailblazing lineup includes two Capetonians: the “Prince of Prints” Chu Suwannapha of Chulaap, as well as returning talent and internationally acclaimed winner of the 2020 LVMH Prize, Sindiso Khumalo. Joining them are their talented counter parts in Johannesburg: Lezanne Viviers of VIVIERS Studio, Wanda LePhoto and Mantsho by Palesa Mokubung.

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Curated by Twyg, the line up of designers for Confections x Collections speaks to the current golden age of slow, considered South African design. Aside from their visual mastery and star appeal, their considered slow, high-quality, trans-seasonal, and ethical production makes these contemporary designers relevant to the world’s climate and social challenges. In addition, their collective body of work is a celebration of South African and African culture and heritage expressed through fashion.

Sindiso Khumalo at Confections x Collections 2022. Photo by Armand Dicker

Mount Nelson’s pastry chef Vicky Gurovich will collaborate with each designer to create bespoke creations of their imagining for the limited-edition menu – completely invigorating the hotel’s institutional Afternoon Tea. To curate this celebration of creativity, culture and cake, Mount Nelson partnered with Twyg, an independent magazine operating at the intersection of fashion and sustainability. “Being involved in CXC from its inception has been such a privilege,” says Jackie May, Founder and Editor of Twyg. “This year, we’re excited to be showcasing homegrown talent, as well as two West African slow-fashion designers. For the second year running, we are highlighting the work of those who are championing a culture of care, honouring their artisans, and celebrating African fashion.”

“Set in the vibrant heart of Cape Town, it’s only fitting that we should shine a spotlight on the city’s buoyant creative spirit, from the arts and fashion to culinary delights. Championing Africa’s leading fashion designers is just one of the ways in which we’re doing this.” says General Manager Tiago Moraes Sarmento. In celebration of its 125 years in 2024, ‘The Nellie’ will continue to make its mark as the beating, cultural heart of Cape Town with an annual programme of celebratory touchpoints, across the arts, design, gastronomy, and fashion, to launch next year.

Maxhosa Africa at Collection x Confections 2022. Photo by Andile Phewa

The inaugural Confections x Collections 2022 showcased five South African fashion brands working in sustainable luxury – Thebe Magugu, Sindiso Khumalo, VIVIERS Studio, MAXHOSA AFRICA, and MMUSOMAXWELL.

The programme: 

• Feature image: Armand Dicker
• Other images: Andile Phewa and Armand Dicker
• Please note that due to visa challenges we had to change the line-up of designers