Fashion House
OVER the years the Sona red carpet has delivered its fair share of fashion hits and misses, but Sona 2018 proved to be the most stylish affair to date.
From making political statements to fashion statements, this year’s event saw the political elite and their partners upping the fashion stakes.
Bright colours, sleek silhouettes and African prints dominated the red-carpet event, often recognised as the most glamorous on the political calendar.
And the country’s top politicians and MPs, their partners and dignitaries dressed to impress.
Premier Helen Zille turned heads in a stunning tulle and chiffon sleeveless ball gown by local designer Brandon van der Vyver, who accompanied her on the red carpet.
“We chose burgundy because it goes beautifully with her skin tone, and we chose this cut because the premier is a mature woman and we wanted her to look beautiful and sophisticated at the same time,” the designer said.
Minister of Arts and Culture Nathi Mthethwa and his wife, Philisiwe, made a glamorous pair.
Of her gorgeous red silk dress, Philisiwe said: “Oh, this old thing. It’s an old Oscar de la Renta dress I had in my cupboard. And I decided to wear red because we’ve just come off Valentine’s Day.” Thembeka Ngcobo, the beautiful wife of Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Bheki Cele, looked sensational in an olive off-the-shoulder ball gown. Police Minister Fikile Mbalula’s wife, Nozuko, exuded understated elegance in a striking green gown. “I found this in the back of my wardrobe,” Mrs Mbaks said. Mandla Mandela and his beautiful wife, Rabia, looked Afrochic in matching African-inspired mustard outfits. “She makes me look good,” Mandela said of his stunning partner.