Klerksdorp Record, Klerksdorp - Two of the top fashion designers showcased at the Miss South Africa 2024 finale, studied in Klerksdorp.
Anel Botha and Gert-Johan Coetzee are both North West School of Design alumni. Anel also grew up in Klerksdorp and even though her design studio has moved to Johannesburg, she still owns a boutique in town.
This year, she celebrated a decade of being an official sponsor for the Miss SA organisation and the third year of dressing the finalists for the pageant. She dressed the top five finalists in the final scene and the newly crowned Miss South Africa, Mia le Roux looked glamorous in her sparkling evening gown.
“I dreamed of being a Miss South Africa official designer when I started studying fashion design. Each time I get the call up I have to pinch myself! It is a privilege and I take the responsibility of designing for this huge platform seriously. You’re not only there to make the finalists competing for the Miss South Africa title feel confident and look their best, but you have a responsibility to South Africa to show them that we can perform on the world stage as equals with other countries with so many more resources and opportunities.”
Anel Botha Couture is known for exclusive bridal, evening and cocktail wear. “I think it’s important for me to shine, so those aspiring South African fashion designers out there, can see that they can also do it, as well as to allow the contestants to shine so that those future girls out there can also begin to dream! I feel immense pressure to make sure I achieve this with each and every gown I create for Miss South Africa.”
One of South Africa’s most admired fashion designers, Gert-Johan Coetzee created the gowns for the opening sequence of the pageant. “I’ve poured my heart into ensuring that every detail reflects innovation and creativity. What made these gowns truly special is the artistry that went into every detail. The intricate beading, done in-house by our team of professional crafters, not only adds elegance but also embodies the spirit of South African craftsmanship. This collection is a celebration of our heritage, our creativity, and our future.’’
A third designer who dressed last year’s Miss SA, Natasha Joubert, also studied at NWSD. Jolandie Fouché’s studio is in Potchefstroom.
