The best of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Joburg Day 1

If you want to keep your finger on the pulse of all the hottest local fashion trends, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Joburg 2016 is where you need to be.

The four-day event, in collaboration with African Fashion International (AFI), kicked off last night at Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton.

The Sunday Times Fashion Weekly team were buzzing with adrenaline as they raced around snapping street-style shots of all the best-dressed fashionistas (look out for them in this weekend's paper) before taking their seats for the runway shows.

Designers Khosi Nkosi, Marianne Fassler, Stefania Morland and The Intern by David Tlale were all part of the line up for the night.

Here are some of the stand-out looks that we loved.

KHOSI NKOSI

Shweshwe prints featured heavily in Nkosi’s collection, which included casual wear and outfits that would be perfect to don to a traditional wedding. This jumpsuit was one of the highlights, as were the fishtail braids the models were sporting.

MARIANNE FASSLER

A strong colour palette featuring shades of green, purple, black and brown, coupled with the rich textures of velvet, silk and leather, ensured that there was no shortage of drama in Fassler’s show – just look at this stunning pleated hat!

STEFANIA MORLAND

Flowing, feminine gowns and a pastel colour palette added to the dream-like feel of Morland's show. It was as though the models had stepped out of a beautiful painting, much like the one pictured on the backdrop to the runway.

THE INTERN BY DAVID TLALE

Nothing excites us more than discovering brand new talent, which is why we applaud Tlale for putting looks created by five of his interns in the spotlight.

Each intern showed a mini collection, and if the outfits below are anything to go by, it’s clear that these young designers are worth keeping an eye on.

Cindy Mfabe:

Maxwelle Welile Boko:

Mbali Buthelezi:

Ntando Ngwenya:

Siphosihle Masango:

All photos: Simon Deiner/ SDR Photo