Among the standout couturiers chosen to craft bespoke garments for the Miss SA 2026 grand finale is Soweto-born designer Sello Medupe, founder and creative director of the renowned fashion house Scalo by Sello Medupe.
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As the countdown to the Miss South Africa 2026 coronation ceremony intensifies, the Miss South Africa Organisation has officially unveiled the line-up of elite fashion designers set to dress the top 12 finalists at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on 14 November 2026.
Crafting architectural elegance and African vision
Established in 2009, Scalo has earned widespread acclaim across Africa’s high-fashion landscape for its bold silhouettes, intricate tailoring, and forward-thinking aesthetic. Medupe’s signature approach seamlessly fuses futuristic design elements with traditional African luxury, creating garments that embody both structural strength and regal elegance.
Fashion scholars and industry analysts from institutions such as the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Department of Fashion Design and the Design Academy of Fashion frequently cite Medupe’s work as a masterclass in modern garment construction.
By utilising innovative texturing, precise structural boning, and rich textile selections, Scalo’s creations showcase how African luxury fashion can push boundaries on international runways while honouring authentic cultural craftsmanship.
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Elevating purpose-driven fashion on Mzansi’s biggest stage
Joining an esteemed roster of South African design powerhouses, including David Tlale, Gavin Rajah, Orapeleng Modutle, and House of Nala, Medupe will contribute to dressing the top 12 finalists across key runway segments, including the evening gown showcase.
The collaborative showcase aligns with Miss South Africa’s ongoing commitment to celebrating local creative industries and promoting sustainable, homegrown design talent on a global stage.
Industry bodies such as the South African Fashion Council (SAFC) and African Fashion International (AFI) have lauded the pageant’s platform for providing local designers with unprecedented visibility.
For Medupe, presenting Scalo’s craftsmanship on the Miss SA stage reinforces the transformative power of fashion, turning each gown into a canvas of empowerment, individuality, and artistic excellence as the next national ambassador is crowned.
Featured image: Instagram/@sello_medupe
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