Roberto Cavalli has opened its first flagship boutique on the African continent. This exquisite ‘African-inspired’ concept boutique launched on Thursday evening, 16 May 2024, in Durban’s iconic Oceans Mall Umhlanga, known as the city’s prime destination for high-end local and international fashion brands.
“Roberto Cavalli is synonymous with joy and optimism, glamour and success, luxury and beauty. The brand’s DNA is deeply rooted in the Italian quality of the best craftsmanship tradition and exuberant creativity.” Roberto Cavalli said in a press statement.
Oceans Umhlanga Development Chief Executive, Brian Mpono, shared that “the brainchild behind Oceans Umhlanga, Businessman and Philanthropist, Mr Vivian Reddy, has created an environment for these International Brands to come to Durban and lighten the city” and described the R4.3 billion development as the “Miami of Africa” which emulates part of Oceans Umhlanga Development’s vision. Mpono added “We are merely reassuring the rest of Africa about our position as Durban, as KwaZulu-Natal, and as South Africa that we are the gateway to Africa and we are consistent in displaying that.”
Speaking at the event’s official opening, Roberto Cavalli spokesperson said, “This has been a dream of Roberto Cavalli’s for 10 years and it has been 10 years in the making, this is exactly where we need to be, and this last piece of luxury of the master puzzle that Mr Reddy has created is exactly the start of the chapter of Roberto Cavalli in South Africa.”
In a press release, the illustrious fashion house highlighted that the new boutique at Oceans Mall is about bringing the brand’s unique designs to a new continent, “but also about creating a space where fashion, art, and culture converge.”
This significant milestone was celebrated as the city of Durban hosted the 2024 Edition of Africa’s Travel Indaba.
In his comments, Mr Vivian Reddy said, “Tonight marks a historic night for South Africa and Africa to have the first Roberto Cavalli boutique opening here at the iconic Oceans Mall, which has already made waves across South Africa with all its amazing brands from international fashion houses.” Reddy added that he was excited about Roberto Cavalli showing its confidence in opening their first boutique in Africa, in Durban.
With Africa’s richest horseracing event, the Hollywood Bets Durban July coming up in the city of Durban, Reddy was excited that people will be able to do shopping within the city of Durban.
The grand opening event was attended by local and international celebrities which included the cast members of The Real Housewives of Durban’s Ameigh Thompson, Angel Ndlela, Slindile Ndlovu, Annie Ludick, and Vivian Reddy’s wife, Sorisha Naidoo, as well as fashion influencers, and media.
The store is now open with its exclusive Spring 2024 Collection at the Platinum Walk in Durban’s Oceans Mall.
