Somizi Mhlongo Opens Up About the 12-Week Creation of His Tribute Dress for Busi Mhlongo

Media personality and fashion designer Somizi Mhlongo recently turned heads after designing several standout looks for the Metro FM Music Awards. He created outfits for stars including award-winning artist and content creator Liyema Pantsi, radio personality Khutso Theledi, and reality TV star Londie London. However, one dress stood out above the rest.

The most talked-about look was worn by radio presenter Zola Mhlongo. The dress was a tribute to the late music legend Busi Mhlongo and quickly went viral.

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Somizi designed a baby pink latex dress covered in 87 500 beads to honour his late aunt. The detailed piece featured intricate beadwork on a challenging latex base that hugged the body perfectly, along with a matching cape. The dress was created in collaboration with beading artist Morgan Mahape and took 12 weeks to complete.

Sharing the journey on Instagram, Somizi gave fans a closer look at how the design came together. He said, “Just a little background story about what it took to create this piece of art. The idea came to me in December 2025. Started sketching in January. Found out about Morgan on the 3rd of March. Started working on the dress 10th of March. Had to create it in Durban coz Morgan is based there. And I was worried about how im gonna transport it without breaking it. If one strand breaks the art piece is done.
Made by MHLONGO
Worn by MHLONGO
Honouring a MHLONGO.”

In another post, he described the dress as more than just fashion. He shared, “NJOMANE THE LEGACY. 3 Generations of talent. This is not just a dress. It’s an art piece that will be enjoyed for generations to come. Paying homage to Mam Busi Mhlongo. 12 weeks of dangling beads. Crafted by the gifted Morgan Mahape @mahapemorgan and designed by Somizi for @sompirefemme Modelled by the daughter of Bhebhe Makhedama. Khulemini. Mhlongo.”