How AFI Atelier Created Zola Mhlongo’s Show-Stopping Metro FM Awards Gown
Cameras flashed almost in unison as Zola Mhlongo, the actress and Metro FM radio presenter, walked down the black carpet at the Metro FM Music Awards Nominees Announcement Party. And she revelled in the attention.
She expertly posed, with a focus that every angle of her black lace gown was captured. Her confidence was evident- she knew she looked beautiful. Everything had come together perfectly for one of the biggest nights in her career.
As the host of the event, she knew all eyes would be on her, so she turned to the AFI Atelier to create an unforgettable look. We went behind the scenes with the AFI Atelier designers on the process of making the gown.
The vision was clear, as Loice Dube, designer at the AFI Atelier and the AFI Fastrack Prize 2023/24 winner, explains.
"We were tasked with crafting a custom, intricate dress for a very special lady. Our biggest inspiration was Zola herself. We studied her personal style, her silhouette, and designed something that would accentuate her natural beauty. We wanted this gown to be an extension of her confidence and grace. We really wanted to design something that would complement her beautiful shape and accentuate her African curves."
The final creation was a masterpiece: a form-fitting black beaded lace gown with a plunging illusion neckline and ruched skirt. The skin-tone bodice, adorned with embroidered black lace vines and crystals, was complemented by a sculptural attachment, elevating the design into the realm of haute couture.
One of the gown's most striking elements was the intricate black lace vine detailing, gracefully climbing from the hip and weaving into the bodice.
A couture piece of this calibre typically requires weeks of meticulous craftsmanship, Zola’s gown was no exception. The night before the event, the design team was putting on the final touches on the gown, refining every detail, ensuring perfection down to the final stitch.
"As you can see, it's intricate," Loice said, gesturing to the lace embroidery. "We are probably going to spend all night to get all these beautiful details on the dress. This is the real side of fashion- the unseen side of things that people don't see. It takes a long time to create a gown as intricate as this one."
Zola’s reaction upon seeing the completed gown was everything the designers had hoped for.
"She let out a scream of pure joy, her eyes welled up with emotion—it was a moment of validation for all of us. That kind of reaction is what every designer dreams of," Loice revealed. "She loves the dress. Her first reaction was a reaction that every designer dreams of."
For Zola, this design choice held deep significance. "This dress tells a story," she said. "The vines rising from my hips symbolise growth, transformation, and the beauty of embracing one’s journey. When the designers presented the gown concept and the exquisite fabrics they had chosen, I could already envision myself in it before even seeing the final piece.”
🔥🔥Our gorgeous host for this evening @ZolaZeelovin dressed by @AFI_sa #MMA25 #METROFMMusicAwards2025 pic.twitter.com/jFIfe1lxLV
— METROFM SABC (@METROFMSA) February 27, 2025
After seeing the gown, Zola could not hide her emotions. "Working with the AFI Atelier was an incredible journey. They took the time to walk me through every element of the design. Each detail was intentional—every curve and every embellishment was meant to celebrate my body. When I finally saw the gown, I was in awe. I absolutely love it."
Experience the AFI Atelier Difference:
The AFI Atelier understands that every occasion is unique and every client deserves a gown that reflects their individual style and personality. Like Zola Mhlongo, you, too, can experience the magic of a custom-designed gown.
Whether you're preparing for a red-carpet event, a special celebration, or simply seeking a bespoke piece that makes you feel extraordinary, our team of expert designers is ready to bring your dreams to life.
Book Your Consultation Today:
Attending the Metro FM Music Awards? Schedule a consultation with AFI Atelier and let us create a masterpiece that's uniquely yours.