South African fashion designer and actress, Enhle Mbali-Mlotshwa, recently paid a heartfelt tribute to the late veteran actress Connie Chiume by donning a dress she had originally designed for her. Enhle showcased this special garment at the Basadi Music Awards, turning the moment into a touching homage to the beloved actress, who passed away after a brief illness.
The South African entertainment industry has been mourning the loss of Connie Chiume, a respected and cherished figure who left an indelible mark on the arts. Connie, who was known for her powerful performances and enduring presence on screen, passed away at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg. Enhle Mbali, who had been closely connected with the actress, decided to honor her by wearing the dress that she had meticulously designed for Connie earlier this year.
The dress holds a deep significance for Enhle, as it was originally crafted in March 2024 by her fashion label, Essie Apparel. The designer had intended for Connie to wear the dress at a prestigious event. However, after Connie’s passing, Enhle decided that the best way to commemorate her friend’s legacy was to wear the dress herself at the Basadi Music Awards. Enhle took to Instagram to share the story behind the dress and her decision to wear it in Connie’s memory.
In her Instagram post, Enhle wrote: “This dress, like many of my others, has a story—I’ll keep it short though. It was completed by the @essie_apparel team for Mama @conniechiume in March. We ended up going for something more simple to save this particular dress for a lifetime achievement award. Then I was to use it for something else as I was in love with this baby. After finding out about Mama resting, I decided to wear it to the @basadiinmusicawards_sa this past weekend as a reminder to myself of how fab Mama was. And oh boy, did I look fab. Mama’s #EmpressEnhle. I will miss her stories, but oksalayo we looked cute.”
Enhle Mbali’s tribute is a reflection of the close bond she shared with Connie Chiume, as well as her deep respect for the late actress’s legacy. The emotional post resonated with many of Enhle’s followers, who admired her for turning a moment of personal grief into a celebration of Connie’s life.
Since launching her fashion label, Essie Apparel, at South Africa Fashion Week in 2020, Enhle has quickly made a name for herself in the fashion industry. Her talent and creativity have not gone unnoticed, as she recently won the Best Designer Collection award at the Fashion Community Week in America. Enhle’s work continues to captivate audiences both locally and internationally, and her tribute to Connie Chiume is yet another testament to her dedication and artistry.
As Enhle Mbali continues to grow her brand and create stunning designs, she remains deeply connected to the people and stories that inspire her work. The dress she wore in honor of Connie Chiume is more than just a fashion statement; it is a symbol of love, respect, and the enduring impact that the late actress had on those who knew and admired her.