Africa Fashion Week London: Meet the Designers

Africa Fashion Week London is still one of the most reliable fashion weeks in the world after 13 years! Following a stellar performance at Africa Fashion Week Brasil, AFWL is back to add a little samba spice to the proceedings.
Due to significant building renovations, this year’s event will relocate from its traditional home at Freemasons’ Hall to a venue in Central London.

Additionally, the show is somewhat altering our format. On Day 1 (Friday, October 27), they will serve as the venue for the UK Africa Trade Expo. People will be able to attend eminent panel discussions and workshops, shop at the exhibitor stands, and attend.

On Day 2 (Saturday, October 28), exhibitor browsing resumes before our renowned (and fantastic!) catwalk showcases of the best in African creativity and design continue.

Day 3 (Sunday, October 29) concludes with the Black History & Lifestyle Awards x AFWL VIP Gala event after additional shopping is done.
While AFWL2023, final preparations are being done, a more comprehensive itinerary will be issued.
However, the following designers and exhibitors will be on exhibition this year, along with some of the innovations that will be on display:

1. OJ Clothings
OJ Clothings, a menswear company based in Lagos’ Lekki neighborhood, adds something to a man’s silhouette.
OJ Samuel, the developer of the company, believes his designs are artistic, unique, original, and inventive since they push the boundaries of conventional and modern.

2. ÌK-PEN
K-PEN is a high-end women’s fashion label with headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria. Ikpen Yvonne Akwitti created the company in 2006 with the aim of achieving perfection and workmanship.
The firm specializes in contemporary African-inspired design and offers bespoke and prêt-à-porter services. It uses ethnic accents and interesting silhouettes to create traditional bridal gowns, everyday staples, resort wear, and dazzling dresses.

3. Elpis Megalio
The pinnacle of bespoke and ready-to-wear fashion, Elpis Megalio is designed for the contemporary woman seeking uniqueness and expression.
Olufunke Afolabi, the creative director, is inspired by the confluence of art and wanderlust and courageously explores the brilliant world of colors, pushing design boundaries with unmatched craftsmanship.
Elpis Megalio is a proponent of giving women the tools they need to embrace their individuality and exude confidence. Their carefully chosen items are made with the intention of making every woman feel truly beautiful when dressed in clothes made just for her.

4. Piilz and Poizn
Piillz & Poizn, known for their avant-garde women’s clothing that features distinctive, high-fashion pieces intended to make a dramatic statement, are back on the AFWL runway. Piillz & Poizn has swiftly established a reputation as one of the most daring and cutting-edge fashion brands available thanks to its reckless approach to fashion.
Ifeoma Kate Umenyiora established the brand in 2018 to showcase her love of pushing the limits of fashion.
Piillz and Poizn is known for its immaculate attention to detail, opulent fabrics, and cutting-edge, avant-garde designs. Piilz and Poizn’s aesthetic is based on the notion that clothing should be lively, adventurous, and entertaining.

A focus on shape and structure is one of the defining characteristics of Piillz and Poizn’s design ethos.
The clothing line Piilz n Poizn is designed with delicate draping, thoughtful cut-outs, and sculptural designs that highlight the body’s inherent curves.
Piillz and Poizn’s clothing line has a distinct, high-end vibe that is unequaled by other fashion labels because of this attention to detail.

About Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL)

Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL), which was established in 2011 by Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi, is the biggest fashion event in Europe for showcasing and supporting African and African-inspired design talent.

With a collaborative catwalk, exhibition, and business development program, AFWL has been in the forefront of raising awareness of Africa’s developing fashion industry on the global market and showcasing the continent’s up-and-coming designers and apparel sector.
Since 2011, AFWL has created at least 10 events, including the Mayor of London’s Black History Month festivities, and staged 10 catwalk shows while also providing expertise to at least 10 more events.

A highlight on the yearly fashion calendar, we have also shown over 800 young designers and exhibitors from Africa, Europe, and America to close to 70,000 visitors, including buyers, retailers, key industry figures, and the media.
Designers benefit from AFWL’s contacts, expertise, and understanding within the fashion industry.

AFWL is dedicated to building a platform for African and African-inspired designers that not only presents them to an international market but also supports them in creating a sustainable business that is globally recognized and fosters social change in Africa. The core team of AFWL is made up of experienced fashion industry experts and business professionals.

Content courtesy of Business Day & NFH