Saturday 26th of September 2026

Nairobi, Kenya

Tag: African Fashion

Meet Dennis Osadebe The Man Disrupting The African Fashion Industry founder and C.E.O of D&D Clothing

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

Dennis Osadebe is the founder of D&D Clothing with the head office in Dubai. Being more than 10 years in the entertainment business in Nigeria, he has seen the lack of professionally made costumes and artistic clothing. That’s how we start our office in Dubai, by creating different custom made orders.

Now Dennis Osadebe is a motivational speaker, promoting Africa and African fashion all over the world. After having different branches and representatives in Europe, Canada, the US, and Australia we are back home to Africa and opened our first branch in Kenya.

Ann Mumbi:  Can you describe D&D Clothing Company, the idea, and concept as if I knew nothing about it or the market it is in?

Dennis Osadebe: D&D Clothing is an international fashion brand with an African soul. We don’t just do fashion, we create an African Fashion Movement that will reach every home. We have achieved big success because of the belief and hard work of our D&D family. We create 6 amazing collections per year for males and females and divide our products in 3 directions business casual, Urbach chic, and glamour.

Our main goal is to be represented in different countries, where people are proud to wear MADE IN AFRICA. Being the number 1 brand in the Middle East, gave us the possibility to produce our own fabrics that have a special story. Our own production is located in Kenya, from where we distribute items to all showrooms and shops. Started far from home with a lot of difficulties We are finally back in Africa because that’s where we belong to! AFRICA IS HOME!

AM: What were you doing before D&D Clothing Company, and what motivated you to start the business?

DO: I (Dennis Osadebe) was into the entertainment business in Nigeria, I’m the one who brought Nollywood to Asaba! But I wanted to grow outside Africa, I know we can do it. I see so many talented people in Africa and they need to be out there to expose!

AM: What techniques do you use? Tell us about the process.

DO: If we are talking about production techniques – we use only the latest technology of production. It’s about IT control, it about the latest machines for patterns, for stitching. We are very keen on everything the best, and invest a lot in production and people.

AM: How did you learn/master this technique and why do you use it? 

DO: We try to learn from the best, of course, as well you never learn better than from your own mistakes. But we learn from others as well

AM: What challenges did you face?

DO: The main and the biggest challenge for any business is a team. It’s not easy to find people who will be there with you in water and fire. But it’s possible. So we always keep looking for the best team.

AM: How did the obstacles make you feel? 

DO: There is nothing you cannot do in this world. So you only become stronger.

AM: What were your achievements? 

DO: Our main achievement is to win 3rd place in the World Fashion Awards, which we are very proud of. we were the first African company ever that took place and we were right after Italy. which gives us so much courage to do more, we are limitless.

AM: Favorite moments? 

DO: Once per year, we do African Fashion Party, that’s such an amazing moment, where we invite our customers, all team and partners from different countries, and we make a crazy party in African style with all D&D Clothing dresses.

People can choose any of the designs, we create them and it becomes one of the favorite moments of the year not only for us but for our customers as well.

Check our latest in Dubai

The next one we are planning to make it in Kenya!

AM: How do you get dressed in the morning? 

DO: I have a plan for my dressing for one week, and of course, I wear only my own brand. As well once per month or two, I have days when I test our new designs, It’s the biggest test control in our company! I’m very strict about dressing, it should not be only stylish, but it should be comfortable, you should feel on top of the rook on it.

AM: What’s your take on the Kenya fashion industry? 

DO: We have seen a lot of talented people in Kenya, amazing designers, models, but they are lacking practical education. I hope in the future we will create a base and education for designers to blow all over the world.

AM: How different is the Kenya fashion industry compared to East Africa and Africa’s fashion industry at large? 

DO: I think the main difference is opportunities, in East Africa, it is so easy to blow if you do professional things, Not only in fashion, a lot of opportunities that people don’t see.

AM: Any future collaboration with Kenyan or International fashion designers?  

DO: We hope in the future to collaborate with talented fashion designers

AM: If you were given the opportunity to work with a local or international fashion designer who will you love to work with? 

DO: We would work with Philipp Plein. I hope next year we will do something together.

AM: What are your thoughts on fashion in Africa? 

DO: I think it’s at the peak of demand now. It’s a culture that did not die like in any other country. Where do you see people in Europe wearing traditional clothing?

Even by the way officially they don’t even have anything traditional. So African fashion will be growing only all over the world.

AM: What has changed during this period of Covid-19? 

DO: The main challenges are to change the business strategy for the next 1-2 years. Keep all the team while the profit was reduced. But it’s a good time to do more.

AM: How has D&D Clothing Company adopted the new technology virtual fashion show during and after the Coronavirus pandemic? 

DO: VR fashion shows is not a new technology but it’s something that people have seen just now, during covid. New technology is for example Augmented reality. Its future fabrics with molecular structure, different Self-healing materials with the ability to heal after being wounded. That’s the new technologies.

AM: How are African fashion designers influencing fashion in the western world? 

DO: They are influencing by their creativity. Our African people are more creative than westerns. So if you see African person in the western world, they have every chance to be number 1

AM: What can the Kenyan fashion industry learn from the western world? 

DO: They can learn how to do business. Management, timing, any operational area, sometimes I can request for information or quotation from the company and they will send me after 3 days.

Like you are begging people for you to send them money. You will never see this kind of way of doing business in the western world.

AM: Over the last few years have you noticed any significant changes with the African fashion trends? 

DO: African fashion will always be trendy

AM: When dealing with Africa is it important for the fashion world to be ethical and socially responsible, and put in place strong corporate social responsibility governance? 

DO: It is important, but if you will check, it’s not so easy to do in Africa like to say.

AM: Tell us about The JW Show or Kenyan Fashion week and your experience at the Show.

DO: Amazing creative guys, I adore their ideas, they have a big future.

AM: Where can we find your designs? 

DO: You can find our designs on our website danddclothing.com

AM: Share with us your social media platforms or a website

DO: We can be reached through our social platforms.

Website: danddclothing.com
Instagram: @danddclothing
Facebook: @danddclothingandtailoringllc
YouTube: D&D Clothing
WhatsApp: +254 701 223333

AM: What does eCommerce mean to you and your business?

DO: It’s a must. If you are not online – you don’t exist.

AM: Do you think eCommerce is important for African fashion designers that are trying to get recognized and reach a global market? 

DO: Highly important. It’s a must. You supposed to start yesterday

AM: How does your strategy change when running an online store to an offline store? 

DO: The strategies by themselves are different for online and offline stores.

But offline is dying, The companies that have been on the market for more than 240 years now like Debenhams they just shut down and filed for bankruptcy. And in Africa after 5-7 years, people will stop buying offline.

AM: Where do you see African fashion in the next 5 to 10 years? 

DO: I see it number 1 by popularity among all people in the world

AM: What 5 pieces of advice would you give to young African fashion designers wanting to enter the fashion industry? 

DO:

  1. Don’t be afraid
  2. Show, don’t tell
  3. Do everything and anything
  4. Don’t do it alone
  5. Don’t listen to anyone

AM: Is there anything else you would like to add?

DO: I would like to say that I’m proud to be an African and I want all people around the world to be proud of wearing MADE IN AFRICA. And all of us have a chance to do it!

Content courtesy of D&D Clothing & Nairobi fashion hub 

 

 

 

Africans Must Marry Dressed In Their Native African Attire – Says Reno Omokri

Posted on by Fashion Police

Reno Omokri espouses so much wisdom but sadly, the nuggets of acuity he propagates on his social media handles designed to change the mindset and lifestyle of Africans are yet to be assimilated.

The former presidential spokesperson and lawyer have dropped another beautiful piece on his Twitter handle about the way we conduct weddings in Africa. In his estimation, Africans should drop the tie and suit for their native dresses during wedding ceremonies since white weddings only resonate with the white people and not Biblical.

He said on Twitter; “In 2021, Africans don’t need a suit and tie and a white dress for weddings. The entire structure of the White Wedding is fashioned after EUROPEAN culture NOT Christian culture. Today, even African Muslims now do it. Marry in your native African wears!”

Content courtesy of GH Gossip & Nairobi fashion hub 

Highlights From Rwanda Fashion 2020

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

The fashion industry in Rwanda, like other sectors, suffered many losses last year. The industry was hit by the pandemic with a big drop in sales registered globally, as the demand for clothes and fashion accessories went down.

With the lockdown measures that were put in place by the government taking effect, fashion designers couldn’t organize any events which had been planned, hence setting them back.

Despite the challenges, this didn’t hinder new fashion entrants to showcase and exhibit unique styles.  We bring you the fashion highlights of 2020;

Ikamba Apparel

This is a lately launched ‘Made in Rwanda’ clothing brand with a touch of Vogue and a taste for African design, It was founded by Gratia Teta, Deborah Mwanganjye, and Kessy Mugabo Kayiganwa from African Leadership University (ALU).

Ikamba Apparel comprises three young students who are hungry to follow their dream, thus eventually creating a unity that led to a business. They are all students pursuing International Business Trade at African Leadership University (ALU).

The brand caters to all age groups and targets both middle and high-class clothing styles; epitomized via an assortment of elegant and streetwear.

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Kezem clothing brand

23-year-old Emmanuel Keza Niyonsenga is the brains behind Kezem, a new Rwandan clothing brand that ‘communicates the Rwandan story and Africa in general’.

Though his skill is mostly self-taught, he also got additional training from Rwanda Clothing, a local fashion brand where he was skilled in the significance and power of a brand, and how to work with clients to satisfaction.

He has designed many of the Iwacu Muzika festival artistes, many of whom are Art Rwanda Ubuhanzi colleagues and celebrities like Alyn Sano, among models and other celebrities.

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‘Rufuku’ collections

Laurent Nsengumuremyi, also known as Nelly, 25, also sought means to penetrate the fashion industry, which is why he invented ‘Rufuku’.

‘Rufuku’ is a fabric of old-fashioned blankets that he uses to make all sorts of attires, from blazers, cardigans, to skirts, dresses, and many others.

Zoi

Zoi, which is Greek for ‘life’, is a clothing line that was started by the Mackenzies. This is a group of five young ladies namely Naomie Nishimwe, who is the current Miss Rwanda 2020, Kelly Uwineza, Kathia Kamali Uwase, Brenda Iradukunda and Pamela Loana Uwase. They are all related.

Their brand that was launched on October 9 produces clothes for all genders, with the choice to scale up an outfit liable on the size of the customer.

The Mackenzies use social media to market and advertise their own clothing line, acting as models for their own designs. The demand for their clothes was enormous which pushed them to work harder.

Moshions goes international

Local fashion house “Moshions” is not only focusing on the local market but also eyeing the international market in the most effective way.

Moshions’ aim is to create a traditionally enthused frill brand that has roots in Rwanda as well as Africa.

The brand received criticism recently when it unveiled its online store, as many people accused them of setting high prices for clothes that they think are not supposed to be expensive.

According to Dany Rugamba, the business manager at Moshions, the people who cannot afford a cloth will certainly say something is expensive, even when there are many others who can afford it.

To him, the same feedback was given even when the fashion house was just starting, yet people actually buy. It is this support that has grown the brand.

Fashion brands that featured on Beyoncé Knowles’ website

Four Rwandan fashion brands; House of Tayo, Inzuki Designs, Moshions, and Haute Baso on August 2, were amazed to see their creations listed among the top African fashion brands that featured on American singer Beyoncé Knowles’ website.

Most of the designers said that there was no application made to feature on the platform, but their designs were suggested by their customers and famous fashion stars in Africa and beyond.

East Africa Fashion Awards

Two Rwandan media personalities, Makeda Mahadeo and Christelle Kabagire were nominated for East Africa’s Most Stylish Female Host of the Year, at the East Africa Fashion Awards.

The event took place in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania in March. Makeda is a Kigali-based CNBC Africa journalist, media personality, deejay, and emcee, while Christelle is known for her fashion show ‘In Style’, which airs on Rwanda Television every Tuesday and Wednesday. The event sought to distinguish the most outstanding achievements of individuals and brands that contributed to the growth of the fashion industry in East Africa.

Face masks

When the government announced the compulsory wearing of face masks in public due to the Covid-19 outbreak, many fashion designers and manufacturers came on board to produce masks. While face masks range from Rwf300 (surgical masks) to about Rwf1, 000 (cotton face masks) for different sellers, Moshions drew a lot of reaction from the public as their face masks go for Rwf10, 000.

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After thorough training on producing mask equipment and inspections done by Rwanda FDA, more than 20 domestic companies were authorized to repurpose facilities into the production of PPEs, in April. Although their worry at that time was that the demand for the equipment would exceed their supply, it is the opposite. By August, 40 local manufacturers had unsold stocks of over three million face masks.

Content courtesy of The New Times Rwanda & Nairobi fashion hub 

Tshepo Jeans opens New Store in Hyde Park South Africa

Posted on by Fashion Police

Bespoke denim designer Tshepo Mohlala ended 2020 on a high by opening a new store in Hyde Park, north of Johannesburg.

Founded in 2015, Tshepo is a lifestyle brand that offers a range of bespoke denim clothing and ready-to-wear products.

The denim designer whose products are also available in Amsterdam.

Mohlala took to social media to make the announcement on Monday morning.

Sharing with his 58K followers on Twitter, he wrote: “Hey South Africa, Please come help us celebrate our new store opening this Monday in Hyde Park Shopping centre on 28 December 2020. see you there.”

Many of his followers congratulated him for growing his brand. “Congratulations Tshepo, wishing you all the success you deserve and hope to see many more stores,” commented Hinal Devchand.

Fifi Peters also complimented Mohlala for his hard work. She said: “Shout out to Tshepo Jeans that’s set to open its flagship store at Hyde Park Corner, which is owned by JSE listed property group Hyprop @TshepoJeans.

“Surprisingly, Hyprop says a number of companies have opened new stores across its malls in SA, despite the Covid19 lockdowns.”

Tshepo joins the likes of Thula Sindi, Laduma Ngxokolo, and David Tlale- who all opened new stores this year.

Sindi opened two Africa Rise stores, one in Johannesburg CBD and recently, at Menlyn, Pretoria- while Tlale’s is at Melrose Arch. Ngxokolo, the founder of Maxhosa took his luxury brand to the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.

Mohlala was inspired by the three most important women in his life to start the brand- hence the logo is a pronged crown, representing his mother, grandmother, and aunt.

Content courtesy of IOL & Nairobi fashion hub 

Last chance for South Africa local Designers to enter New Talent Search

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

Time is ticking, and if you haven’t entered the South African Fashion Week New Talent Search 2021 now is the time to do so.

With only two weeks until the applications close, South African designers are urged to join in the movement of changing how we look at fabric design within fashion design.

The New Talent Search is open to ladies’ wear designers whose businesses are based in South Africa. All designer applicants must supply a minimum of one store (this can include your store or online store) and must be under 10 years in business to qualify to enter.

To give their consumers something different, this is what the designers must look into:

  • Consider fabrics that have the least impact on the environment.
  • Natural linen, cotton, and sustainably sourced fabrics.
  • Fur and leather-free.
  • Their Designs must include print on at least 50% of the garments.
  • Zero-waste cutting such as draping, knitting, or using a zero-waste pattern.
  • Provide consumer care instructions to lengthen the garment’s longevity.
  • Create a timeless and trans-seasonal collection.

Designers must also research slow fashion to make sure they understand it in a way that they can live it and play a role in shaping the future of sustainable fashion.

They must also base their designs on 2021 world trends by combining contemporary shapes, styles, and construction with their inspirations and design talent.

The winner will walk away with prizes to the value of ± R455000

Content courtesy of   & Nairobi fashion hub 

Lifestyle Cultural Brand Day MyLane Introduces African Fashion With A Purpose

Posted on by Fashion Police

Day MyLane is a lifestyle cultural brand that strives to instill confidence and unison through its unique African fashion pieces.

Day MyLane is a one-of-a-kind, lifestyle cultural brand that amplifies cultural awareness and appreciation. The brand is delighted to share African flavor with the world through fresh, forward-thinking fashion concepts. With a catalog of clothing that boasts individuality and expression, including unique Nigerian t-shirts, Day MyLane caters to a global audience.

The company is a firm believer in praising communication across cultural lines, which is why many of their clothing designs feature inspiring phrases written in Nigerian Pidgin English.

A spin on the English phrase “Stay in your lane,” the company’s name has roots in both English and Nigerian languages. In Nigerian Pidgin English, it is not uncommon for someone to say “Dey your lane,” hence the aesthetically soothing version was born, Day MyLane. Nigerian Pidgin English phrases are highlighted throughout the brand’s website and are creatively represented on a number of pieces.

Providing a massive online collection of gentlemen’s, ladies’, and unisex apparel celebrating African fashion with rich cultural heritage concepts, Day MyLane is an all-inclusive brand that strives to evoke confidence. The company also sells dynamic accessories, including stylish masks and vibrant buttons. Each unique Day MyLane product represents their profound approach toward a unified planet.

Bold yet elegant, Day MyLane’s African fashion designs draw attention while offering heartfelt quotes that will resonate with both the wearer and even strangers passing by. This notion has been developed to break down cultural barriers and connect the human race as one. By wearing fun, expressive pieces from Day MyLane, people can feel good about doing right by themselves and by humanity.

Day MyLane products empower the people who embody them. Each individual is encouraged by these African fashion pieces and unique Nigerian t-shirts to celebrate the joy of life, whether this means feeling validated or projecting those feelings of inspiration onto others. This lifestyle cultural brand is worn by adventurers and trendsetters who seek deeper meaning in each of their choices.

“Design is my passion, but even more so, my commitment is to forging a connection between people and cultures worldwide,” says Creative Director of Day MyLane, Chika. “My mission is to help others find self-confidence while being in tune with our greater purpose on this Earth which is to come together.”

Each of Day MyLane’s wearable art pieces have been created with swift attention to detail. Chika has a vast wealth of knowledge that contributes to her creative expertise while continually expanding Day MyLane. By blending powerful messages and standout subtext with trendy African fashion statements, this lifestyle cultural brand finally allows people to dress for purpose.

Content courtesy of EIN Press wire & Nairobi fashion hub 

Serena Williams On Designing Jewelry and Supporting Black Owned Brands

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

Serena Williams is an undisputed icon. The tennis champion has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles and four Olympic gold medals, and is regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time. But off the court, she’s taken on a newer role as a fashion designer and, most recently, marked her first foray into jewelry.

Earlier this year, Williams launched her Unstoppable limited edition jewelry collection, with 100% of net proceeds from the collection benefitting Black-owned small businesses through the Opportunity Fund, an organization that provides loans to low- and moderate-income immigrants, women, and other underserved small business owners.

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“I have always had an affinity to jewelry and often I’ll wear it while I’m playing,” Williams tells Bustle. “My background, actually, is fashion design, so this is a whole new world for me. But I’ve always loved jewelry. I’ve even done a few matches in some pretty crazy pieces.”

Her latest collection, called Unstoppable With All Your Heart, features three new designs: a chain bracelet, bangle, and necklace. With each piece, a pavé diamond-accented heart complements sterling silver design elements.

Ahead, Williams shares more about her design inspiration, favorite Black-owned businesses, and current self-care routine.

How did you come up with the name Unstoppable, and what is its significance to you?

I wore a specific necklace [an elegant chain with a circle pendant] the last time I won all four Grand Slams in a row back in 2015. I felt really unstoppable with it on. That’s where the idea came from. The circular design of the Unstoppable collection was inspired by the necklace I wore at the four Grand Slams.

Why was it important for Unstoppable’s proceeds to benefit Black-owned small businesses?

We really wanted to find a way to not only give back, but to find ways that people could feel progressive during a time like this. Everyone is asking what they can do to help fight social injustice. I wanted to create an avenue for people to do that. I wanted consumers to feel good about buying a necklace or bracelet that supports women of color, Black women in particular, who are [subject] to oppression and rejection.

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Which Black-owned small businesses are you shopping from these days? Any brands you’d like to shout out?

Mahmee, founded by Melissa Hanna. Mahmee is a group of technologists and health care industry leaders that connect maternal and infant health care ecosystems together to help fill in the gaps. As you can imagine, this is a cause near and dear to me, given my birth experience to Olympia.

How have these last few months in quarantine affected your personal style? Are you more “comfort over everything,” or do you still get dressed up?

I’m definitely still comfort over everything. I love to throw on my Nike loungewear and have on something I can chase Olympia around in mommy-proof gear.

What’s your go-to look whenever you need to be put together quickly — say, for a last-minute Zoom call?

I am usually in something comfortable between training, chasing after Olympia, or sitting in meetings from my home office. When I need to look more professional, I throw on my S by Serena plaid belted overcoat. I keep it hung up in my office so I have easy access to it when I am back to back and don’t have time to get more dressed up before a Zoom meeting. It’s also a great jacket for travel. It’s light, but warm and versatile for layering in different temperatures.

Your on-the-court outfits are so iconic. What do you love most about fashion?

The reason I love fashion is because we can use it as a vehicle for sharing a powerful message. When I worked with Nike and Virgil [Abloh, CEO of the fashion label Off-White], we were able to create pieces that will inspire a new generation of athletes everywhere.

If you had to pick, what are your favorite on-the-court looks from years past? What did you love most about them?

What immediately comes to mind is the jean skirt I wore in 2004 with the high boots. But I have to say I really loved the Nike x Off-White tutu outfits [from the 2018 US Open]. Tutus are my favorite thing in life. I kept all the dresses and I still wear them sometimes.

Between the pandemic, the protests for racial justice, and general heaviness in the world right now, how are you staying creatively motivated? What does your self-care routine look like?

My self-care routine is never the same. Regardless, I always try to carve out moments to tend to myself and nurture my body  whether I’m trying a new product or staying loyal to my trusted coconut oil. It’s taken a while to fall back into a self-care routine. After having a baby, I didn’t want to do anything for myself. I wanted to do it all for my daughter. It’s a great attitude, but moms don’t treat themselves the way they deserve. So that’s my thing now.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B8ROqoGHeYn/?utm_source=ig_embed

Serena Williams Jewelry 

Written By Mekita Rivas

Content courtesy of Bustle & Nairobi fashion hub 

Wauzine Cheza Kama Wewe One Project, Two Countries, Eleven Designers, Boundless Creativity

Posted on by Fashion Police

Creative DNA x Fashion Scout present WAUZINE – a digital showcase including three limited edition digital publications, featuring 11 emerging designers from Kenya, and bringing together cross-cultural collaborations between writers, illustrators and creative teams in both London and Nairobi.

The first of our three issues explores Nairobi’s myriad neighborhoods through a fashion story by photographer Maganga Mwagogo showcasing the bold and powerful work of our designers and an in-depth essay by Awuor Onyango revealing the cultural and social ley lines that underpin the Kenyan capital.

WAUZINE is designed and created by the team at Fashion Scout, with Helen Jennings, Co-founder and Editorial Director of Nataal Media as Features Editor and showcases exclusive photoshoots under the creative direction of Sunny Dolat, Fashion Curator and Co-founder of The Nest Collective.

As the UK partner of the British Council’s year-long Creative DNA programme, Fashion Scout is spearheading this online platform in order to give the designers visibility to a global audience whilst celebrating a diverse variety of voices and creativity.

Issue 002 will go live in January and Issue 003 will be live in February just before London Fashion Week when we will feature a Wauzine fashion film on the Fashion Scout’s digital schedule.

Wauzine Cheza Kama Wewe One Project, Two Countries, Eleven Designers, Boundless Creativity

Creative DNA programme supported by the British Council is focused on promoting alternative and innovative approaches to the global fashion system with the ambition of demonstrating that the fashion sector in Kenya is a professional choice for young people and a valuable contributor to the creative economy.

The programme conducted work in six major areas: Research and Insight, Policy and Advocacy, Business Support, NESTA Creative Enterprise Programme, Fashion Incubator as well as #FashionFridays

As part of the Fashion Incubator programme, British Council is working with local fashion designers in Kenya to boost the growth of a sustainable creative industry in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic through a programme aimed at developing their skills, knowledge and global networks.

Creative DNA project is delivered by the Kenyan partner, Metta Nairobi and the UK based partner Fashion Scout, 11 fashion businesses have been immersed in a 12- month incubator programme between February 2020 and February 2021 – including a business bootcamp, personalised mentoring, competitive seed funding and will be showcasing on Fashion Scout’s digital schedule during London Fashion Week.

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Creative Enterprise: the British Council offers individuals and organisations training in business and digital skills, networking events, access to new markets and connections to resources. You can read about the Creative Enterprise programme

Content courtesy of WAUZINE, British Council, HEVA Fund,  Fashion Scout, Mettā Nairobi & Nairobi fashion hub 

Fashion Under The Baobab Trees Dakar Fashion Week takes catwalk outside and into a baobab forest

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

Given the restrictions necessitated by the spread of the coronavirus, the organiser of last weekend’s Dakar Fashion Week, held in the country’s capital, got creative by hosting it beneath the trees in an ancient baobab forest.

The 18th edition of Dakar Fashion Week was initially cancelled outright due to coronavirus restrictions, but organiser Adama Ndiaye came up with a creative alternative hosting the show outdoors instead of indoors.

Fashion Under The Baobab Trees

The result was a single magical day of sustainable and eco-responsible fashion in the baobab forest of Senegal’s Bandia Reserve.

“With COVID we had to be creative, I had to find solutions, and above all, we had to avoid cancelling the show and here I think there is enough space, so no one feels cramped,” Ndiaye said.

The catwalk was laid out between the gnarly trunks and branches of tall baobabs, a powerful symbol of Africa themselves. Models on the catwalk displayed the latest West-African fashions from both well-known and up-and-coming designers.

 

Sustainability A New Fashion Trend

The message behind the 2020 Dakar Fashion Week was that sustainability is in style. The weekend event was based around the theme of environmental responsibility and featured 20 designers whose collections were all handmade on the continent.

“A lot of the designers had already been doing ‘slow fashion’ but they didn’t know it,” Ndiaye, also a fashion designer herself, said. “It’s made here and it’s not made in huge quantities. We were so ashamed of that for years, but now we are proud of it. This is luxury.”

While the garments are hand-produced in Africa, most of the fabric used the 2020 Dakar Fashion Week was imported from abroad.

“We don’t make everything here, so we can’t create a collection that’s 100% Senegalese,” said Ndiaye, whose own line used imported material from Thailand. “But at least we took the initiative to do certain things.”

Content courtesy of The South African , France 24 & Nairobi fashion hub

Kenneth Ize Wins ARISE Fashion Week ’30 Under 30′ $100,000 Star Prize

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

After two days of fierce competition on the grandest runway in Africa, ARISE Fashion Week, Kenneth Ize has emerged winner of the 30 Under 30 competition.

The emotional winner found himself grasping for words as Naomi Campbell announced him winner of the event that kicked off on Thursday, December 10.

Ize is rewarded with a $100,000 cash prize while runners-up Ré Lagos and South African Mmuso Maxwell receive $75,000 and $50,000 respectively.

The three winners emerged from a pool of eight designers which included Lagos Space Programme, Ziva Lagos, TJWho, Onalaja and Ajabeng.

Known for his use of hand-woven West African textiles and vibrant colours, Ize’s collection boasts colorful striped jackets, tailored suits worn over tights as well as a knitted hat. With the win, the 30-year-old designer continues to expand his growing fame. He was LVMH Prize 2019 finalist.

The finale brought to a close the 2020 Arise Fashion Week which defied the odds of the pandemic and held virtually for the first time.

The theme of this year’s event was ’30 Under 30: The New Stars’ where 30 designers were selected to participate in the competition. It also featured Campbell and Alton Mason modelling for designers like Mmuso Maxwell, Bloke, Tzar Studios, Lagos Space Programme and Colrs

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This year’s event marked the first time the award is attaching a monetary reward to its ceremony and also the first time the focus is solely on young designers.

“We need a breath of fresh air. We need younger people to get into this space, and be given the accreditation they certainly deserve,” noted Ruth Osime, co-producer of ARISE Fashion Week.

She added that the monetary reward is a way of supporting young fashion entrepreneurs.

“We’re looking forward to launching a brand new designer that will also be making waves internationally,” said Osime. “It’s not just enough for us to be known only in Nigeria. One of the ways to be successful is to spread your tentacles across the world.”

Saturday night’s event marked the end of what could be best described as a celebration of African creativity and culture. For the two days, the live shows were held, young designers pushed the boundaries of creativity, showcasing layers of innovation deeply rooted in African tradition.

Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, who graced the occasion acknowledged the potential of the Nigerian fashion industry during his speech.

Emefiele reiterated the commitment of the apex bank and the Bankers Committee to growing the fashion industry, stating that “We are fully aware that the fashion industry in Nigeria can provide a positive and beneficial growth path for young Nigerians who seek to utilise their talents in creating products and services that offer value at home. And indeed, abroad.

We will continue to ensure that these skills are harnessed to support the growth of the Nigerian economy, and also support the growth, the businesses of the Nigerian youth entrepreneurs.”

Usually held in the early part of the year, this year’s event was rescheduled to December. It was held virtually and broadcast on www.ariseplay.com and ARISE NEWS Channel on DStv.

The fashion event saw 30 young designers display creativity and ingenuity on the runway. They were selected from a pool of 150 designers who vied for a spot on the show.

They were hosted to a sumptuous dinner on the first day of the event as well as given a participation fee of $5,000.

The second night saw 20 designers including Onalaja, Pepper Row, Colrs, Bloke, Mmuso Maxwell and Bibi display their designs on the runway.

Mmuso Maxwell, Bloke and Colrs had international model Alton Mason and renowned supermodel Naomi Campbell catwalk for them on the runway.

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The final day saw 10 designers showcase their designs. After their shows, the top eight designers were selected. The number was further whittled to the last three where Ize emerged the winner.

They were judged by high-profiled fashion critics and designers, including fashion designers Mai Atafo and Folake Coker; luxury retailer Abisola Kola-Daisi; and Fashion Director of GQ Style magazine, Mobolaji Dawodu; among others.

Their designs were evaluated based on their creativity, quality of design and styling.

Since its relaunch in 2018, ARISE Fashion Week continues to raise the ante and this year was no different. It attracted global attention from global industry experts like United States Artistic Director and Global Content Adviser of Conde Nast, and popularly known as the Editor-in-Chief of US Vogue, Dame Anna Wintour who connected with the event virtually. In her remarks, she lauded ARISE Fashion Event stating that the fashion world needs to start paying attention to new and emerging designers.

“It’s so important to put a light on new voices, particularly where those voices were not listened to before. To highlight not only new designers but photographers, videographers, stylers, art directors and models, and so many more.

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Wintour further commended Arise Fashion Week for bringing young design talents from Africa and beyond to the fore, showcasing their work and allowing them the chance to receive business and development support. She also encouraged the designers to see ARISE Fashion Week as a platform to showcase their excellence, special talents to the world and to use the opportunity to “meet as many people as you possibly can be proud of who you are and what you represent. That always should come first,” she said.

One of the traits of ARISE Fashion Week is the elegant union of fashion and music and music on the runway. Music stars who serenaded the models, judges and designers include Asa, Wizkid, WurlD and The Cavemen.

Content courtesy of Arise Tv & Nairobi fashion hub 

African fashion is on the rise, says Naomi Campbell And it’s about time !

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

The supermodel speaks from Lagos about inclusivity, her late grandma, and why she flies in a hazmat suit

With high-street brands collapsing and the world wearing sweatpants, 2020 has not been a stellar year for fashion. But at Arise fashion week, in Lagos, Nigeria, which concluded on Saturday, there were green shoots of hope, said Naomi Campbell. “There’s definitely a few stars here. I’m very impressed. Covid has brought out a lot of creativity in a lot of people.”

Campbell flew to Nigeria last week to take part in the African style showcase. “I was going to do it virtually,” she said by phone from Lagos, “and then I thought, you know what? I want to go and bring awareness to their great work. It’s important on many levels, because Arise gives these young designers a platform to be globally recognised, to be embraced by fashion weeks around the world, and really to be included.”

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This year’s event took the socially-distanced format of a talent search. Thirty African designers aged under 30 were selected to show their collections to a virtual audience, with an overall winner chosen by a roster of judges including American artist Kehinde Wiley and South African designer David Tlale. The shortlist included non-binary sustainable label Lagos Space Programme, ultra-chic MmusoMaxwell and the eventual winner, Kenneth Ize, who showed at Paris fashion week for the first time this year. All received $5,000, while Ize was awarded $100,000 and an extra jolt of publicity in the form of Campbell walking in his show on Saturday evening.

Mentoring was also be part of the deal for the winner, said Campbell. It was particularly important as the wider world slowly woke up to Africa’s creativity and spending power.

“There has, in the past, been the wrong perception about the continent and the creativity that comes out of it,” she said. “Right about now, everyone’s kind of got it, finally for example, that Nigeria is one of the biggest emerging markets with the under-30s, so everyone is looking in this direction. But we don’t want Africa to be considered as a trend.

“These designers are finally getting the notoriety that they deserve  and they are going to keep their notoriety.”

Supporting African designers working in innovative and sustainable ways is just one way to propel fashion towards positive change post Covid-19. “People want affordable, sustainable fashion  and that’s what we are trying to do here,” said the model.

The notoriously white and privileged fashion business must also be inclusive if it is to reset in a positive way. Campbell has been speaking out on this subject for decades, long before the industry’s recent outpouring of apologies and diversity strategies in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement.

“It’s kind of embarrassing, in 2020, to finally have all of this happen, to wake up to that. You should have been doing that already – that’s my opinion. I have not really taken part in any of these discussions because I find them a little bit insulting,” said Campbell.

“I’ve been pushing this thing for so many years, so now, for me, there is no change. What I’m doing is exactly what I was doing before this movement started and I’m going to continue. It’s what I believe in, basically.”

Did Campbell feel these latest pronouncements were significant and real? “We’ll see. If they make noise about it, and it’s publicly known, you can hold them to it, can’t you? But I do believe in action and not words. Still, I try to keep optimistic.”

What was exciting, she said, was the global youth movement. “They have found their voices, and they are speaking out and demanding what they want. And they are change.”

Campbell has had a strange, sad year, after the death of her grandmother, to whom she was very close. “This time has been tough for people to grieve together,” she said, with Covid rules preventing a significant funeral. “She was so loved. Once we get the vaccine, or whatever it is that is going to be the new reset, we will give her a proper send-off.”

Otherwise, in lockdown, “I have enjoyed my little cocoon. I’ve tried not to have any expectations – living within one day and then the other day; learning patience, because this is not going to disappear as quickly as we would like it to; and understanding that being alone doesn’t mean you are lonely.”

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She has also spent time filming her YouTube show, No Filter with Naomi, learning to rig her own lights and delving into her impressive contacts book for guests; a recent tete-a-Zoom with Mariah Carey was particularly memorable. While filming, she is as partial to waist-up dressing as the rest of the world: “I have really lived in kaftans and sweats. I only get dressed when I have to do No Filter, and then I’m only dressed from the top up, with my slippers on the bottom – happy feet!”

It was on her YouTube channel in July 2019 that Campbell revealed what now feels like an eerily prescient pre-flight hygiene routine, in which she laboriously wiped every surface of the plane that might touch her body with anti-bacterial wipes.

In March, she took this a step further, flying home for the first lockdown wearing a full hazmat suit accessorised with a Burberry cape. The cape has since been donated to an as yet undisclosed museum where it will be presented as a defining object of this bizarre year, but she will fly in hazmat suits for the foreseeable future, including for the journey home from Lagos: “It’s nice that no one looks at me like a mad hatter any more.”

Written by Hannah Marriott

Content courtesy of The Guardian & Nairobi fashion hub 

 

20 Fashion Designers Walk ARISE Fashion Week 2020 Runway Today

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

After being hosted to a glamorous dinner last night at Eko Hotels and Suites, 20 designers out of the 30 selected will walk the ARISE Fashion Week runway today. The designers will go in four batches, each set consisting of five designers.
Also lined up are music stars that will perform alongside the fashion catwalk.

The electro-fusion singer WurlD will open the show, performing for the first set of designers. For the second set, multi-talented artist and fashion designer Wavy the Creator will take the stage. Since his emergence on the creative scene three years ago, the artist has been on a meteoric rise.

Highlife crooners The Cavemen will accompany the third set, The Lagos-based musical group is made up of two brothers, Kingsley and Benjamin Okorie, who are bent on reintroducing Highlife to a new generation.

Saving the best for last, foremost musician Wizkid will perform to bring the show to an end, Usually held early in the year, the 2020 fashion , event is hosted virtually due to the ongoing pandemic that is still upending travels and social gatherings Also, this year marks the first time the award is solely focusing on young and emerging designers.

Themed ’30 Under 30:The New Stars,’ 30 young designers were selected from a pool of 150 to compete in the show, making it the first time a monetary reward is attached to the grand fashion event.

According to Co-producer Ruth Osime, the seed money provided to the designers is a way of supporting young designers who face pecuniary challenges when setting shop.
Echoing similar sentiments, renowned supermodel Naomi
The event will be live-streamed on Arise Play and Arise TV/THISDAY platforms.

Campbell Wants African Designers Given Global Attention, Meanwhile, at age 50, international supermodel Naomi Campbell who is currently in Nigeria  for the ARISE Fashion Week has one ambition: to see the fashion world embrace African designers.
“I want to see the fashion world embrace African designers and all these young designers from emerging markets. They need to be accepted and given a platform. Whatever I can do to help make that happen, that’s why I’m here, that’s what I’ll do,” she said in a recent interview with UK publication, The Telegraph.

This explains her unflinching support for the grandest fashion event in Africa. Since 2018, Campbell has been a regular face at ARISE Fashion Week, strutting the runway in iconic pieces by designers, including the young designer Kenneth Ize who is participating at this year’s edition.
“Kenneth has had a lot of great attention. It’s been wonderful how he’s been embraced. But we still have a lot to do in terms of getting him set up and recognised worldwide in the way designers should be.”

Her thoughts echoed the theme of 2020 stanza, Ize and 29 other young designers from the continent have been selected to showcase their creativity on the runway while competing for cash prizes.
For the organisers, it is a way of supporting the young designers financially and giving them the exposure they need to compete favourably on the international scene.

“The stuff I’ve seen so far, I’m really happy with. Although this has been a pandemic and a time of loss and sadness for many, it’s also been a time of people really using their minds and being so creative,” she said of the designers.
Other designers participating include Onalaja, Bibi, Pepper Row and Fruche.

Right from inception, ARISE Fashion Week has been keen on taking African fashion to the next level. It continues to push the envelope by introducing emerging designers on its platform while giving established brands the needed spotlight.
The 2020 virtual edition kicked off yesterday and will continue till December 12 when the overall winner will be crowned. Viewers can catch all the excitement on ARISE Play streaming service and ARISE NEWS Channel.

Content courtesy of This Day Live & Nairobi fashion hub 

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