Friday 25th of September 2026

Nairobi, Kenya

Tag: Fashion House

Africa Fashion Week London: Meet the Designers

Posted on by Ann Mumbi

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

Kenyan Fashion: The Independent Zine Honoring Kenyan Designers’ Pulsating Energy

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Genuineness does not always entail being responsible or eco-minded, Contrary to popular belief, WAUZINE004, a dynamic digital platform that champions the nexus of fashion, culture, and identity, is on a mission to disprove this.
The pulsating energy of African (note, Kenyan) designers has something significant about the current state of consumer taste, namely the influence of innovative offerings and off-beat aestheticism that brings forth proposals with an avant-garde, distinctive, and vibrant edge.
These designers delve deeply into the fascinating narratives of Kenya’s heritage while blending its relationship with the environments we live in.

The fourth issue of WAUZINE, with the Swahili title KUTOKA NAIROBI (from Nairobi), portrays Nairobi as a city known for its dynamic soul, seamlessly fusing with its rich traditional heritage, transforming into a creative canvas for a plethora of stories that arouse nostalgia and a genuine sense of cultural belonging.

Strong, imposing design: a stunning celebration of both concentration and toil that goes beyond a printed shirt or a suntanned top. It not only represents voices that are both inventive and socially conscious, echoing the pulse of a promising fashion system, but it also perfectly combines tradition, sustainability, and the feverish quest for artistic flare on a worldwide scale.

The fourth edition of the zine, Office describes the work of three Kenyan designers.

Theresia Kyalo
Theresia Kyalo began her career as a lawyer before dipping her toes into the development of distinctive contemporary jewelry. She drew significant influence from antique African jewelry while introducing her aestheticism to the modern day through simple, geometric shapes. Hardy brass is the designer’s material of choice since she wants to keep her line accessible.
A shining moment for the designer came in 2020 when Beyoncé included him on her list of Black creatives. He worked in both digital art and movies.

Yvette Anyango
Designer of Alegohono Yvette Anyango says, “Being featured on the 4th issue of Wauzine has been such an eye-opener for the brand.
It has sparked the urgently required awareness, development, and interest in what African fashion has to offer.
The designer’s collection features a variety of outfits that can be incorporated into a daily wardrobe: neutrals are dominant, and the brand’s guiding principles and ultimate embodiment are drawn from architectural design and include native art and photography.
These straightforward guidelines serve as a design manual for creating clothing with practicality.

Mvoo Wanje
“The history of Kenya is a rich tapestry of customs and civilizations, with an intriguing fusion of African, Western, and Arabic influences. Kenyan culture defies easy categorization; rather, when it comes to artistic endeavors, we have a powerful voice that merits consideration.
Designer Mvoo Wanje of Bonkerz NRB, who established the company in 2011, grew up in the 1990s with little to no media from the continent.
He freely acknowledges the mix of allusions that permeate his clothing “I can say hip hop as a sound and culture heavily influence how I see and create.”

Inspired by the beauty of color and the childlike things in life, the designer cares to share a perspective of Africa that isn’t about the struggle; rather, he’s keen to bring forth energy that translates into utility-heavy pieces that veer towards the functional and the practical with a zingy spirit.

Content courtesy of  Fashion Scouts, Office Magazine & NFH

African Fashion Retailer Produces A Unique Fashion Show At The Karoo Winter Wool Festival

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

When we talk about fashion shows, we frequently pay more attention to the designers than to the curators who make sure the environment is appropriate for the items being displayed.

A fashion show’s location and production style have a significant impact on how the clothing is highlighted.
The African clothing company Merchants on Long organized a fashion display featuring South African designers at the Karoo Winter Wool Festival.

Designers like Mmuso Maxwell and Lukhanyo Mdingi showcased a true celebration of South African wool and skill at the fashion show, which was centered on sustainability and durability and portrayed a cyclical, sustainable fashion industry where clothing is returned to the source.

The showcase also included designs by Viviers Studio, Luminous Ware, Emelia Dorcas, INKE Knitwear, Fields, Wrapt Knitwear, House of Lucent, and GugubyGugu.
The curator of the show and fashion buyer at Merchants on Long, Sumendra Chetty, was quite clear about the types of designers she sought for the exhibition.

“In choosing the designers, I was quite deliberate. The first requirement was to find designers who had a history of working with the local wool sector; names like Lukhanyo Mdingi and MmusoMaxwell instantly sprang to mind.

“Our definition of luxury is based on durability, recyclable materials, respect for the environment and animals, as well as adhering to fair-trade principles.
“Every designer was required to adhere to this ideal, ensuring that we advanced purposefully. This showcase was identical to what we were presenting in person or online, according to Chetty.

Chetty and her colleagues devised something unexpected instead of the typical runway that we are used to. In order to display the most recent collections from the designers, models strolled beneath the stunning Karoo sky.

The visual storytelling had to have the same effect as the Karoo scenery. I made the decision to create layers to resemble the Karoo sky pretty early on because the trend was already so daring and distinctive.

From the delicate whites and creams of the cirrus clouds through the soft beige and sand of golden hour to colorful blossoms, dusk to blue, and eventually culminating in a starry night.

Content courtesy of IOL & NFH

Kenyan Model Hassan Duba: Celebs Have Popularized Nigerian Fashion

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Hassan Duba, a fashion influencer and model from Kenya, has praised Nigerian celebrities for promoting the nation’s fashion industry.
According to her comments to Saturday Beats, “Nigerian celebrities, such as actors, artists, and influencers, have significantly contributed to the globalization of Nigerian fashion.
Their everyday attire as well as their red carpet outfits have inspired many. People have been inspired to be more daring and expressive with their personal styles by their daring fashion choices.

Duba commented that the vivid and varied selection of materials used in African fashion sets it apart from that of other regions.
The vibrant colors, detailed patterns, and distinctive textures of these fabrics, which range from classic prints like Ankara, Kente, and Kitenge to modern interpretations, set African fashion apart.

The cultural traditions and heritage of the continent are also honored by African fashion.
When asked what she thought fashion represented, she responded, “Fashion is a form of self-expression and creativity.
Through the selection of clothing, accessories, and personal grooming, it offers the chance to express one’s uniqueness, personality, and style preferences. It also enables one to express one’s identity, views, and feelings to the outside world.
As it allows us the opportunity to try out new styles, trends, and aesthetics, fashion may be liberating. One can express themselves honestly and with confidence thanks to it.

African celebrities from all over the continent have united in an amazing display of support for influencer Hassan Duba, who was born in Kenya.
The top influencer, who has been dubbed one of the most attractive women in the United Arab Emirates, has won over many hearts with her talent and personality.

Duba, who competed for Miss Universe UAE 2022, has established herself as a major player in the fashion and modeling worlds in addition to making a name for herself in the world of pageants.
Her popularity has quickly surpassed national boundaries after appearing at prominent events including Dubai Fashion Week, New York Fashion Week, and Fashion Week DXB.

Duba’s status as a rising star in the entertainment and fashion industries is further cemented by the outpouring of support from African superstars like Tems, Chanel Ayan, and Lisa Milan, founder of luxury design label Minaroe.
A number of well-known actors, musicians, and celebrities have praised and urged Hassan Dub on social media. Duba’s talent, style, and commitment have been praised by powerful figures in the African entertainment sector from Nigeria to South Africa.

Hassan Duba’s extraordinary journey and accomplishments serve as an example for aspiring influencers and models not only in East Africa but across the entire African continent.
She has gained the respect and affection of both her peers and admirers thanks to her perseverance and dedication to her craft.

The enormous amount of support Duba is getting is proof of the strength of African talent and innovation.
People like Hassan Dub act as ambassadors, highlighting the enormous potential that the entertainment and fashion sectors on the continent hold as the world continues to appreciate and recognize the diversity and depth of African culture.

Hassan Duba stands tall as a beacon of African brilliance in a time when discussions about representation and diversity are at the forefront.
Her transformation from an entertainer to a global influencer and fashion star is proof that young African people with ability, passion, and perseverance can achieve everything they set their minds to.

Content courtesy of Punch , Independent & NFH 

 

 

 

The Designers That Will Be Exhibiting at the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival Have Been Unveiled.

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

The Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival will take place as usual, following the success of the MTN Bushfire Festival in Eswatini.
The event is a two-day extravaganza of music, fashion, entertainment, and gastronomic treats.
The theme for this year’s event is “A Return to the African Future,” which will showcase Africa’s natural wealth, beauty, and elegance from the past to the present and into the future.

It’s a sensory trip, a reimagining of our legacy, and a peek at tomorrow’s design advances.
Luju 2023 will commemorate the transformational power of design and the use of fashion to impact future generations, in addition, to live performances by great African artists and a full gastronomic program.

This year’s theme, “African Fashion Folktales,” emphasizes craft mastery, with sustainable materials serving as means for reclaiming ancestral traditions. We reimagine our future by weaving these stories from our history together.
Mbali Temantimandze Kunene, Nomi, House Of Diva, and Ntrentre Couture Creations are among the designers whose designs will be showcased at the Luju Mastercard Runway Show.

“The Design and Craft creatives will be tasked with creating a capsule collection to be presented as part of the Standard Bank Luju Fashion Runway on the Mastercard Stage.”
“Working with local stylists, hair artists, and models, the collective will create a pop-up fashion performance that will be displayed on a regular basis in the Fashion Café Marketplace.”

“The Fashion Café Marketplace is a swarm of creative abundance, offering a wide range of African clothing, accessories, and skin and hair care products.

“Festival goers can find a wide variety of items inspired by African culture and heritage, including colorful apparel, distinctive jewelry, and healthy skincare products.

This market has something for everyone, whether festival-goers want to include natural, plant-based substances into their skincare routine or want to add some bold statement pieces to their outfit.

According to the event’s organizers, festival attendees may shop with assurance knowing that their purchases support small, independent enterprises and showcase the exquisite workmanship of Africa.

Designers will participate in the first market showcase following the fashion show to advertise their off-the-runway collection.
They will carry out this action as part of the Artisanal Incubator Programme for 10 MSMEs, which is sponsored by the European Union and run in collaboration with the International Trade Centre (ITC) Alliance for Action Programme.

On August 4 and 5, the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival will be held at Malandela’s Farm’s House on Fire. There will be numerous South African musicians performing, including Big Zulu, Lloyiso, Sun-El Musician, Zo Modiga, and more.

About The Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival
A family-friendly feast of culinary exploits, high-end fashion, premium wine, and whiskey showcases fine music and wholesome entertainment.

Through culinary showcases by celebrity chefs, and fabulous fashion designs inspired by the Luju ethos “A Return to the African Future”, the festival celebrates the sophistication and elegance of African vintage style, creative design, and delicacies. Come and Eat, Sway, Love, and rejoice in our heritage and culture, in all its afro-futuristic boldness.

The Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival is proudly brought to you by House On Fire, with generous support from Standard Bank Eswatini.

Content courtesy of IOL , The Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival & NFH

 

 

The 2023 Schedule for Lagos Fashion Week is Announced

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Lagos will once again be at the forefront of connecting with the global fashion community and honoring the craftsmanship of Africa and its diaspora during the 12th iteration of Lagos Fashion Week, which is scheduled to take place from October 26 to 29 of 2023.

Within Africa’s constantly changing fashion scene, Lagos Fashion Week occupies a key role. It continues to guide the continent’s fashion industry toward a conscious future that cuts across boundaries, strengthens communities, and has a significant socioeconomic impact.

Lagos Fashion Week is devoted to presenting the rich creativity and artistry that have come to define African fashion, building on its journey of more than ten years. As proven by various ground-breaking partnerships formed over the years, collaboration is at the heart of its vision for the future of fashion, nurturing alliances that open up novel avenues and produce one-of-a-kind chances.

The event encourages co-creation, welcomes varied talent, and deftly combines innovation and tradition to create designs that honor cultural legacy while embracing the digital world. Lagos Fashion Week also champions community strength through fostering talent, elevating voices, and igniting change in the fashion industry.

In the #LagosFW Tents and other locations throughout the vivacious city of Lagos, Lagos Fashion Week 2023 will return with Runway Shows and Presentations showcasing new season collections from designers.
The Nigerian and Pan-African industries, as well as other sectors, will be the focus of the Fashion Business Series. With seminars and master lectures, the Visual Makers Fellowship was established to assist aspiring filmmakers and photographers.
Created with the goal of fostering fresh dialogue and intellectual interaction regarding sustainability in African design, Swap Shop After parties are a chance to explore Lagos’ nightlife and network with some of Africa’s best creatives in a laid-back setting.
XRETAIL is a tailored shopping experience across key cities in Africa. LagosFW Showrooms provide you access to some of your favorite fashion companies.

Lagos Fashion Week offers Green Access in keeping with its commitment to facilitating the growth of the regional manufacturing economy, fostering impactful conversations, and cultivating young talent. Until August 23, 2023, this yearly talent discovery platform will accept applications from designers in Nigeria.
This season’s subject is “Standing The Test of Time,” and the Green Access program seeks to identify five young Nigerian designers who place a strong emphasis on sustainability and the creative use of waste materials.

A fashion accelerator program called Green Access encourages the recommitment of resource efficiency, biodegradability, longevity, and recyclability as guiding principles for fashion design and production.

Green Access has been highlighting fashion businesses that are changing their business models and implementing measures to support environmentally, socially, and ethically responsible production processes since its start in 2018.

The OR Foundation awarded Themba Shezi (Heru Shezi, South Africa) and Lu Adesola (Lul’la House, Nigeria) financial support in the amount of $10,000 USD following the successful completion of the Green Access 2022 program. The funding was given out to help the recipients’ respective brands grow and advance.

They were chosen for the funding based on their deep awareness of and dedication to researching the idea of circular fashion, as well as the incorporation of pre-existing materials into their design processes, such as textiles, clothing, or waste from other industries.
The OR Foundation, a 501(C)(3) public charity located in the USA, has been operating in Ghana since 2009.

Its primary goal is to find and support alternatives to the dominant fashion model. The foundation’s activities center on the confluence of environmental justice, educational advancement, and fashion design.
The OR Foundation perfectly complements the aims and ideals of Lagos Fashion Week’s Green Access program by promoting ecological prosperity and developing a deeper relationship with fashion that goes beyond mere consumerism.

The OR Foundation and Lagos Fashion Week agree that sustainable fashion has the power to spark good change and move the industry toward a future that is more responsible and mindful.
Emerging designers have the ability to have a big effect and support a more circular and sustainable fashion industry thanks to the Green Access platform.

#LagosFW Important Dates:

  1. Green Access Applications Open: 25th July – 23rd August 2023 | Apply HERE
  2. Runway Shows: 26th – 29th October 2023

For more information regarding Lagos Fashion Week 2023, kindly visit lagosfashionweek.ng or follow their Instagram page @lagosfashionweekofficial.

Content courtesy Lagos Fashion Week, Culture Custodian & NFH

 

Through Gaff, We Celebrate the Innovation and Beauty of African Fashion and Promote Our Designers Around the World – Desiring a Sure Boss, Olapeju Naomi

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

An exceptional African amazon of beauty, glitz, and style is Naomi Olapeju Sigismund. She is an elegant, seductive, and chic fashionista. Naomi serves as the project director for African Canada Investment and the convener for the Hope For Sure Foundation. She traveled to Nigeria to conduct the Glam African Fashion Festival at Victoria Island in Lagos’ famous Oriental Hotel and Suits.

Naomi Olapeju expressed her gratitude to the attendees and visitors at GAFF 2023 during a gathering that included several super fashion stars, business leaders, industry captains, and champions of traditional and cultural values.

She gushed over the successes of the imaginative event, stating that the event’s main goal is to honor the inventiveness, beauty, and vivacious spirit of African design. “It is an honor and a privilege for me to stand before you as we begin this exciting journey together,” she said. A strong statement of identity, culture, and art, fashion has always been.
It cuts across barriers, brings people together, and shares tales that are firmly established in our culture. The Glam African Fashion Festival honors the diversity and wealth of African fashion by exhibiting the extraordinary abilities and imagination of designers from all over the continent.

The mother of all African fashion shows’ attracted guests who made time in their busy schedules to attend, and were treated to a stunning exhibition of creativity, innovation, and enthusiasm.
The runway came alive with a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and patterns that capture the soul of Africa, from spectacular traditional outfits to cutting-edge contemporary creations.
The organizers took practical measures to make sure that GAFF 2023 is about more than just fashion.

They made certain that the focus is on empowerment. Olapeju stated, “It’s about showcasing the unrealized potential inside our communities and giving up-and-coming designers a stage on which to shine.
It focuses on opening doors, encouraging entrepreneurship, and changing lives. We can inspire and empower people via fashion, fostering economic development and cross-cultural interaction.

The proud African woman continued by expressing her true belief that by working together, we can shatter barriers, confront preconceptions, and transform the world of fashion. She is deeply committed to promoting the beauty and originality of her continent.

The Glam African Fashion Festival is a movement, a driver of advancement and change, not merely a one-time occasion.

Without a doubt, Naomi Olapeju, who is Hope For Sure’s capable mentor, has created channels through which members of the African fashion industry may collaborate with the foundation to help the brilliant designers on the continent and be a part of this amazing journey.

To celebrate the wonder of African fashion, the inventiveness that results from our different cultures, and the unifying power of creativity, she explained that all hands must be on deck.

As she concluded her remarks for the occasion, Naomi Olapeju said that as the models creatively and aesthetically adorned the catwalk that evening, everyone should congratulate them on their talent and embrace the idea of a future in which African design reclaims its rightful place on the global arena.

Let’s let the brilliance that exists within our borders inspire, enthrall, and move us.
Olapeju praised everyone who attended, supported African fashion, and believed in the aspirations of the continent’s creators.

It was an event, in her opinion, that began a revolution in the fashion business and highlighted the genius of African inventiveness.
Glamour African culture stands for culture, peace, and heritage.
Everybody’s life has been greatly impacted by fashion; among other things, it has helped people overcome obstacles and change their moods.

I kindly ask that we always make an effort to express love to mental health sufferers as they need it.
The earnings from the Glam African Festival benefit those who have experienced mental illness.
“Let’s be constructive with criticism and cast out all negativity to prevent inciting depression,” Olapeju argued.

The most crucial point is that fashion is an effective tool for tackling mental health difficulties.
A person’s uniqueness can be expressed through their attire. In the same vein, we honor our award recipients for their outstanding contributions to humanity and unwavering commitment to improving our communities.

I can confirm that clothes can genuinely affect how we think as the convener of the Hope for Sure Foundation.

Thank you, and have a wonderful day ahead of you all!
We’re glad you’re here for Glam African Fashion Festival 2023.

Content Courtesy Of  Glam African Fashion Festival & NFH

 

 

‘We Are African’ is Celebrated During Ebubeleni Fashion Week.

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

This year’s Ebubeleni Fashion Week, it’s all about the glitz and glamour while highlighting why designers are happy to be African.

While glamorizing this year’s Women’s Month celebrations, the second annual Ebubeleni Fashion Week also contributes to the preparations for the 12th annual Ebubeleni Festival in 2023.
On Saturday, August 12, the fashion show will take place at the Boardwalk International Convention Center.

A non-profit organization called Ebubeleni Festival Projects, which was founded in 2019 with the express purpose of concentrating on the growth of the arts, culture, and fashion sectors in Nelson Mandela Bay and the larger Eastern Cape, is responsible for the program.

In order to promote the creative diversity of Nelson Mandela Bay, project manager Busisiwe Nxele said, “We aim to increase activity in the regional fashion sector; create retail demand by giving emerging designers a chance to be exposed to potential national buyers and media; create a fashion buzz in the region, sparking the interest of outside guests to visit the city, and rank it on the World Fashion Capital list.”

“There are many brilliant young fashion designers in the Eastern Cape, especially those who graduate from college but are dissatisfied by the lack of opportunities to sell their goods. As a result, they leave the Bay to pursue professions in larger towns like Joburg and Cape Town.

“We are happy that several of the designers that took part in our most recent fashion show were acknowledged. Some are creating clothing for the stars of the telenovela Gqeberha the Empire.
“At our first fashion show, we were able to generate more than 80 jobs, which the industry gladly benefited from, especially given that it occurred during the challenging years of COVID-19.”

The designers were approached with a request for their most current work, along with their bios and an explanation of what motivates their designs.

The opportunity to develop a new collection and present it on the runway of the fashion show will be granted to the ten chosen local designers.

A group of business leaders will judge these designers for a cash award.
The entire line will be eligible for the first prize, while the “Royalty We Are Africa” show-stopping outfit will be awarded the second prize.

The 10 selected designers to showcase their works are Quza Designs by Ayanda Quza, Azato Couture by Gladys Azato, Thee King’s Inc by Thandile Ndamase, Birth Mark by Asithandile Zixesha, Mismash Designs by Nomahlubi Mashiya, Kat Lebea Designs by Katleho Lebea, Handmade by Tazleigh Swartz, Thembani Selani, Christopher Tom, Alkebulan by Sihle Champion.

Five fashion design students from Nelson Mandela University (NMU) and two guest designers, including House of Chilli by Namhla Fihla and Imprint SA by Mzukisi Mbane, will also present their work.

On July 15, a casting call for male and female models took place at the Tramways building. A total of 171 models attended, and 24 multicultural young models were chosen.

The Fashion Week program will include designers’ workshops where local designers who didn’t make it will be worked on by one of the top local designers, one national designer, a national retail buyer, and an NMU fashion design lecturer as part of the effort to encourage local designers.

Through their clothing, the designers and performers will convey a narrative.
Participants are urged to stay on theme and display how they interpret “Royalty  We are African”.
Ami Faku and Zuko SA, two multi-award-winning artists, will perform.

Doors for the Red Carpet open at 5 p.m., and the program begins at 6 p.m.
Tickets are R500 each and are available nationally via Webtickets, Pick n Pay, and Boxer stores.

Content  courtesy of HeraLd Live & NFH

 

After Visiting the China-africa Trade Fair, a Zambian Fashion Designer Develops Great Ideas.

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

LUSAKA (Xinhua), July 22, 2023 – Young fashion designer from Zambia claims that by taking part in the China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo, he has gained an appreciation for and understanding of the Chinese business model as well as market penetration strategies.

The third China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo was held in the central Chinese city of Changsha from June 29 to July 2, and Kabaso Nkandu, creative director and head designer at Nkanda Yatu, a Zambian fashion brand, said his participation there gave him the chance to network with significant figures in the apparel industry in addition to selling his brand to the Chinese market.

The 34-year-old Nkandu attended the expo on behalf of the China-Kenya marketing company Development Reimagined, which is dedicated to introducing African goods to the Chinese market.
Sessions were held by the agency that covered marketing, finding business partners, and comprehending the Chinese market and business concepts.

And that’s crucial because it allows us to see that there are other markets than just the one in Zambia.
It expands our horizons and allows us to access new markets, such as the excellent Chinese market, he stated in an interview.

Nkandu, who specializes in custom suits for men and women as well as wedding attire, claimed that he met with fabric manufacturers during the expo.
This is significant because textiles have been one of the biggest obstacles to the growth of the garment industry in Zambia because the majority of textiles must be imported.

Because of the passion displayed during the expo, he expressed optimism that his brand will reach the Chinese market. “Watching Chinese people appreciate things from Africa was the main highlight of our trip.
I could tell from the level of curiosity that the Chinese market would take our brand in.

The fashion designer has subsequently urged Zambian enterprises to show a strong interest in attending events like the China-Africa trade exhibition, which are very helpful in presenting Zambian products to foreign markets.

Nkandu, who launched his company in 2017, was concerned that the garment industry has not gotten sufficient assistance despite its potential to support the economic growth of Zambia and many other African nations.

According to Nkandu, the garment industry’s small and medium-sized businesses do not have easy access to affordable financing that may help them increase their production.

According to him, there are numerous trends occurring in the garment business in terms of machinery, technology, and many other things. “We want the government’s support; we want the private sector’s support for us to be able to be competitive in the global market,” he stated.
Nkandu, who now employs 15 people, claimed to have discovered prospective investors but is having trouble locating collateral for the banks.

His company’s production would increase as a result of the investment, he continued, and 255 additional workers will be employed as a result.

“I’m just getting started. I can’t offer them any collateral so they can give me the bank guarantee. I’m appealing to the government and the business sector to give the clothing industry the priority and care it needs,” he continued.

Nkandu stated that his long-term goal is to become one of the best designers in the entire globe, not just in Africa.

He created history in September 2022 when he became the first designer from Zambia to participate in Milan Fashion Week in Italy.
This is why he chose the name Nkanda Yatu for his company, which is taken from a local language and means “our skin.”

He explained that the moniker is intended to inspire people to value and care for local prints in the same manner that they do their skin.

Content courtesy of CN & NFH

 

African Designers and Brands To Know About Now

Posted on by Fashion Tribe Influencer

When it comes to fashion, Africa is a continent with no shortage of ability.
While individuals like Virgil Abloh stand out as some of the most significant designers of our generation, the industry is home to a large number of creative people. Designers from throughout the continent are coming up with new textiles, patterns, and textures to create stunning clothing for consumers around the world. The entire globe is enthralled watching.

Others in South Africa are embracing natural components to redesign everyday clothing, while many Ghanaian designers are eschewing traditional wax cloth and kente clothes.

Additionally, there has been a surge of environmentally conscious designers that reuse deadstock materials to create brand-new products. Former Balenciaga employee Bobby Kolade founded Return to Sender in 2022 with the goal of bringing Uganda’s textile sector back to its pre-mid 1970s apex, when more cotton was processed than exported.

Designers from the United States, including Anifa Mvuemba of Hanifa, are doing important fashion exhibits in unusual locations like Washington, DC. “I’m purposeful. She said to Teen Vogue in 2021, “I like doing things my way and I dislike conforming, being put in a box.
“I honestly find it unsettling. I stayed loyal to myself and pushed myself with this performance in D.C. The result was astounding.

African fashion designers are emerging both on the continent and in the diaspora.
Togo-born Jacques Agbobly received a 2019 CFDA Scholarship and attended Parsons. Born in Austria of Nigerian parents, Kenneth Ize is a finalist for the 2019 LVMH Prize.
And Maram Aboul Enein, who later went on to work for Pierre Balmain, Zac Posen, and Oscar De La Renta, fled Egypt for Canada as a young girl.

Algeria
Ilyes Ouali won “Fashion Star Arabia” in 2019 and takes heavy inspiration from the glitz and glamour of the ’70s in his recent work.

Angola
Fashion designer and criminologist Nadir Tati uses fashion as a means of celebrating Angolan womanhood and promoting a culture of peace.

Benin
With his brand Allëdjo, Kassim Lassissi aims to channel all that he has encountered while traveling across the world, into sustainable fashion and style.

Botswana
From shining gold bodycon dresses to floor-length bridal gowns, DihDah offers a range of striking pieces.

Burkina Faso
Pathé’O has designed head-turning garments since the ’70s, dressing African leaders such as Nelson Mandela.

Burundi
Content creator, stylist, and entrepreneur Juan Nsabiye crafts bespoke suits, with a focus on elegance for all genders.

Cabo Verde
Stylist-turned-designer Marvin Lima uses his brand Virtuoso to recognize African videographers, photographers, makeup artists, and models.

Cameroon
With a background in environmental engineering, Liz Ngwane creates both upcycled and one-of-a-kind garments under her slow-fashion brand Margo’s Mode.

Central African Republic
O’poma Designs founder Olga Nganzi Samba-Pamza incorporates African kitenge fabrics into her clothes, which often teem with colorful hues.

Chad
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jonas Berassengar sewed masks for members of his community, to extend the accessibility of protective measures.

Comoros
Sakina M’sa fuses her interests in contemporary art, dance, and philosophy into her art direction and fashion design work.

Congo
“For women without limits” is Hanifa’s motto, which founder Anifa Mvuemba furthers through increased access to shows as well as inclusive sizing and model casting.

Cote d’Ivoire
Loza Maléombho fuses contemporary and traditional silhouettes through footwear, accessories, and made-to-order garments with gold accents.

DRC
Designer and creative director behind Moulandzaou, Aton Tsiba creates genderless clothes with loose form and fluorescent color palettes.

Djibouti
Yanie Ayoun draws inspiration from her mother and designs for the next generation of Djiboutian youth.

Egypt
Maram Aboul Enein reflects on her own spiritual journey with the brand MARAM and plays with texture through sequins, ruffles, and electric colorways.

Equatorial Guinea
Visionary Society founder Diosdado Sima draws from his early interests in typography and streetwear to create a brand centered on community.

Eritrea
Former costume designer and stylist Selam Fessahaye launched her brand in 2018 and features gilded embroidery and beading in recent work.

Eswatini
For her label Mamakatessa, Temahlubi Dlamin uses silks and tulles of every shade to make gowns for a plethora of occasions.

Ethiopia
Maisha Marshall-Ende’s label Lehwatch explores cultural exchange, as its name translates to, and uses Ethiopian fabrics to create garments inspired by her move to Canada.

Gabon
Teddy Ondo Ella’s label draws inspiration from Gabonese culture and dress, utilizing traditional pieces such as sarong wraps paired with bold patterns.

Gambia
Masaneh Badjie’s dresses are rich with detail, including corset-style boning, appliqué, and crystal beading.

Ghana
Free the Youth began in 2013 by Jonathan Coffie, Winfred Mensah, Richard Ormano, and Kelly Foli; it has grown beyond its initial purpose of documenting Ghanaian streetwear and now encapsulates the brand and organization.

Guinea
Mariama Camara is a designer and humanitarian, whose interest in handmade textiles began at a young age when she watched her family design and dye prints.

Guinea-Bissau
Armando Cabral began working in the fashion industry as a model and shifted to design in 2009 as his continued interests in footwear and luxury clothing grew.

Kenya
Akiba Studios fuses functionality and playfulness through whimsical motifs and pieces with a street-style twist.

Lesotho
Creative director and fashion designer Thabo Makhetha offers luxury coats, jackets, and capes inspired by Basotho blankets.

Liberia
Archel Bernard began her sewing factory with an all-woman staff in 2016, to help those impacted by the Ebola epidemic; after the factory’s success, she opened her ethical fashion store, Bombchel, four years later in Atlanta.

Libya
Through minimalistic and geometric pieces, designer Ibrahim Shebani allows Born in Exile’s ensembles to speak for themselves.

Madagascar
After studying fashion in Paris, Eric Raisina debuted his work in the mid-2000s, which focuses on tactility and color.

Malawi
Award-winning entrepreneur Lilly Alfonso’s penchant for fashion design traces itself back to her youth when she would upcycle and reinvent her mother’s old clothing.

Mali
Lamine Kouyaté’s Xuly. Bët repurposes deadstock fabrics in his garments, a practice pulled from his mother and grandmother who would reshape old clothes for him and his siblings as children.

Mauritania
Kadiata Diallo of Niuku fuses form and function with hand-painted dresses and suits.

Mauritius
Fabien Fauzou is a designer and seamstress who specializes in geometric and vibrant dresses.

Morocco
Doum offers a range of bags, from totes to cross bodies, with summery, woven elements.

Mozambique
From a tracksuit touting the word “fearless” to sleek little black dresses, Taibo Bacar offers customers a range of garments and accessories.

Namibia
Melisa Poulton, founder of House of Poulton, describes her label as powerful, dramatic, and bold, and she aims to bring strength to her wearers.

Niger
Referred to as the “magician of the desert,” Alphadi debuted his label in the mid-1980s and has crafted highly-detailed bustiers, maxi skirts, and floor-length dresses since.

Nigeria
Kenneth Ize’s unisex work features technicolor hues and traditional Aso-Oke fabrics on oversized tunics, waistcoats, and dresses.

Rwanda
The Mysteries plays with extreme silhouettes and textiles in its unconventional sets and individual pieces.

Sao Tome and Principe
D&D Clothing offers both ready-to-wear and custom ensembles, donning patterns that range from animal print to neon patchwork.

Senegal
Contemporary lifestyle brand Diarrablu innovates tradition through its inclusive clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and artwork.

Seychelles
Johanna Didon launched her brand Katiti in 2017, which focuses on classic styles with edgy twists, although she had been sewing clothes since she was 12.

Sierra Leone
Sai Sankoh looks to retro and vintage clothing for inspiration as well as pieces in her own wardrobe; her work brings luxury to anyone and everyone.

Somalia
Through a combined interest in jewelry and tailoring, Omar Munie began his award-winning work as a bag designer in the early 2010s.

South Africa
Swim, surf, and beachwear brand Bantu Wax is making waves with its graphics-driven apparel.

Sudan
Yousra Elsadig aims to dismantle stereotypes and sustainability through her work with the brand Boutique de Nana.

South Sudan
Activist, doctor, and designer multi-hyphenate Mayada Adil use clothes to empower women refugees and honor diplomacy.

Tanzania
Through her brand Naledi, designer Kemi Kalikawe celebrates spunk and youthfulness and advocates for women’s equality at the intersections of fashion and technology.

Togo
Textile artist and designer Jacques Agbobly launched their made-to-order knitwear label, Black Boy Knits, inspired by the joy they saw as a child from customers of tailors and seamstresses in Togo.

Tunisia
Appearing on Project Runway Middle East, Malek Gheni juxtaposes maximalist bling with simple and geometric pieces.

Uganda
Bobby Kolade’s brand Buzigahill aims to combat Uganda’s secondhand clothing crisis, by making efforts to return its textile industry to the success it faced in the late twentieth century.

Zambia
As an entrepreneur and founder of Debbie Chu, Deborah Chuma sees her label as a community, rather than a fashion design brand.

Zimbabwe
Vanhu Vamwe has created a community of macramé weavers and celebrates handmade objects and craftsmanship.

 

Content courtesy of Teen Vogue & NFH

 

 

South African Fashion Designers Revive the Detritus of Western Fashion.

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Khumo Morojele and Klein Muis, two aspiring fashion designers from South Africa, spend hours searching a secondhand street market in Johannesburg for clothing.
The pair then upcycles what they discover into apparel or accessories that, in their opinion, show African style in a distinctive way.

Unlike recycling, which typically entails disassembling the original material and turning it into something else, upcycling refers to reusing an object in a novel way without compromising the material it was built of.

The two are currently working on a project called “Dunusa: Life of a Garment,” in which they source second-hand clothing that is frequently shipped from European nations to Africa and then disassembled and reconstructed into avant-garde and abstract apparel.

On July 14–16, the collection will be on display at the “Forecast Forum,” an international arts festival in Berlin where budding artists can find mentorship.

According to the 22-year-old Mr. Muis, “The question that we are trying to answer with the project is really the disparity between the north and the south… how certain parts of Africa become dumping grounds for European countries.”

The two work together as well as with other African artists. They are collaborating with a shoemaker in Ghana on a project to transform used soccer boots into sandals that honor both African and European passion for the game.

Because we value and truly connect with the possessions we own, it is consistently emphasized in our culture that we don’t squander anything.

According to Mr. Morojele, a 20-year-old, ” We kind of want to represent it and transcend that in our clothing.

Content courtesy of  Business World & NFH

 

African Textiles and Cutting-edge Technology Revolutionize the Fashion Industry, Thanks to a Nigerian Consultant

Posted on by Oscar Alochi

Felix Adu, a Nigerian-born fashion consultant working in Sweden, is creating waves by combining African materials into mainstream fashion, a revolutionary move that has shocked the fashion world.

Not content with that, Adu is also revolutionizing the fashion sector by fusing AI, NFTs, and cryptocurrency tokens into his line of clothing.
Adu is revolutionizing the world of fashion with his creative methods and dedication to exhibiting the splendor of African culture.
Adu’s concept is the result of his abiding love for his Nigerian roots and his ambition to make African textiles more prominent in the world of fashion.

Adu seeks to overthrow the fashion industry’s predominance of Western aesthetics by recognizing the wide range and exceptional craftsmanship found in African materials.
Adu honors the rich diversity and cultural legacy of Africa by combining traditional African textiles into his creations, which also promotes awareness of underappreciated artistic genres.

The way that Adu has used artificial intelligence (AI) in his fashion line is one of the main factors contributing to his success.
Adu improves his design process by utilizing AI technologies, making it possible to produce fashion items more quickly and accurately.

Adu can push the envelope and explore with daring patterns, colors, and styles because of the combination of artificial intelligence and artistic vision.

African textiles and artificial intelligence work together to produce a distinctive blend that appeals to fashion fans around.

The innovative mindset of Adu goes beyond only design. He enters the world of digital art by using crypto tokens and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) to give his fashion business a new level of worth.
Adu gives collectors the chance to own unique digital copies of his creations by minting NFTs of his limited-edition clothing.

Furthermore, Adu has embraced the possibilities of cryptocurrencies and crypto tokens, allowing his consumers to use digital currencies to make transactions and upending established payment systems.
African textiles and the thriving fashion business on the continent are now receiving much-needed attention thanks to Felix Adu’s trailblazing initiatives, which have won him international renown.

Adu is challenging perceptions and changing international standards of beauty by infusing African aesthetics into the mainstream fashion narrative. His brand is at the vanguard of technological development in the fashion business thanks to his inventive use of AI, NFTs, and crypto tokens.
Along with profoundly altering Felix Adu’s personal life, his move from Nigeria to Sweden had a significant effect on the fashion industry.

He stands out as a true innovator in the business thanks to his dedication to exhibiting the exquisiteness of African textiles and his incorporation of AI, NFTs, and crypto tokens.

As Adu continues to revolutionize fashion, his work inspires young fashion designers throughout the world by demonstrating that creativity, cultural celebration, and cutting-edge technology can all coexist on the catwalk.

Content courtesy of Van Guard & NFH

 

 

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