Why African Fashion is the Trend of the Decade: Pt. II
African Fashion International recently celebrated a milestone 15 years in the industry at their fashion week event in Johannesburg, South Africa. Here are the highlights of day 2.
My live report from AFI’s 2022 Fashion Week event continues! In the last Talk, we discussed the day 1 highlights of the show. If you missed it, you can catch up here.
Day 1 brought us exceptionally trendy brands who took control of the runway with standout styles that showed the range of designers on the African continent. To no surprise, day 2 was nothing short of captivating. Hang tight as we journey into the show.
A Look Into Day Two
“How could day 2 possibly top the exciting brands of day 1?” I wondered with a secret anticipatory thrill as I finished my all-day prepping to watch the show.
Safe to say I was not disappointed.
The array of designers, with their broad yet aesthetically-distinct collections, exceeded my every expectation. It was a juxtaposition of traditional African looks against the contemporary. They did a marvelous job showcasing their creations, from their handpicked models to the carefully curated music and background visuals accompanying each show. I was left wanting more!
Womenswear dominated day 2. Aesthetics ran from high-fashion glitzy glam styles to hippy/boho styles. Among the brands that graced the runway were Imprint Za, Eric Raisina, Sisters of Afrika, Alia Bare, Indoni Fashion House, Masa Mara, and Gavin Rajah.
Opening up the show was Imprint Za by South Africa’s Mzukisi Mbane. Three words came to mind while watching … wow, wowww, and WAOW. I loved everything about it— from the designer’s signature colorful & lively printed textiles to create each flowy outfit, to the models who strutted down Diamond Walk bringing these creations to life. It felt like being inside a moving, colorful, breathtaking tunnel of lights.
Accessories were key here. Each model’s look was elevated by a mix of oversized printed & non-printed hats, statement earrings, retro sunglasses in lime green & fiery rose pink, and oversized handbags. An electrifying way to kick off the night!
Next, we have Eric Raisina “Haute texture”. His collection was a showcase of simple silhouettes—with a twist. Madagascar-born and Paris haute couture educated, one can really see the influence of African & European aesthetics throughout Eric Raisina’s collection.
His training in the Paris ateliers of Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Lacroix was clear by how much attention to detail he paid to each piece… from the textile weaving to the cuts. His Madagascan origin was truly reflected through the array of flamboyant colors in the garments and the craftsmanship of the clothing. The European influences were apparent through the simple & sophisticated silhouettes, designed to the most.
Colorful, chic, and creative were the three words that summed up this show.
Sisters of Afrika started their show by displaying a no-frills behind-the-scenes video on the making of their signature tie-dye look, in Senegal, West Africa. This brand creates international opportunities for local artisans and follows a sustainable approach to garment making.
Their versatile collection was soft and regal, with two-piece skirt sets, separates, and flowy dresses in calming & well-blended lemon yellows, forest greens, and rose reds as the main colors. Accessorized with unique head wraps & sunglasses, this collection was classy, sophisticated, AND comfortable. Perfect for a spring/summer wedding!
Alia Bare gracefully took over the runway with a black, white, and hot pink collection full of elegance. Another womenswear favorite, this brand focused on the art of layering solid & patterned textures. The collection had a sultry yet classy feel, emanating from the contrasting see-through fabrics against the opaque fabrics, with a glittery sheen tying them together. Perfect for any fashion diva who wishes to stand out on a night out.
Indoni Fashion House’s collection was a celebration of the woman’s body, with designs ranging from short to long, full and waist-clenching. Purple (my favorite color) and teal were the dominant colors. I was thrilled by the tiered layering of the skirts and dresses, which really gave them a robust look.
The looks were accessorized with distinctive neck & headpieces made of recycled items such as soda can tops and spiral metallic hoops. Statement pieces for sure!
For a debut show at AFI fashion week, this Durban-based brand’s presentation was quite impressive.
Hang tight, the show is not over yet!
Masa Mara models sauntered confidently onto the runway, barefoot, sporting traditional African looks that showed the cultural diversity and beauty of the continent. The resort-style collection was another vibrant one, incorporating various prints and symbols that came together harmoniously. To complement the prints, the male models’ bodies were artistically designed with paint, a very interesting concept.
In our age of minimalism, clashes of color like these cleverly showcase how distinct colors & patterns can live together in harmony.
This collection would definitely turn heads on a vacation if you love to be the center of attention!
Closing out the show was Gavin Rajah’s couture collection … and what a befitting end! His collection included intricately printed retro jackets, flowy hot pink & silver dresses & voluminous evening gowns, shimmering in orange, black, and purple — with feathers. Accentuating the outfits was heavy full face makeup. What masterful craftsmanship of sizzle and sparkle!
African Fashion International’s 2022 fashion week event kept me on the edge of my seat throughout with its incredible display of the tremendous and diverse talent birthed on the African continent. The designers delivered outstanding work that was bold, eclectic, & unique. African fashion trends such as headwraps, bold prints, and other unique African accessories continue to grow on the global fashion stage.
Most see Africa as a continent of consumers and a source where resources can be extracted. However, the continent is also full of amazing producers who should be proud of their designs & creations. This event was just another reminder that African fashion is constantly evolving and pushing the frontiers of fashion, with designers who remain true to their heritage.
What are some African fashion trends that you think will undoubtedly rule 2023?
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