Africa Fashion Week London has been a pioneer in putting African fashion on the map here in the UK. The renowned annual fashion event, which showcases the work of exclusive designers, is preparing for its 15th event.
Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) was founded by Queen Ronke Ademiluyi-Ogunwusi and is Europe’s largest annual African fashion event.
Anna Marie Benedict, a 50-year-old PR Director at Africa Fashion Week London, said: “Africa Fashion Week London was thought of to really highlight and showcase African designers in the diaspora and from the African continent.
“Our founder, Queen Ronke, started the platform, and she has really championed the role of women in heritage and indigenous paths. She started a textile hub in Nigeria, and she works with women and young people.”
Like no other, AFWL has cemented their place in the fashion game by platforming often overlooked cultural designers in the fashion scene.
People across the UK are looking forward to this season of Africa Fashion Week, which will be held in just a few months between the 9th and 10th of August.
Across the past 15 years, they have exhibited the work of around 3000 creatives, showcasing their work rooted in diverse cultural heritages.
“What we hoped to achieve is just amplifying the message that western fashion is not the only fashion, there’s so much creativity coming out of the African continent that we should really just not be ignoring.”
This year’s show promises to be ‘bigger and better than ever’ with several cultural activities besides the show to indulge in.
“It’s an incredible platform, you come to Africa Fashion Week and you’re really immersed in the culture and the joyfulness and the colour,” says Anna.
Not only have they platformed established designers, but they have also curated spaces for connection between creators and fashion lovers . The intricately designed pieces reflect the richness and craftsmanship of African designers.
Exquisite designers include influential female figures like Mary Martin London, Celina Rob and Makenzy Creations.
African fashion, from Southern Africa to the Western regions, is distinct in its patterns, bold colour schemes and textiles.
Their work is notable due to the fact that they hold space for people in the UK to experience a very different, vibrant example of fashion, which doesn’t conform to the stereotypical ideals of fashion.
Anna says: “I hope and believe that we have a really positive impact on our designers and on our young people, people who have thought about a career in fashion or been inspired to pick up a sewing machine.”
Not only is Africa Fashion Week London sparking conversations about cross-cultural fashion, but they are redefining the boundaries of high-class ideas about what fashion is.
The show includes catwalk showcases, including globally renowned African designers, sustainable fashion showcases, a textile festival and brand pop-ups.
The Adire textile Festival, as part of the event, will feature distinct designs from Adire Oodua Textile Hub. Visit Africa Fashion Week London to find out more about the beauty of the organisation and tickets to the show.
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