Fashion Unites Africa at AFI Fashion Week
Addressing violence against women, paying tribute to loved ones passed and spreading some much-needed afrophilia are some of the beautiful messages that the warm heart of fashion radiated in African Fashion International’s (AFI) Johannesburg Fashion Week.
AFI hosted their Johannesburg Fashion Week at the Sandton Convention Center from 10- 12 October 2019. The organisers of some of the continent’s most respected series of fashion weeks opted for the timeous unifying theme: “African Fashion Unites”. The slogan was a stylish, reconciliatory call to help heal the wounds of recent conflicts and to promote cohesion in how Africa collectively faces the future.
Runways were coloured by 30 top African designers from all regions of the continent. With some heading established design houses and others being more recent entrants to the industry.
Enthusiastic designers and stars from around the continent participated in the “African Fashion Unites” showcase in Johannesburg, South Africa
South African Veteran Designers
Co-Chair of Africa Fashion Unites, Gavin Rajah expressed that the theme is all about raising awareness of the plight of many Africans, as well as about using fashion as a language to bring a renewed consciousness and social cohesion. His collection tackled the pressing social issues of violence and crimes against women with signature elegance. Rajah’s work was designed to empower women symbolically, as well as behind the scenes. In terms of symbolism, his collection “Where have all the flowers gone?” was the product of a partnership with floral couturier, The Blom Boy. Gowns were draped with voluptuous veils of black net and were peppered with flowers to represent how fragile life can be. As well as to reflect the reality of how many women feel trapped in unfortunate situations. Behind the scenes, Rajah makes no fuss about acknowledging that his business is “run by women” and he sees the impartation of skills used in fashion production as sustainable forms of empowerment and a contributor towards social and economic transformation.
Fashion veteran, David Tlale, dedicated his SS20 collection to his “biggest muse” and late mother, Joyce Tlale. Tlale’s work jolted the runway with a collection that featured a more colourful display than his usual. Fashion revellers feasted on an ethereally layered range of soothing blues, optimistic citruses, bold prints and his customary “show-stopping” black.
Pan African Tapestry
Cameroon’s Kreyanne delivered a diverse collection, featuring a beautifully unusual gown which married short pastel tassels, with glittered triads throughout. Congolese- born Kahindo Mateene’s collection was characterised by vibrant prints, which were the byproduct of a collaboration with a Nigerian artist. Madagascan Eric Raisina strode in with a collection of rich eclecticism according to multiple tiers of the fashion spectrum. His work is a “must-see”! Taibo Bacar from Mozambique adorned models in tropical ensembles of some light, some tight and others of skin-baring variety. Taussy Daniel of Mozambique featured much evening wear in decadent chocolate and golden hues. Cameroonian- French Lawrence Airline’s stable had a strong eco-conscious message. The label mixed textures unconventionally. Combinations such as plastics with colourful prints and wools on waterproof fabrics produced a bold “wake-up call” to protect our natural heritage.
More World-Class Highlights
As this was a fashion week, it was just as much about having a good party, as much as it was about indulging in beautiful fashions. Spectators were treated to African cuisine, fine art and entertainment from the legendary Femi Kuti, South African hot favourite Kwesta and, the globally celebrated, Ndlovu Youth Choir.
Founded in 2007, AFI has grown to organise Africa Fashion Week, Africa Fashion Awards, Cape Town Fashion Week Spring/Summer, Johannesburg Fashion Week Autumn/Winter and co-organising credit for Durban Fashion Week. Visit them online for updates on their next events.
All images courtesy of African Fashion International.