On the African-Inspired AFDW 2016 runway

The 2016 edition of African Fashion and Design Week themed “Be Inspired” had the best of designers across Africa showcasing their talents in Lagos few weeks back.

The two-day fashion event hosted by Sika Osei and Uti Nwachukwu, wrapped up with the grand finale on October 9, 2016 at the prestigious Oriental Hotel in Victoria Island.

It was a parade of stars, established and emerging ones across the continent, who wowed the audience in mostly African-inspired designs on the runway.

Among the collections showcased at AFDW 2016 was “Pirr” by Gambia based design label, Phuzion. Pirr was inspired by the Grecian era, mixing soft and flowery textures with pearls, crystals, and Swarovski crystals; intricately hand beaded to create a complex, but unique collection.

Nigerian designer label, Alfeiz, unveiled its collection titled “Mixed Feelings.”Nigerian International, multi award-winning designer, Modela Couture, also unveiled his latest collection inspired by Edo Royalty with hand arranged special beads ensemble mostly in red, green and blue.

This collection can be worn by brides or at any red carpet event. It is created with a confident woman in mind, who has a clear idea of her personal style, and has no inhibitions about standing out in the crowd. It can be described in three words: vivid, sensual and feminine.

Top Kenyan designer, Jamil Walji of JW Couture unveiled his latest collection titled “Kabile Turkmenistan”.Chicago-based Congolese Fashion Designer, Kahindo Mateene, equally unveiled her Spring/Summer 2017 collection at the event.

The collection marks the rebirth of her brand, under its new name, KAHINDO. The essence is maintained in its bold colours and prints while sexy, sophistication and attention to detail remained priority.

Her Congolese heritage shines through, with more emphasis on texture. The color palette was inspired by conceptual artist, Lina Iris Victor, whose work, specifically his painting, “Syzygy”, creates synergy between blue, black, white and 24-carat gold.

Afriken (Ghana), Alvince Couture (Nigeria), Blessing Genius (Nigeria) Rahima Mohammed Couture (Zimbabwe/UK), Grace Wallace (Togo), Raaah (Zimbabwe/UK) and a host of others also exhibited their collections at the event organized to showcase and celebrate African culture and talents.