The E1 Championship Fashion Show, which held recently at the EbonyLife Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos lived up to expectation as a vibrant hub for creativity and innovation, as it told the story of a new Africa rising through styles.
Presenting a vibrant mix of traditional artistry and modern innovation garments, the runway featured exceptional designers from across Africa and abroad, whose creative direction positioned African fashion at the centre of the global stage.
Curated by Rikaoto by Me, the show brought together some of Africa’s most visionary designers, each telling stories woven in fabric, tradition, and modern artistry where fashion met opportunity and vision met investment. Some of the designers includes: Anjoreen Couture, Prince Glam Style (Nigeria), Rikaotobyme, Tannymash (Zimbabwe), Afrikayla, Keannie Fashion Empire, What 2 Wear, SGTC Clothing (Ghana) and Dashikipride African Designers in the Diaspora (New York City).
The evening opened with Afrikayla by Ibijoke Shallangwa, whose collection celebrated Africa’s rich heritage through a stunning fusion of ankara, adire, aso oke and kente, reimagined in fresh, urban silhouettes. “We’re passionate about telling Africa’s story through fashion. Every piece carries a slice of history stitched into style, that’s Afrikayla,” the designer said.
‘What to Wear’ redefined the classic agbada with refined detailing and elegance, while Keannie Fashion Line lit up the runway with playful, curvy dresses for the modern party lover. RikaotoByMe, showcased luxury gowns dazzled under the lights, each one a symphony of crystals, beads, and stones reflecting African opulence at its finest.
Founder and CEO of RikaotoByMe, Maryam Elisha, described the event as a celebration of Africa’s creative excellence, powered by vision, partnership, and purpose.
She acknowledged the strong support of Afreximbank through its CANEX programme, FEDA, and the Lagos State government, whose collaboration made the show possible. “This is more than fashion, it is a platform that unites designers, artisans, and models from across the continent to tell the story of African innovation. Together, we’re accelerating intra-African trade and investment in the creative economy while amplifying our talent to the world.”