An afternoon of rain of near biblical proportions did not stop an enthusiastic crowd who turned out to witness Africa Fashion Week London 2019’s opening shows and new format.
The public were invited to “Experience Africa” with a meandering Souk Marketplace; a fascinating Business Fashion Forum; a Luxury Boutique; a Food Hall and, of course, the now-famous AFWL Catwalk Shows.
FRIDAY 9 AUGUST, 4PM – TRADE & INDUSTRY KWA ZULU NATAL SHOWCASE
The 4pm show featured AFWL returnees – the Trade & Investment Kwa Zulu Natal showcase from South Africa. Highlights included a jaw-dropping mini-collections by Precious Lulu, the usual poise from Bright Shadow, and AFWL firm favourites – the signature yellows from Sluvin and Yadah Creations.
Precious Lulu Couture (TIKZN)
Bright Shadow (TIKZN)
GUGU (TIKZN)
SHWE – THE WEARABLE LIBRARY (TIKZN)
Manock Naturals (TIKZN)
Get Elevated (TIKZN)
Sluvin Designs (TIKZN)
Yadah Creative Designs (TIKZN)
Wendy H Bridal (TIKZN)
Unalisa (TIKZN)
LN Watches (TIKZN)
All credits to Joanna Mitroi Photography
FRIDAY 9 AUGUST, 4PM – Jaded Life Collective
Jaded Life Collective is a social enterprise programme developing fashion alumni and emerging start-ups. On the AFWL catwalk were 3 hugely talented UK designers, comprising Sibu Dladla, You Me We and Vaughanan Anson who wowed with their subversive themes and on-trend slogans. “My Plaintain is Fried”? Genius!
All credits to Joanna Mitroi Photography
FRIDAY 9 AUGUST, 4PM – Laaste by Edi
Laaste by Edi is a clothing line that offers an eclectic mix of styles with a multi-cultural appeal in the UK and Europe. Using a mix of fabrics and styles the collection proved to be a cross of contemporary design and traditional print. We loved it.
All credits to Joanna Mitroi Photography
FRIDAY 9 AUGUST, 4PM – Urban Zulu
The direct translation of the word “Zulu” means Heaven. Urban Zulu certainly embodied the ideal of urban heaven. An inspired collection full of beauty and texture – Urban Zulu connected the ideal of love and unity in this hand-drawn collection that reflected African identity.
All credits to Joanna Mitroi Photography
Save the Date for AFWL2020!
7-8 August 2020
Freemasons’ Hall
60 Great Queen Street
London WC2B 5AZ
Doors open from 12pm both days for shopping, browsing and seminar talks
*These dates and times indicative and subject to a slight change.
