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 was 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.
The 4 pm show featured AFWL returnees – the Trade and Investment Kwa Zulu Natal (TIKZN) 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. The Jaded Life Collective – a social enterprise programme developing fashion alumni and emerging start-ups also took to the runway with 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! 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 they showcased a collection that proved to be a cross of contemporary design and traditional print.
For 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.
Here’s a look at a few pieces off the AFWL 2019 runway…
Precious Lulu Couture (TIKZN)
Bright Shadow (TIKZN)
GUGU (TIKZN)
SHWE – THE WEARABLE LIBRARY (TIKZN)
Get Eleavated (TIKZN)
Sluvin Designs (TIKZN)
Yadah Creative Designs (TIKZN)
Wendy H Bridal (TIKZN)
Unalisa (TIKZN)
LN Watches (TIKZN)
The Jaded Life Collective
Laaste by Edi
Urban Zulu
Photo credit: Joanna Mitroi Photography
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