From fashion to architecture, young African designers are making their mark on the industry. The diversity of their backgrounds and experiences is a testament to the fact that design is a truly global profession. Indeed, the future is bright for those who choose to dedicate themselves to the design scene in Africa. We could not resit but notice these two brilliant African young designers stepping into the global spotlight.
Hanifa – Conglose Rooted African Designer
Hanifa took advantage of the technology to create a sensation, at a time when the fashion industry was heavily hit by Covid19. She unveiled her new collection in a virtual 3D fashion show. An event which later went viral, and also marked her debut runway show ever since the brand was established in 2012.
Anifa Mvuemba is an American based, Congolese rooted fashion designer. She’s been making waves through her fashion brand Hanifa. Since the launch of her Pink Label Congo collection, she’s remained the favourite of the media amongst African designers. This is not only due to the unusual launching event, but special shouts from top celebrities such as Beyonce and placement on Tracee Ellis Ross in Elle’s The State of black Beauty package.
According to her, the collection was an homage to the Democratic Republic of Congo, her ancestral root. Mvuemba was able to convey through the collection, the beauty and hope of the Congolese spirit. Nevertheless, paying critical attention to precise tailoring, making the wearer feel their best. No doubt, Anifa has surely won a top spot for herself among African designers.
Mowalola
Mowalola Ogunlesi, a 26 years old Nigeria-born but London based fashion designer is another young African designer, making waves. In 2020, she was hired by Kanye West to design for the Yeezy-Gap collaboration. She finds her inspiration in her Nigerian roots, to produce non-traditional silhouette fashion pieces.
Designs That Explore The Nigerian 1970s Psychedelic Rock
Mowalola is popular amongst fashion consumers for her neon punkish leather, cut exiguously in skirts, tanks, crop tops and some other unorthodox lustrous fashion pieces. Her “graduate collection” was inspired by an ode to Lagos gearhead coupled with Nigerian 70s and 80s psychedelic rock. In an interesting manner, the collection wasn’t afraid to challenge contemporary African masculinity.
Visit Mowalola
Mowalola Bag
More African Designers Emerging Across The Continent
We know many are emerging into the spotlight as more opportunities roll out for creatives. In future Fashion blogs we would showcase even more works and creatives across the African design scene. If you are a creative and want to connect, contact us. Not to miss out on our next showcase, join the FAB community here.
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