There was a warm welcome for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin’s first Africa Fashion Day: Urban Fashion Nights and Africa Fashion Day Berlin Designer Exhibition
On the 15th of January 2013, in the frame of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin the first Africa Fashion Day Berlin presents Urban Fashion Night in conjunction with Africa Fashion Day Berlin Designer Exhibition took place. One guest commented: “Apart from the expected vibrancy of some collections, the innovations and quality of designs impressed me. I did not realise the diversity within African Fashion.” The Africa Fashion Day introduced 10 passionate Designers from Jamaika, Senegal, Nigeria, South Africa, Suriname, Uganda, Ethiopia, Congo and Ghana to the German Fashion Scene.
Taking place at the prestigious and historical Adlon Hotel the press conference kicked off with an introduction of the new platform Africa Fashion Day Berlin, it’s relevance in the German market, and the designers. The proceedings were followed by an exhibition where press, buyers and end-consumers were able to meet with the designers and view their collections. Internationally prolific designers of the African diaspora presented their collections. José Hendo’s new A/W Contact Collection and her work with barkcloth wowed visitors.
Nkwo describes her collection as “free spirited, a bit nomadic, and totally African”. Her collection drew attention for its dramatically cut luxury jersey and striking blue hue. Outfits included floor and knee length dresses accentuating and flattering the female silhouette.
SAWA Shoes collection was in high demand amongst buyers and press. Made in Africa the SAWA Project has taken on the challenge to produce quality sneakers and succeeded. The quality of design, execution and colour impressed. The label rightfully prides itself to be the first sneaker made in Africa.
Bijou Makeda‘s jewellery range was made of natural fabrics or African Wax Print that seduced with the vibrancy and beauty of the colours and design. It included earrings, necklaces, rings and hair bands.
Hunadi Bespoke Couture fuses African print with western textiles. Slim-fit trousers and tailored jackets transformed by through bold prints and vibrant colours to key wardrobe pieces.
The second edition of Africa Fashion Day Berlin again showcases the potential of the booming African designer scene and reinforces us in our intention to establish a young, unique and innovative communication platform for international designers from Africa and the African diaspora. The first Africa Fashion Day Berlin received thoroughly positive feedback from the media as well as business professionals. It has heightened the awareness of modern design and international fashion that is inspired by individual visions as well as African styles and global trends from across the world. By showcasing this fashion we aim to introduce new perspectives to the prevailing fashion landscape. We be- lieve in the potential of modern fashion from the boom- ing fashion scene in Africa and the African diaspora. That is why we are introducing innovative designers to the German fashion industry and facilitating networking and knowledge exchange among fashion designers and producers from Africa, the Caribbean and Europe
TV journalist and presenter Dr. Nkechi Madubuko welcomed audiences. The much-anticipated runway show was finally opened by an electrifying performance by Onita Boone. Wearing a stunning black evening barckcloth creation by designer José Hendo
Adama Paris sophisticated and sexy her black A/W collection captivated and seduced with shimmering details, tassels. The collection displayed the charmingly French coquette attitude infused with African aesthetics.
Nomi by Naomi delivered as promised a “line stands for afro-european-cool unmistakable creations with an unexpected twist”. Her collection exuded a contagious joie de vivre. Her creations broke the seductive spell of Adama Paris and changed the atmosphere to the defiantly celebratory spirit Africa is known.
Romero Bryan A collective gasp escaped from the guest with the first creation appearing on the runway. Romero’s medley of past and present collections had the audience buzzing with excitement and left them wanting for more when he closed the show. Romero who is sponsored by Borovick Fabrics Ltd. says of his creations: “I am honoured to be part of this pioneering event. As an introduction to a new market for me here in Germany I wanted to present my journey as a designer but also the best of me. Hence I felt compelled to pick the best of each collection. “
Amongst the guests were celebrity and actress Dennenesh Zoude. Queried by press the beautiful actress responded: “It absolutely has a place in a Metropolis such as Berlin and it has been noted that that this event has received a lot of support. Ivy Quainoo winner of The Voice, Germany, first season 2012, TV presenter Aline von Drateln, actress Thelma Buabeng, actress Sheri Hagen, actress Sandra Lambeck, actress Luise Berndt, footballer Dennis Aogo, actor Trystan Pütter, Barbara Engel, International top model Papis Loveday, models Julia Meise, Nina Meise and celebrity make-up artist Boris Entrup (GERMANY’s Next Top Model) were amongst guest.
Founder Beatrace Oola:” So far I have had a lot of positive comments. There seemed to be a buzz and just general excitement in the air. Someone told me they were impressed that a first time production ran in such timely fashion. It is a new and also international team that pulled together in this production. This meant we meet challenges along the way but have also become a very close-knit family. We are grateful to all our partners, sponsors, media partners and supporters but also the press, who has received us so gracefully and welcoming. Also our visitors and guests who were enthusiastic interested and we have already received interests from buyers and press for our designers.”
The Africa Fashion Day Berlin gives thanks to the amazing support of all participants and is grateful and delighted to have received extensive sponsorship and support. Sponsors and Cooperation partner included Hotel Adlon Kempinski, L’Oréal Paris, Hotel Tiergarten Berlin, Chicchickclub, Simon-Hartman London, Designclub, M4 Models Management GmbH , East West Models, MOST WANTED MODELS Philips, Hotel Indigo, SAWA Shoes, Jade Maybelline New York, PrintingPoint.de, Muesli2Go, Haji.