A Look at Fashion in Africa: Angola, South Africa, and More

by Anna Getaneh, Africa.com Featured Blogger

Fashion Business Angola has just wrapped up in Luanda and Africa Fashion International is underway in Johannesburg, South Africa, with its three-day showcasing of pan-African designers. The continent’s capital cities continue to be peppered with various fashion weeks and fashion-related events, drawing ever more attention to the budding clothing and textile industry on a continent where the middle class is fast-growing and is helping to boost growth in the retail industry.

I was delighted to be in Luanda after six years of not visiting Angola. It was remarkable to witness the country's dizzying growth and development—it's no wonder that Angola boasts one of the top 10 economies on the continent. I had a fabulous time showcasing some of my latest collection alongside some of the most talented and creative group of designers I have collaborated with in a long time.

African Mosaique by Anna Getaneh

The event was resplendent with 3 designers and 42 models from all of Africa's corners, and the fashions featured just about every colour in the spectrum. The production was world-class, brought to vibrant life by South Africa’s Jan Malan and his production team, Umzigelli Productions.

Adama Paris

From couture to urban wear, bridal and swim wear, children’s wear and men’s wear together with ladies wear, it was a true kaleodoscope of vibrant hues, motifs, and craftmanship. Each night offered a wide variety of creations that kept the audience captivated and immersed with cosmopolitan African glamour. We were graced on the final night with the presence of H.E. the First Lady of Angola, Ana Paula Dos Santos, an elegant and generous patron of the arts, fashion and other worthwhile causes. Together with the emerging designers, the First Lady was applauded with cheers from an enamoured crowd.

Bongiwe Walaza

The event was sponsored and championed by successful entrepreneur Matos Cardoso, chairman of the Luanda International Fair, who was brimming with enthusiasm as he supportively and generously handed out certificates to each of us, encouraging, thanking, and recognizing Africa’s emerging talent.

Christie Brown

It was yet another night of colourful and cutting edge fashion in an Africa that is brimming with creativity and youth, an industry that is well on its way to joining the developing world’s emerging markets.

David Tlale

Eric Raisina

Lucrecia Moreira

Mafi

Mpho Kuaho