In with the Old, In with the New
As a young yet sophisticated venture itself, Adiree presented a 2nd annual show which not only highlighted well-established and well known African designers, such as Korto Momolu of Project Runway fame, but also served as a platform for promising newcomers and their innovative designs. Thirty different designers were featured in this three-day extravaganza of fashion. Many of the designs showcased encompassed African print fabric that has been used for decades in traditional African attire. Now this traditional African fabric (also known as Ankara) has become increasingly popular in modern wear and was evident during AFWNY. ___

Nigerian designer Asake Agoro, creator of Asake-Oge Couture, featured fierce and bold dresses constructed with beautiful African prints. Her line reflected her inspiration - a powerful pioneer and fighter for independence, Madame Yoko - well known to the people of Sierra Leone. Chigozie Anaele, creator of Kachi Designs (launched in April 2010), made her entrance as a newcomer to the fashion industry. Her style reflected young, flirty, and fun; also utilizing colorful African prints. When asked if she follows trends, she remarked, “I don’t go with the flow….I go back to the past” to get her inspiration. What was important to her about designing clothes was making them wearable, “I want to be able to wear what I design.”___

One of the standout collections of AFWNY 2011 was from Madam Wokie Couture, a Sierra Leone based fashion house established in 2009 by Mary Ann Kai Kai. The collection featured flirty dresses ranging from minis to full skirted pieces, chic pencil skirts and shorts. The pieces were tied together by their simple, yet statement-making pattern - bold stripes in mixes of green, yellow, purple and pink, all made of eco-friendly materials from local Sierra Leonean artisans. A highlight of the line was a pink and green striped kimono style coat-dress. ___

Other featured designers include Josefa Dasilva, from Cape Verde, showcasing dresses and two piece attire made with animal prints and glistening fabrics; Ndina Ndebele, from Zimbawe and creator of Endexus Creations, displayed her new collection consisting of sleeveless dresses with a running theme of yellow, brown, and black – providing a natural and earthy look; and Fidirke Addis, an Ethiopian designer, showcased a goddess-like line of elegant dresses crafted from handmade Ethiopian cotton, trimmed with gold. Lastly, designer, Bill Witherspoon, reminded us that our men want fashion in their lives as well. The “Mr. Witherspoon” collection featured an eclectic mixture of texture, shine, and bright colors. ___

The Creator
Adiat Disu, director of AFWNY, was the mastermind behind this remarkable event, which emphasized the impact and future of African-inspired clothing. Originally an information system major, she knew she had an “interest in fashion from a business point of view”. Therefore, she created, “Adiree”. Its main purpose is to create marketing strategies to promote different brands internationally and to promote international brands locally. She has a passion for African fashion. Eloquently she states, “I’m hoping that people don’t consider it a trend, because it’s not a trend…it’s here to stay. Brands such as Marc Jacobs, Burberry, Aldo, and LVMH” have already caught on this movement by utilizing African prints in their clothing and shoes.” In regards to the future of African Fashion Week, “I’m looking forward to being in Paris, London, Milan – all the fashion capitals!” Another motivation for her passion is knowing the amount of jobs fashion week creates – over 800! She’s a strong woman who believes in what she does and continues to make an impact in the fashion industry. ___

From the Stage & Beyond
Not to be outdone by the models, guests showed up decked out in their best “cross-cultural” attire, mixing modern style with traditional African fabrics. From chic head wraps to dresses with bold prints, the cultural influence behind the evening’s fashion choices was clearly evident. Even the men donned outfits drawing from the African aesthetic. From the stage and beyond, AFWNY 2011 was bound to leave even the most conservative fashionista looking to the Motherland for inspiration.

By Boma Agboh Stroude
Nakia White ___