Exhibitions & Events New business South Africa

Fashion week rocks Sandton

International Africa Fashion Week, currently under way at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, is proving to be a resounding success.
Designer: Ben Nonterah<p>Photo: Simon Deiner / SDR Photo
Designer: Ben Nonterah

Photo: Simon Deiner / SDR Photo
click to enlarge

Attracting fashionistas in great numbers in spite of the cold, it has highlighted one thing: that designers are there to showcase their skills and that they can take on the world on international ramps.

Typically African, the colours are vibrant and captivating.

Like everybody else, my jaw dropped at the beauty of Ben of Ghana's vibrant and chic creations.

It was not just about the flawless finish, but the colours and patterns that made you want to whip out your chequebook on the spot.

On the other hand, Cameroon's Anna Ngann Yonn's collection was mostly influenced by Oriental trends. From the long robes with hooxdas to the slits that cried out for pants or wrappers but did well for the leggy ones.

Designer: Patrick Asso, Ivory Coast<p>Photo: Simon Deiner / SDR Photo
Designer: Patrick Asso, Ivory Coast

Photo: Simon Deiner / SDR Photo
click to enlarge

Francophone countries are well-known for their flawless designs. Ivory Coast's Patrick Asso lived up to that expectation.

His range specialised in yellow, from huge floppy hats, stunning shirts and skirts to evening dresses.

I was not particularly impressed with the bronze glitter on the finish because at some point it became too much. Of all the designers, Asso in a high-bronze, gold-sprinkled suit and Ghana's Ben in his snazzy jeans and shirt, stood out.

The Arise magazine-supported IFA, which is Precious Moloi's baby, has been well attended. It's drawn celebs, fashionistas, politicians and the general public.

Colours such as blue, purple, burnt orange, yellow, cream, copper and turquoise featured strongly on the ramp.

For more information, see: www.africanfashioninternational.com

Source: Sowetan

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