Africa Fashion Up competition
Paris, the undisputed capital of fashion, is preparing to write a new chapter in its history with African creativity. From June 18 to July 8, Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann will host Pop Up Africa Now, an event dedicated to contemporary African fashion. At the heart of this ambitious initiative is the renewed collaboration between Galeries Lafayette and Africa Fashion Up. This partnership highlights the bold vision of Valérie Ka and her team, who, through their commitment and expertise, reveal the vitality and sophistication of African creation to Parisian and international audiences.
Every year, Africa Fashion Up offers an ambitious program in Paris entirely dedicated to contemporary African fashion. Born of a desire to reveal and promote the continent’s new generation of talented designers, this initiative has become a veritable platform for a creative, ambitious and radiant Africa. Under the direction of Valérie Ka, Africa Fashion Up has established itself as a key player in the promotion of African cultural and creative industries through a fashion show, a dinner and a series of conferences.
A gas pedal for young designers
The program offers selected designers top-level coaching, supported by prestigious partnerships with institutions such as Balenciaga, Galeries Lafayette Haussmann and HEC Paris. This mentoring of excellence is crucial, offering designers not only incomparable international visibility, but also in-depth training that strengthens their entrepreneurial and creative skills. A presence at Paris Fashion Week, access to key industry networks and exposure in the most influential spheres of international fashion are all vital opportunities that Africa Fashion Up makes possible.
In 2024, Africa Fashion Up reached a historic milestone when it organized the first ever sale of African designers at the Coupole des Galeries Lafayette, in the heart of Paris. This event was more than just a business transaction; it was a resounding affirmation of African fashion’s rightful place in the world of luxury and ready-to-wear. The collaboration with “Africa Now” is a natural extension of this ambition, consolidating Africa Fashion Up’s position as an essential bridge between the African continent and the fashion capitals.
Banke Kuku
A selection of bold, innovative designers
Africa Fashion Up’s selection of designers for Pop-Up Africa Now reflects their commitment to presenting diverse, innovative and high-quality African fashion. Each designer embodies a unique facet of this stylistic richness, blending cultural heritage with contemporary vision.
Banke KukuLondon-trained designer, offers luxury loungewear pieces that harmoniously fuse British and Nigerian influences. Her collections are an invitation to relaxation and elegance, characterized by bold prints and sumptuous fabrics that tell a story of cultural blending and sophistication.
Algueyea Senegalese designer, stands out for his resolutely modern, ethnic style. His outfits for men and women are a celebration of contemporary African fashion, where clean cuts meet traditional motifs, creating an aesthetic that is both urban and rooted in heritage.
Bandamaa committed Ivorian brand, promotes wax and local know-how through ethical, solidarity-based fashion. Their creations are not just aesthetically pleasing; they carry a strong message of social and environmental responsibility, supporting local artisans and promoting sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
Last but not least, Collé Sow Ardoa true pioneer of African fashion, is renowned for her exceptional work with woven loincloths. Her commitment to a local textile industry and her ability to modernize ancestral techniques make her an emblematic figure. Her creations are an ode to authenticity and transmission, illustrating how tradition can inspire innovation.
These designers, chosen with discernment by Studio Ka and Africa Fashion Up, embody the diversity of approaches, aesthetics and commitments within African fashion, offering the Parisian public a complete and inspiring vision.
Galeries Lafayette diversifies its product range
Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann, with over 130 years of history, is a major player in event-driven retail and fashion. Their commitment to “bringing people together, inspiring them and making them dream” is fully demonstrated through initiatives such as “Africa Now”. By reaffirming their privileged links with the African continent, Galeries Lafayette is not just offering a commercial space; it is acting as a historic springboard for African creation.
Welcoming this “new generation of contemporary fashion designers from the African continent”, as expressed by Alix Morabito, Director of Women’s Fashion Purchasing and Special Projects, is a testament to the department store’s desire to reveal Africa’s creative energy to the public. This visibility in such a prestigious venue as Galeries Lafayette is invaluable recognition for African designers, offering them a unique platform to reach an international clientele and consolidate their place on the global fashion scene. It’s an unprecedented opportunity to break down stereotypes and showcase dynamic, innovative and profoundly contemporary African fashion.
Pop Up Africa Now, the fashion event not to be missed
The collaboration between Galeries Lafayette and Africa Fashion Up x Studio Ka is a striking example of how established institutions can become catalysts for the promotion of African cultural and creative industries. “Africa Now” is an invitation to discover unique pieces, exceptional know-how and inspiring stories. It’s an opportunity to support ethical, bold fashion rooted in a rich heritage, while looking to the future.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to plunge into the world of contemporary African fashion. Visit Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann, from June 18 to July 8, to explore the collections of Banke Kuku, Algueye, Bandama, Collé Sow Ardo and many others, and be part of this vibrant celebration of African creation.
Read also
