Mode

We have moved from the era of “exotic curiosity” to one of commercial maturity and structural development. Whether in Paris, Abidjan, or Nairobi, the continent’s designers are no longer just seeking to captivate audiences on the runway: they are forming partnerships, streamlining their value chains, and helping to redefine contemporary luxury.

On June 26, 2026, in the midst of Fashion Week, the Musée du quai Branly hosted the closing ceremony of the 6th edition of Africa Fashion Up. Held under the patronage of Emmanuel Macron, this event—founded by Valérie Ka and Share Africa—celebrates contemporary African design as a major creative and entrepreneurial force in the global industry.

“Smart, African, Ambitious.” This three-part phrase isn’t just a slogan—it’s GALXBOY’s DNA. Founded in 2008, this South African luxury streetwear brand has successfully transformed a college T-shirt project into a fashion empire.

To celebrate its tenth anniversary, the eco-friendly sneaker brand PANAFRICA, co-founded by Vulfran de Richoufftz and Hugues Didier, is opening its very first in-house factory in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

Now in its second edition at Galeries Lafayette, the “Africa Now” pop-up confirms that “Made in Africa” is no longer just a niche aesthetic, but a major player in global trade.

For fashion strategist Lulu Shabell, Africa must stop negotiating its way onto Western runways and instead build its own infrastructure. With the launch of ÀLKÉ, she aims to transform a millennia-old heritage into a sovereign economic infrastructure.