The second season of Africa Fashion Week Los Angeles was a definite crowd pleaser this year. The 3-day event, which took place October 10-12th, included a Pop-Up shop, opening night mixer, two days of runway shows, and a closing night reception. AFWLA’s runway shows were hosted at the hip and contemporary Downtown Los Angeles art gallery located in the middle of the Fashion District, 525DTLA. Guests enjoyed vibrant graffiti art by R&B sensation Chris Brown and pieces from celebrity illustrator Mike Farhat as they mingled, took pictures, or treated themselves to complimentary drinks.
This year 10 collections were shown at AFWLA. The impressive line-up of talented emerging and established designers showcased to a packed room filled with local and international press, stylists, bloggers, buyers and other LA based tastemakers. Notable guests included actress KD Aubert, Janet Factor, president of corporate event planning at Royalty Lifestyle Group Soloman Nnanna, Arik Airlines Executive Kobina Brew-Hammond, and gallery owner MB Abram.
LA based designers Tina Summers, Della, and David Giampiccolo all wowed guests with their impeccably crafted garments and show stopping pieces.
Houston based label 2 African Girls was one of the most anticipated collections at AFWLA, and they did not disappoint. Their Spring/Summer 2014 collection featured edgy cut outs, body hugging silhouettes, and vibrant African print clothing, as well as a variety of accessories; hats, jewelry, and handbags. With their clothing and handbags already being worn by Beyonce and other pop culture icons, 2 African Girls are on a fast track to success. Joining AFWLA from Sierra Leone, Maryzo Designs appropriately closed the show with her exquisite collection titled “Musu Kunti” which means Woman Warrior. The collection featured elegantly tailored pieces in rich African prints adorned with African cowrie shells, a great end to an amazing fashion show.
The founders of AFWLA Nnenna Obioha and Onyinyechi Egeonuigwe expressed their joy at the outcome of this year’s AFWLA event; “We’re so happy that we were able to create a platform like this for LA Fashion Week, African designers have a unique and inventive take on fashion that needs to be showcased.” The duo is very pleased with the outcome of the show and intend to expand their brand in the coming year.
For more information check out their site Africa Fashion Week Los Angeles
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