Models.com returned to the buzzing metropolis last year for Lagos Fashion and Design Week to uncover what over 50 designers from around the continent had to offer for the new season. What we found was more expansive than what we expected – developed retail spaces like Alara and Temple Muse that blended seamlessly American and European fashion brands, new age African designers, breathtaking art, and exceptional interiors. Alara, designed by David Adjaye of Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture fame, takes the idea of “retail” and turns it on its head as the concept store and restaurant stands as an ambitious architectural feat. Bold and vividly remarkable, its distinct cardinal facade stood as the perfect setting for the latest original fashion story from Models.com, shot by photographer Lakin Ogunbanwo. We partnered with LFDW and leading digital e-commerce platform, Oxosi, to bring a chosen selection of the best and the brightest design talents that have ties to Africa – whether overtly or covertly. Since top models like Oluchi Onweagba have paved the way, the latest crop of fresh faced newcomers from Nigeria, Mayowa Nicholas and Uju Marshall, carry on the torch to provide the perfect frame for these wondrously expressive designs.
Take an exclusive look below to see just what Africa has to offer.
Andrea Iyamah
Bridget Awosika
Grey
I.Am.Isigo
Kenneth Ize
Ladunni Lambo
Lanre Da Silva Ajayi
L’Enchanteur
Lisa Folawiyo
Lolita Lorenzo
Loza Maleombho
Nkwo
Orange Culture
Rayo
Ré
Tsemaye Binitie
Sophie Zinga
Ugo Mozie
Washington Roberts
Zashadu
Photography by Lakin Ogunbanwo for Models.com
Fashion Editor – Irene Ojo-Felix
Make Up – Odiri Obrutse
Nails – Veronica Odeka using Vane Polish
Models – Mayowa Nicholas and Uju Marshall
Special thanks to Alara Lagos, Lagos Fashion and Design Week, and Oxosi
On Uju: Top – Washington Roberts | Shawl (worn as belt) – Ladunni Lambo | Pants – Andrea Iyamah | Earrings – L’Enchanteur courtesy of OXOSI
On Uju: Shirt (worn on top) – Nkwo | Top – Re’ | Skirt – Tsemaye Binitie | Box clutch – Zashadu courtesy of OXOSI | Hat – Ugo Mozie courtesy of OXOSI
On Uju: Top – I.Am.Isigo | Bandeau top – Andrea Iyamah | Skirt – Loza Maleombho | Necklace – Orange Culture
Gorgeous editorial, fabulous work!!
I’m live in Austin, TX. I’m from France. I’m 15 years old. My mother is from Cameroon and my dad from France. I really want to be a model, that’s my dream. I’m play basketball in my high school.
Check out http://www.foremanmanagement.com in Austin.
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The girls and the clothes are just gorgeous. The combination of vibrant colors and unique patterns tell a wonderful story.
l love FASHION and l hope to pursuer my passion and dream
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Who’s super talented in modeling???