The Hottest Designers at AFWL 2013

I headed down to Africa Fashion Week London this weekend at the Truman Brewery in Brick Lane to check out the hottest new designers in the African Fashion World and it was well worth my time. Take a look at some of my best picks this year...

AAMAA a la Mode 

The second designer to show at Africa Fashion Week London on Saturday, AAMAA à la mode blew me away. The fusion of different cultures is apparent in this collection and designer Toyosi Mobereola has done well to showcase both traditional prints and modern designs.

In her own words, Toyosi said: "The collections are based upon the idea of fusion using traditional as well as contemporary African fabrics combined with western influences to create a unique Afro-centric look that is proving very popular, not only in Africa, but also around the world."

My favourite piece from this collection is pictured above. I love the modern cut out shirt with traditional print trousers and can see this look being worn by working women in the UK and Africa.

aamaacouture.co.uk

Ella & Gabby

So good they had their own solo show, Ella & Gabby aims to celebrate "the beauty, boldness, class and pride of a woman in the detailed and simplified art of sophistication and luxury". The Nigerian brand headed by Ada Mgbudem brought colour and vibrance to the runway with sequin detailed designs and delicate materials.

This is my favourite piece from the collection, mostly because of the unique colour and pattern design but also because of the structured tailoring which is different to many other designs in Ella & Gabby's collections.

ellaandgabby.com

Baah by Jessica Baah 

 

My absolute favourite brand this year is Baah by Jessica Baah which was only started in January by Jessica Baah a mother of one who has no formal fashion education.  So what is this brand all about? Jessica told me that she sees her label as "an Afro punk glamour fashion brand with 2 labels; the Black label which is ready to wear and the Gold label which makes pieces for music, TV and film." The impact that some of Jessica's pieces have make them perfect for the big and small screen and while the brand is only a few months old. it has been hugely popular already because of its use of unconventional materials such as plastic. Look out for the launch of this brand at the end of the year.

Until then feast your eyes on my favourite piece, this elegant gown has enough drama for an on screen vixen and enough class to be worn to a very special function.

baahbyjessicabaah.com