REPRESENTING: African designers left their mark on the runway, whether clad in tailored suits or adorned in knitwear and leather, each ensemble exuded a distinct African flair.
When Azawi sang her famous hit, My Year, she was referring to 2024 in my case and my experience at the just-concluded Moscow Fashion Week was evidence of this. I joined more than 70,000 of the world’s fashion enthusiasts who gathered in Moscow for a display of fashion splendour at the Moscow Fashion Week (MFW) 2024.
From the grandeur of the Manege to the stunning architecture of VDNH, the week-long extravaganza unfolded against the backdrop of historical landmarks, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
With more than120 designers hailing from diverse corners of the globe, including Russia, Brazil, Indonesia, China, South Africa and beyond, the event transcended geographical boundaries to celebrate the universal language of fashion. Despite the absence of representation from Uganda, the impeccable organisation and execution of MFW serve as a beacon of inspiration for fashion capitals worldwide, beckoning Kampala Fashion Week and Uganda International Fashion Week to make their return; bigger and more inclusive this time round.
The runway became a canvas of creativity as designers showcased their latest collections amidst anticipation and a star-studded front row seating that included Italian actress Ornella Muti, who was seen supporting her daughter, Naike Rivelli, as she graced the runway for the Russian fashion label Maison ESVE. Chinese actress Lily Ji, renowned for her roles in Pacific Rim: Uprising, showcased her assortment of traditional vintage Chinese garments, paying homage to her cultural roots and enriching the diverse cultural landscape of the event.
From the creations of Koss and the avant-garde visions of Yana Besfamilnaya to the sartorial poetry showcase by Gapanovich, each collection was a testament to the designers’ imagination and craftsmanship.
Gerda Irene’s collection, featuring warm hues and intricate crochet pieces, wove a story of transition, mirroring Moscow’s shift from winter to spring.
African designers left their mark on the runway, as Dope Store and Boys of Soweto from South Africa infused their showcases with vibrant hues and cultural resonance. Whether clad in tailored suits or adorned in knitwear and leather, each ensemble exuded a distinct African flair, taking those in attendance into a world of bold self-expression.
Close to home
Egyptian designer Waseem Khadra, on the other hand, mesmerised audiences with a captivating fashion showcase, depicting the many faces of human existence through meticulously curated ensembles.
Vassa & Co, which was one of my favourite showcases paid homage to constructivism with its sharply tailored coats, pant suits, and intricate fringes, creating the perfect aesthetic for this collection.
Beyond the runway, fashion presentations offered an intimate glimpse into the creative process, as designers opened doors to their ateliers to members of the press. From Svetlana Rodina’s nostalgic nod to vintage fabrics and prints to Alena Akhmadulina’s enchanting tales spun through pearl-infused embroidery, each presentation offered a window into the designer’s vision and artistry. Akhmadulina’s fur coats collection, however, is what had many of our jaws floored. With some pieces retailing at more than $100,000(about Shs388m), the craftsmanship and detailing infused into some of these pieces is undeniable and it is not hard to see why they are priced the way they are!
As MFW came to a climax, it became evident that fashion is not merely about garments but a transformative journey that transcends borders and cultures. The show reaffirmed its status as a global beacon of style, innovation, and creativity, leaving a permanent on mark the fashion scene.
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