When the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week rolls around, the shoe series is allowed to put up its feet up for a minute. The #MBFWJ 17 went down from the 17th to the 19th of August, showcasing Spring/Summer 17 collections from African and International designers. Brought to the masses by African Fashion International (AFI), this year’s theme was #RootedInStyle with the intention of the young fashion collective to celebrate their style and African individuality. The theme was driven by Xperience AFI lounge in recognition of the impact that African fashion has had on designers globally. What better way than to target the millennial generation by encouraging them to celebrate and explore their unique and fashionable creativity? Nine designers got the chance to showcase and you can see their collections here.
Athleisure did make appearance and a swimsuit piece or two. Nonetheless, most designers appeared to be adhering to the memo that sheer/ near naked remains in vogue, with the embellished peekaboo fashion being a predominant feature on the runway. There was also a notable increase of diversity on the runway, with curvier models making into the line-up. But we have to say that the men’s fashion dominated the spotlight for us.
There were 44 designers who took to the runway which included Veterans to MBFW, David Tlale, Leigh Schubert, Marianne Fassler and Stefania Morland. You can see the full line up on the AFI website but here are some of the designers whose collection or presentation stood out for us:
Marianne Fassler
Quiteria & George
The Intern by David Tlale
Narok NYC
AFI Prive
Scalo by Sello Medupe
Vizuvlgvds
KLUK CGDT
Especially for their runway design. As we discussed previously in the fashion show series, it pays to switch up your runway presentation from time to time. Not just because it’s more entertaining for the audience, but also to enhance your pieces.
We’d like to know your thoughts on the SS17 showcase. Which designer blew you away, the piece you’d buy straight off of the runway and who could’ve done better.
Sources: Images sourced from Africa Fashion International and are subject to copyright ©AFI Gallery.
