African fashion is going through an exciting revival driven by passion, creativity, and heritage. Across the continent, designers, creatives, and industry leaders are reshaping the global narrative about Africa through cultural narratives and craftsmanship.
Among these emerging fashion capitals stepping into the spotlight as a key fashion hub of innovation, creativity, and luxury is Ivory Coast’s capital city Abidjan.
For decades, iconic Ivorian designers such as Pathé’O, Alain Niava, Elie Kuame, Adama Paris, Lafalaise Dion, Loza Maleombho, among others have paved the way for this evolution. Their pioneering works has established a strong foundation to inspire a new generation of designers.
Abidjan has long been a place where different cultures and styles come together, blending traditional Ivorian craftsmanship with modern innovation. In recent times, the city is embracing its full potential as a fashion powerhouse known for its vibrant community of young promising designers.
Among the city’s promising designers are La Maison Kanty’s, Lewa, Roger et Cecil, L’Atelier Bon Design, Libali Design, and Magic Hands CI. Notably, La Maison Kanty’s won the Le Jeune Talent Award in honor of Marie-Thérèse Houphouët-Boigny, a milestone that underscores the city’s growing recognition in the industry.
A defining moment in the city’s fashion evolution was the launch of La Fashion Week by Elie Kuame which doubled as the first-ever fashion week in the city. This landmark event cements Abidjan’s growing influence as a key fashion hub city in Africa, attracting global recognition and offering designers the platform to showcase their talents.
Abidjan now joins the list of established African fashion weeks such as Dakar Fashion Week, Lagos Fashion Week, and South African Fashion Week, all of which play an important role in celebrating and elevating the African fashion industry.
Credits:
Cover Star: Fofana Marie Rose, Dorcas Akoua, Abdoul Traore
Photographer: Emmanuel Sey
Videographer: Emmanuel Wiafe
Creative Direction/Styling: Nuel Bans
Assistant Stylist: Racheal Akonnor
Hair and makeup: @tytyshubeauty
Designers: @roger_et_cecile , @lamaisonkantys , @libali_flow , @lewa_abidjan , @magichandsci , @evrard_creation , @latelier_bondesign
Article: Stanley Alipui
Production: Debonair Afrik Studios
