The highly anticipated Lagos Fashion Week officially kicked off today, March 29, 2022, at the prestigious Victoria Island venue, marking a triumphant return after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s event promises to celebrate the best of African fashion, featuring an impressive lineup of designers and models from across the continent.

Under the theme “Reimagining Fashion,” Lagos Fashion Week 2022 aims to highlight sustainability, creativity, and innovation in the fashion industry. The event includes runway shows, exhibitions, and workshops designed to engage attendees and promote collaboration among designers, stylists, and fashion enthusiasts.

The opening show featured collections from top designers, including Mai Atafo, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi, and Ziva Lagos. Each designer presented unique pieces that reflect contemporary African aesthetics, incorporating vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and traditional craftsmanship. The collections received enthusiastic applause from an audience that included fashion influencers, industry professionals, and media representatives.

Kemi Ogunleye, the founder of Lagos Fashion Week, expressed her excitement about the return of the event, stating:
“This year’s theme is about embracing change and fostering a sense of community in fashion. We are excited to bring together talents from different backgrounds and celebrate the diversity of African fashion.”

In addition to runway shows, the event features panel discussions addressing pressing issues in the fashion industry, such as sustainability and the impact of digital innovation. Industry experts will share insights on how designers can adapt to the evolving landscape of fashion in a post-pandemic world.

The event also emphasizes inclusivity, with models of various sizes and backgrounds walking the runway, reflecting the diverse fabric of Nigerian society. This initiative aims to challenge conventional beauty standards and promote body positivity within the fashion community.

As part of the festival, a pop-up marketplace has been established, allowing local artisans and fashion entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their designs directly to consumers. This initiative aims to support small businesses and promote the local fashion economy.

Lagos Fashion Week will continue until April 2, 2022, with a packed schedule of activities, including evening shows and after-parties designed to celebrate the vibrancy of Nigeria’s fashion scene. With its return, Lagos Fashion Week reaffirms its position as a leading platform for African designers, showcasing their talent on both local and international stages.