RUNWAY AFRICA
FEATURING PROJECT RUNWAY FINALIST KORTO MOMOLU
The designers that we have ensembled are from different African countries, from Ethiopia to Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo to Liberia and South Africa: they have combined their traditional color and cloth; fusing these two elements with contemporary fashion to produce beautiful couture and everyday wear that is bold and beautiful.
As you know Minnesota is home to the largest Liberian community in the US, and what better way to learn some of their collaborative culture than through fashion and design. Korto Momolu has been doing this when she introduced the world to her designs on Heidi Klum’s Project Runway (as seen on Bravo TV). Local Minnesotan designers Ariel Simone and Grace Crawford, also Liberian immigrants, are beginning to make their mark.
Other designers include: Mekdi Design whose designer Mekdes Taye, a Californian of Ethiopian descent, most famous design is a wedding dress she made from popcorn, wire mesh and handcrafted cotton textiles.
Kahindo Mateene’s label Modahnik uses traditional silhouettes with contemporary styles a reflection of her global influences. Born in Uganda of Congolese parents, Mateene now lives in Chicago.
Lalesso, a label run by a South African and Kenya duo uses the traditional East African cloth, the khanga, to design colorful and vibrant summer wear. Featured in a Vogue spread their clothes have been described as light, airy, vibrant and ready to wear.
On a visit to Kenya from California Wawi Amasha found herself buying yards of fabric from a market compelled by the colors. And the birth of Mami Afrika, her clothing label.
Recent St. Cloud State graduates, Lloyd Keli and Timothy Kariuki, fuse Nairobi and American urban fashion to create a men’s fashion line Nairobi Wear.
For interviews and other queries contact Natalie Augur, VimLab Promotions. 612 229 8522
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