Celebrating Community and Creativity: A Look at Lagos Fashion Week’s Woven Threads 2024
Lagos Fashion Week dazzled audiences once again with the much-anticipated fifth edition of Woven Threads, which ran from April 19th to April 21st, 2024. This season, themed “Commune,” transcended the boundaries of traditional fashion showcases by spotlighting the individuals and communities that form the backbone of the industry’s artistry.
In a world where sustainability often dominates discussions around fashion, “Commune” took a refreshing approach by placing culture at the forefront. This thematic shift signaled a conscious effort to explore the intricate tapestry of African creativity through the lens of community—a concept deeply ingrained in the continent’s cultural fabric and a driving force behind its vibrant fashion scene.
At its core, Woven Threads embodies a commitment to celebrating the ingenuity and resilience of African fashion designers while championing sustainability and waste reduction in the industry. Through thought-provoking exhibitions and engaging discussions, the event served as a platform for designers, experts, and stakeholders to exchange ideas and showcase best practices in African fashion design.
This season’s lineup featured an exciting array of designers, each bringing their own unique vision and perspective to the runway. Among the notable participants are Green Access 2023 Cohort Ajanée, By. Wuzzy, Dust of the Earth, Bornstarng, E.S.O. by Liman, This Is Us, Kilentar, Lohije, Y’wandelag, and Eki Kere, among others. With their diverse backgrounds and creative prowess, these designers promise to captivate audiences with their innovative designs and unwavering commitment to sustainability.
It also featured interactive installations, workshops, and live demonstrations of traditional craftsmanship & techniques such as tie-dye, weaving, presented by Planet 3R, Afthonia, MITIMETH & Éki Kéré. Brands like Kilentar, Boyedoe, The OR Foundation also presented digital exhibitions, enabling viewers to experience the shows virtually, embracing inclusivity and incorporating a global audience.
Some designers such as Pettre Taylor, DUST OF THE EARTH, Ajanéé, Bornstarng, Y’Wandelag, By Wuzzy, E.S.O by Liman, Oshobor, Éki Kéré, Kilentar, and Ré Lagos created a more immersive experience by inviting attendees to touch and feel the materials used in the creative process, allowing them engage with the collections more intimately.
As the fashion world continues to evolve, events like Woven Threads serve as a reminder of the transformative power of community and collaboration. By shining a spotlight on the individuals and communities driving change within the industry, Lagos Fashion Week reaffirms its position as a trailblazer in Africa’s fashion landscape.
