Lagos Fashion Week Triumphs at the Earthshot Prize 2025 – A Landmark Moment for Sustainable Fashion
In a groundbreaking achievement that resonates far beyond the runway, Lagos Fashion Week has won the prestigious Earthshot Prize 2025. This historic accolade not only celebrates the vibrant creativity of African fashion but also underscores a pivotal shift towards sustainability in the global fashion industry. As we reflect on this momentous occasion, it is crucial to recognise the profound implications of this victory for designers, consumers, and the planet.
Earthshot Prize 2025
Lagos Fashion Week is at the forefront of transforming one of the world’s most wasteful industries by creating a new fashion economy rooted in purpose, sustainability, and cultural integrity. The initiative is not merely about showcasing beautiful garments; it is about redefining the entire fashion ecosystem to prioritise environmental responsibility and ethical practices.
“Fashion has the power to create jobs, preserve culture, and transform lives — that is why we do this work,” stated Omoyemi Akerele, founder of Lagos Fashion Week. Her vision encompasses a future where fashion is not just an aesthetic experience but also a meaningful and responsible endeavour. This award will “allow us to keep pushing for a future where fashion is not just beautiful, but also meaningful and responsible,” she emphasised.
Lagos Fashion Week has long been a cornerstone of the African fashion scene, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit of local designers. With this win at the Earthshot Prize, Lagos Fashion Week is now positioned as a leader in sustainable fashion on a global scale. The event has consistently highlighted the unique narratives of African designers, emphasising tradition, craftsmanship, and the importance of local materials. This victory is not just a win for the event itself but a triumph for the continent’s creative expression.
From left to right: Representatives and founders from Friendship, Lagos Fashion Week, The city of Bogotá, The High Seas Treaty, and Re: Green took home the Earthshot Prize
The Earthshot Prize, launched by Prince William and The Royal Foundation, is dedicated to finding solutions to the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. Winning this accolade is a testament to Lagos Fashion Week’s commitment to sustainability. The prize recognises innovative approaches that can lead to meaningful change, and Lagos Fashion Week has demonstrated its potential to inspire a new direction in fashion.
Lagos Fashion Week’s victory is a clear signal to the global fashion industry that sustainability is not just a trend but a necessity. By winning the Earthshot Prize, the event has set a benchmark for other fashion weeks and brands worldwide. It highlights the importance of integrating sustainable practices, such as using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, and promoting ethical labour practices.
Designers participating in Lagos Fashion Week have already embraced these principles, showcasing collections that prioritise sustainability without compromising on style. This recognition will likely encourage even more designers to adopt eco-conscious practices, fostering a culture of responsibility within the industry.
Omoyemi Akerele
In the words of Omoyemi Akerele, “Fashion has the power to create jobs, preserve culture, and transform lives.” As we look to the future, let’s embrace this power and work together to build a fashion industry that is not only beautiful but also meaningful and responsible.
One of the most significant impacts of this win is the empowerment of local artisans and communities. Lagos Fashion Week has always celebrated the talent and craftsmanship of local creators. With the Earthshot Prize, there is an opportunity to enhance support for these artisans, providing them with resources, training, and access to international markets. This empowerment not only preserves traditional techniques but also creates sustainable livelihoods for countless individuals.
Prince Williams with Winners
Lagos Fashion Week’s victory is poised to inspire a new generation of designers and fashion enthusiasts across Africa and beyond. It serves as a powerful reminder that creativity and sustainability can coexist, encouraging young talent to innovate responsibly. Educational initiatives and mentorship programs can now be further developed to cultivate this spirit, ensuring that the next wave of designers is equipped with the knowledge and tools to create in an environmentally conscious manner.
As we celebrate this remarkable achievement, it is essential for the global fashion community to rally behind the message of sustainability that Lagos Fashion Week embodies. The win at the Earthshot Prize should serve as a catalyst for industry-wide change, urging brands, retailers, and consumers to embrace sustainable practices. By supporting eco-friendly initiatives and prioritising ethical fashion, we can collectively work towards a more sustainable future.
Lagos Fashion Week’s victory at the Earthshot Prize 2025 marks a transformative moment in the fashion industry. It celebrates not only the rich heritage of African fashion but also sets a precedent for sustainability as a core value. As Omoyemi Akerele aptly stated, the fashion industry holds the potential to create jobs and preserve culture while transforming lives. As we move forward, let us take inspiration from this achievement and continue to advocate for a fashion industry that respects and nurtures our planet. This win is not just for Lagos; it is a victory for the global movement towards a more sustainable, ethical, and inclusive future in fashion.
Read more: https://earthshotprize.org/winners-finalists/lagos-fashion-week/
