With just three months left to the illustrious Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) 2023, the excitement is already in the air. This year, the event is expected to kick-start a fashion revolution, converging creative minds, fashion enthusiasts, and potential sponsors on a single platform. From the 27th to 29th October, the fashion world will be watching as top and emerging designers showcase their African-inspired designs.
The AFWL, now in its 13th edition, is set to feature a thrilling lineup of activities, making it Europe’s largest annual fashion event profiling African designers. With a projected daily turnout of 2000 visitors, and ticket prices starting from £10, the stage is set for an unforgettable fashion fiesta.
The event will open with the International Trade Expo, an excellent opportunity for African startups to connect with key UK and European business communities, government officials, investors, and other stakeholders. The expo will be filled with various activities, including trade and investment opportunities, B2B, G2G, and G2B.
Following the expo, the event will host captivating catwalk shows on the 28th and 29th October 2023. These shows will provide a platform for designers to showcase their creativity and innovation in front of a global audience. It is also set to take place during the Black History Month in the UK, adding a rich historical context to the event.
Exhibition stands at the event will be packed with over 100 brands presenting their products to the general public. Visitors can expect a variety of African-inspired apparels from over 26 African countries, including the African diaspora. The event will also feature a special display of hair and beauty accessories, footwear, and much more.
A unique feature of the 2023 AFWL is the Adire Pavilion. Adire, an indigo-dyed hand-decorated cloth, utilizes various resist-dying techniques to create striking patterns. The Adire Oodua Textile Training Hub will conduct workshops at the pavilion, focusing on women’s empowerment and entrepreneurship programs.
In addition to the fashion events, AFWL 2023 will feature thought-provoking presentations and panel discussions on sustainable fashion, upcycling, and recycling. The seminars will feature high-profile guests, including past speakers from the Ethical Fashion Initiative, the V&A Museum, and Greater London Authority.
The event will be brought to a close with a prestigious Royal Give Back Gala Dinner & Award on the final day. The gala’s noble objective is to empower and support orphaned individuals in the realms of fashion education, focusing on mentorship, sustainability, and education.
In a bid to create a holistic and inclusive event, AFWL is offering diverse sponsorship opportunities, including headline sponsor, creative talks forum, workshops sponsor, category sponsorships, hair and beauty sponsorship, and more. Sponsors will gain brand visibility, access to new markets, and opportunities for talent scouting.
Sponsoring AFWL not only amplifies brand profiles but also supports real social change in Black & African creative communities. It will inspire designers and visitors to participate in social change for a more sustainable lifestyle, while providing unique hospitality opportunities for clients and staff. Major overseas promotion is also part of the package, with AFWL covered by major media outlets in Africa.
The countdown to the much-anticipated AFWL 2023 has begun. To showcase or exhibit, designers can reach out to [email protected]. For sponsorship and partnership opportunities, interested parties can contact [email protected].
AFWL is an event that embodies the rich tapestry of Africa, its vibrant cultures, and its creative spirit. It provides a platform for African talent to be seen, heard, and celebrated on a global stage. This year’s AFWL promises to be an inspiring, innovative, and ground-breaking event. Are you ready?
For more information, visit www.africafashionweeklondonuk.com.
