Lagos Fashion Week recently announced that the “Woven Threads” Pop-Up at Selfridges will begin on May 9th, 2023, and last for six weeks.
This comes after the recently concluded “Woven Threads” showcase that brought together a diverse range of designers, practitioners, and stakeholders to discuss and showcase circular design practices through the work of participating designers.
This year’s theme Standing the Test of Time focuses on highlighting fashion’s longevity, resilience, and its unique ability to adapt to changing times while preserving its core values and principles. From traditional African craftsmanship to contemporary fashion design, fashion has proven its ability to evolve while retaining its essence and cultural significance.
The Lagos Fashion Week – Woven Threads pop-up in Selfridges which will be located on the third floor has been carefully curated to celebrate designers known for innovating and working closely with artisan collectives in their ecosystem.
Here are some designers showcasing: AAKS, Abiola Olusola, Andrea Iyamah, Buzigahill, Christie Brown, Eki Kere, Elexiay, Emmy Kasbit, Eva Sonaike, Kadiju, Katush, Lisa Folawiyo, NKWO, Obida, Orange Culture, Shem Paronelli, Taztopia This Is Us and TJWHO.
Positioning designers for access to market opportunities has been a key objective for Style House Files & Lagos Fashion Week since its inception as part of their continued commitment to facilitating access to market opportunities, ensuring the creative community can leverage a globalised commercial landscape through meaningful strategic partnerships and collaborations. They believe that fashion should be accessible and inclusive and are proud partners with Selfridges, a company that shares similar values and commitment to excellence.
According to Omoyemi Akerele, Founder and Executive Director of Lagos Fashion Week:
It is great to see the “Woven Threads” platform evolve in this way. Artisanal practices are not just a link to our past but a beacon for our future. They embody the spirit of creativity, craftsmanship, and community that has stood the test of time.
As the bedrock of our design process and the cornerstone of the Woven Threads exhibition, we are responsible for preserving these practices and celebrating the artisans who keep them alive. Beyond their aesthetic beauty, these practices play a crucial role in socio-economic empowerment, providing sustainable livelihoods, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering meaningful connections between people and their craft.
Lagos Fashion Week aims to lead the way with initiatives that support, strengthen and develop the fashion industry through an approach that heralds collaborations, grassroots community impact, and co-creation. Beyond the runway, the annual event provides a platform that’s gradually repositioning fashion as a useful tool for commerce and creativity in Africa.
For more information regarding Lagos Fashion Week and initiatives, visit lagosfashionweek. ng or follow their Instagram page @lagosfashionweekofficial