FIT’s First Ever Global Fashion Show did not disappoint! Mataano opened the show. Mataano, which translates as “twins” in Somali, was founded in 2008 by identical Somalian twins Ayaan and Idyl Mohallim. The twins, having fled their native Somalia when they were 9 to escape the country’s civil war, relocated to Washington D.C. and completed their education at the University of Michigan and Boston University, respectively. The twins aimed to stand out from the rest of the world of fashion and design. They experienced the industry from the ground up, through careful study and practice. Oprah Winfrey, the queen of daytime TV if there ever was, invited the twins on her “Young Millionaire Moguls” show in October 2008. Oprah lauded the twins for their inspiring story and much deserved success, and introduced them to a national stage as an emerging brand with a rich cultural heritage. You can see their cultural heritage throughout each meticulously designed piece. See their amazing collection at www.mataano.com.
The second collection featured my friend, designer Louda Larrain. The Louda Collection consists of fashions created by Louda using her own hand-made fabrics and embroideries. She works on each one as if it was a painting. She takes her time creating and giving life to each of these exquisite creatures. Louda came to Paris from Moscow in 1996. She arrived full of ideas and with a few of her hand made textile swatches. Miracles then ensued. Karl Lagerfeld went crazy over her fabrics. Chanel Couture was her first client. She has had artistic collaborations with Christian Dior, Christian Lacroix, Thierry Mugler, Emanuel Ungaro and many others. Her foray into America began while she was wearing one of her jackets while shopping at Bergdorf Goodman. They noticed and began buying her clothes. As did Neiman Marcus. Making her home in NYC since 2006, she continues to be inspired and create fabrics and designs. You can see her work in NYC’s Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Temple of Dendur exhibit as well as www.loudacollection.com.
The Kondakis collection came next. The collection consists of creations by Nike Kondakis, which she “re- designs” by creating garments from recycled parachutes and accessories from dead wood and found objects using her artistic passion for fashion. Nike Kondakis, who is Greek and Danish, grew up in Europe. She joined the KaosPilots in Denmark, which is a 3 year program in responsible entrepreneurship. She now lives in Kenya where she puts her background in art, design and responsible entrepreneurship to good use. In addition to creating designs that can be worn in multiple ways, she set up a development project, The Lorika Foundation, for 30,000 Maasais in the Kenyan bush. The project is now run by local manager, but Nike herself still contributes to the education of Massai girls. See her stunning creations at www.kondakis.biz/#.
The next collection came from Anna Getaneh, African Mosaique. Swedish born, with her roots from Ethiopia, Anna Getaneh first found success as a model. She worked with top designers such as Ralph Lauren, Donna Karan and Escada. She has graced many a catwalk in fashion capitals like Paris, Milan and New York. It was during her modeling years that she noticed how under-represented African designers were and felt compelled to do something about it. She founded African Mosaique – a high-end South African based fashion house that specializes in the design and manufacture of Africa-inspired clothing and accessories in 2004. African Mosaique is a collection of celebration, imagination, and is as warm and colorful as the kaleidoscopic, diverse and unique landscapes as well as the rich heritage of Africa itself. Since its launch, African Mosaique has been a truly positive force in the African fashion industry and Anna, in addition to running her successful company, spends a lot of time supporting various projects aimed at supporting the budding fashion designers across the continent, making it a unique African Luxury Brand. To view her wonderful collection, see www.africanmosaique.com.
South African born Thula Sindi showcased his collection next. He studied in Johannesburg as well and London, and made his debut as the head designer of the Dutch textile company, Vlisco. Creating his own line, he creates exquisite and delicately crafted masterpieces. The South African Fashion Industry describes the designs by Thula as “A tale told in the clothes as languishing luxury, love and a little lavishness. Taking you into a magical fantasy and capturing your imagination.”
From South Africa, we jump to Haitian born, and Massachusetts College of Arts and Design educated Prajje Jean- Bapiste, and his Prajje 1983 collection. In just a few years, he has become one of Boston’s most promising young designers. His inspiration? His grandmother! Since he was young, his grandmother’s style and grace has influenced him. As a child he remembers seeing her dressed to go to church. Pencil skirt, Chanel-like jacket, stilettos, long gloves and a clutch purse. His grandmothers’ philosophy was “it don’t matter how hard times are, you always have to leave your house looking presentable. ‘To leave your home looking bad is a crime!” Prajje’s designs are quickly gaining recognition as the work of a hip young fashion designer with exquisite craftsmanship. His gowns are unique and luxuriously realized. His designs are instantly recognizable yet befitting the individuality of the woman who wears them. His line is inspired and drawn from the majestic and artistic cultural elements from his native Haiti. He wants you to be inspired the colorful and spirited soulfulness of their culture. His grandmother would be proud!
Our next collection comes from Amparo Chorda. Amparo comes from Valencia, Spain. She is a perfectionist to the extreme and has given herself entirely to her profession. This European designer has distinguished herself in a long career, both in the fashion world, designing custom couture for a selected clientele, and along with costumes in theater and television. Her designs are directed to highlight the body of sophisticated and glamorous women. Luxury and modernity are constant in her creations. Her designs are free and innovative; a celebration of the eternal feminine elegance and style.
Rounding out our very talented global designers was South African David Tlale. David’s designs are both daring and dynamic, and yet manage to be young, bold and elegant. He impenitently employees unpredictable use and understanding of fabric, color and texture. In 2008 David received many accolades, awards and nominations at the annual South African Style Awards, Mzansi Star Awards, and Mercedes Benz Fashion Awards. He has also been chosen to be an ambassador for the Change-4-Ever Campaign which aims to alleviate poverty in Sothern Africa. He is extremely hands –on in this program. He prefers to spend time with people, rather than donating a dress to be sold at auction. “Charity does not improve people’s lives. Development programs impart skills, get kids to school and teach them how to sustain themselves.” David’s designs embody beauty without pretense.
It was a very successful first show! Congratulations to all of the designers! And 100% of the proceeds after expenses were donated to The Bisila Bokoko African Literacy Project (www.bbalp.org). Bisila Bokoko ‘s mission is to promote literacy among the African people by building well equipped, modern and sustainable efficient libraries with the aim to bring the gift of ideas and education in Africa. There is no better start in life than having a great education. One of the greatest gifts that one can give a child is an education.
Again thank you to all of the designers for unselfishly sharing their designs with us! And here is to the continued success of the Bisila Bokoko African Literacy Project!
