This August, London played host to the 15th Edition of Africa Fashion Week London, a spectacular two-day celebration of African creativity and heritage.
Held at Space House, London, England, the event brought together designers, models and fashion enthusiasts from across the continent, cementing its reputation as the world’s longest-running showcase dedicated to African and African-inspired fashion. This year’s theme was; Co-create, Collaborate, Elevate and Celebrate.
For Kenya, this year’s edition was a proud moment on the global stage. Under the British Council’s Creative DNA initiative, three Kenyan brands; Sevaria by Jamie Bryan Kimani, Epica Jewellery by Sharon Wendo and Kisero Nairobi by Kevin Abwova, stood out for their culturally grounded creations.
Sevaria attracted attention with its striking unisex designs, which combined sustainable materials with textiles inspired by the Maasai to create a contemporary, environmentally friendly edge.
By combining traditional Maasai beadwork with modern design, Epica Jewellery introduced a little bit of Nairobi’s artistic flair to London. Each handcrafted piece carries the weight of culture and history. Father-son leather brand Kisero Nairobi combined Nairobi’s history with modern, international appeal, showcasing flawless handcrafted skill.
Conversations continued through the event as designers, industry professionals and audiences gathered for illuminating panel talks on reimagining the “Made in Africa” narrative, the impact of AI on design, sustainability and direct-to-consumer business strategies.
These discussions positioned fashion as a force for ethical innovation and cultural redefinition in addition to being an aesthetic effort.
The event was not just about clothes, but also a multi-sensory celebration. From the energy of the runway to the bustling exhibition hall, the air was alive with music, conversations and creativity.
Global Kenyan names like Malaika Firth, alongside the talented designers attended the event. Whether in the front row or the runway, the presence of Kenyan fashion icons were a striking symbol of the nation’s growing influence in international style circles.
As the lights dimmed on AFWL 2025, one thing was clear; this was more than a fashion showcase, it was a bridge between culture, a platform for collaboration and a reminder that Kenya’s creative voice is resonating far beyond its borders.
For Nairobi’s fashion community, the event was both a celebration and a challenge, to keep building, innovating and claiming space on the global stage.
The next chapter of this story might see even more Kenyan names, not just participating but also leading the charge in shaping the future of African fashion. Fiona Muthoni, TV 47
