African Inspired Designs/Designers at the New York Fashion Week

Duro Olowu: We've talked about Duro Olowu in a past blog post. Olowu- Nigerian born designer showcased his autumn/winter 2011-12 collection as part of the MILK/MAC-sponsored shows and presentations at New York Fashion Week. This is the first time he is showing in New York.














Suno: The New York based label has ex-film director turned fashion designer Max Osterweis and Erin Beatty as the designers. Max Osterweis and Erin Beatty take their inspiration from Kenya. Parts of the Collection is produced in Africa. This Fall, the collection was inspired by old ladies. Michelle Obama is a fan and Esperanza Spalding wore a Suno Jacket at the Grammy's.

















Thakkoon: Thakoon Panichgul's look for Fall 2011 was a juxtaposition of  the costumes of Versailles and the clothes worn by the Massai tribe of Kenya. 























Edun: under the creative direction of Sharon Wauchob is a socially conscious clothing label founded by Ali Hewson and her U2 frontman husband, Bono.
Wachoub spent some time in Africa, in the last year recruiting craftspeople and researching factories.

 

Max Azria: Tunisian born designer Max Azria  founded the contemporary women's clothing brand BCBGMAXAZRIA. His Fall 2011 RTW collection include faux-fur pieces, and chunky knits.