Today kicks off the inaugural Africa Fashion Week here in Johannesburg.

“Africa has long been a muse for the arts throughout the world, most recently in fashion, with the world’s top designers choosing to look towards African techniques, designs and materials to ensure that their collections appeal to a wider global audience. Many great international designer houses have borrowed from Africa in creating their most recent collections, including Louis Vuitton, Lanvin, Oscar de la Renta and Christian Louboutin. There appears to be a new excitement around the African aesthetic, and we believe that it is time this is displayed to the world, from the source of this inspiration.” Says Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe Chairperson, African Fashion International.

ARISE-the world’s first magazine on global African style, culture, business and politics—is proud to partner with AFI on ARISE Africa Fashion Week 2009. 

“This is Africa’s big moment. The election of U.S. President Barack Obama presents the continent and its fashion talent with a historic opportunity. First Lady Michelle Obama favors young, multicultural designers, making them overnight stars. Fashion houses in New York, London and Milan look to Africa for inspiration. 

It is African designers’ turn to shine. ARISE Africa Fashion Week is the platform on which Africa’s prodigious fashion talent can finally grab the global spotlight” says Nduka Obaigbena, Chairman and Editor In Chief, ARISE Magazine.

It’s finally here!! 51 designers over 8 days from 21 African countries, this is Arise Africa Fashion Week. Being held at the Sandton Convention Center.

Stay tuned to FashionAfrica.com as we give you the freshest/fullest news from the shows.

Have a nice weekend!

-‘Wadami.