Fashion has been a creative form of expression for human cultures for thousands of years. The earliest forms of ‘fashion’ were designed primarily to protect humans against the elements, but it has long evolved to become an expression of culture, power, style, beliefs, and values. This evolution has been influenced by human technological development characterized by the development of textiles from natural fibres then to synthetic fibres. The recognition of the story of the evolution of fashion, its significance to humans, and its impact on their environment form the basis for this show.
The show activities usually includes picking up trash along the beachfront, a red carpet walk, presentations on the contribution of the fashion industry to marine plastic pollution, a competitive fashion show showcasing exclusively designs from waste plastics-based fabrics, a visit to partner stands, networking and music.
Sustainable fashion is not a new concept, and neither does shows showcasing designs from eco-friendly fabrics. However, the Afro-Sustainable Fashion Show is the first of its kind that exclusively showcases designs from waste plastic fabric pieces. It aims to draw attention to the fact that the fashion industry is currently contributing more than a third of the microplastics found in our oceans. Apart from raising awareness among African fashion enthusiasts, the show will also demonstrate the creativity of African designers in producing designs from waste plastic fabrics that they would otherwise dispose of into the environment.
The show is organised by Catharina Natang as part of the project “Reducing Plastic-based Fabrics in Local Fashion Design: A Training-Empowerment-Promotion (TEP) Model.” The project provided training in Sustainable Fashion to designers including capacity building for economic empowerment. The show which is also supported by the Afro-Sustainable Fashion Initiative is sponsored by the Afri-Plastics Challenge.
Fashion with a Purpose: Afro-SFI Presents the first edition of the Sustainable Fashion Street Show, Embracing Culture and Sustainability! (29th July 2024)
The event taking place at Buea, Cameroon, will include activities that promote sustainable fashion. Learn more about the show and register.
