Yes I used the word “Ripped off”, from speaking to a few African Fashion Designers who have taken part in fashion shows/events and have been extremely disappointed with uncountable flaws and lack of professionalism and direction. It is therefore important to create awareness especially for emerging designers who are very vulnerable and most likely to fall into such traps of signing up to shows/events that will not bring any value to their business.  I recently spoke to an emerging African designer based here in New York who took part in a show where there was an agreement that images will be issued to designers post show, and that buyers will be present, and finally there will be an exclusive feature of their collections in a well known magazine, after 3 months trying to track down this company who were nowhere to be found. The designer stated that, she was charged a ridiculous $800 to showcase her designs, without any positive outcome or exposure. As the African Fashion Industry is expanding with sales and opportunities, African designers need to be very careful about which company or agent they collaborate with in business.

Recently I have noticed  numerous  fashion shows and exhibition attracting emerging African fashion designers to partake, designers need to research the background of these organisers to distinguish how genuine they are and also what fashion background they come from. Although I appreciate shows that are fully supporting the African fashion industry, one must be cautious of individuals or groups with no fashion insights that are organising fashion week events and shows that could potentially cost your business.

Shadders has a list of reputable Africa fashion week events from every corner of Africa and other parts of the world, for more information feel free to enquire via sending an email to admin@shadders.net

Have you ever been “Ripped off“ in this industry?  Share your positive/negative experience with taking part in fashion shows /events Here!