By Yemisi Suleiman

The Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) 2016 held at the West Hall Olympia London came to an end with designers giving us a preview of next season’s best fashion buys. There were several recurring trends that echoed on the runways as designers mixed and matched ethnic prints in different ways.  Prints popped up in trousers, jackets, dresses, skirts and, most interestingly, the elegant shirt dress with asymmetric hem, making its debut on the runway.  From sheer, flirty frocks that graced the likes of Tina Lobondi and Mustafa Hasannali to utilitarian separates, AFWL 2016 offered looks that were smart, playful and chic.

Printed Shorts

Flaunt what you have got by drawing attention to your legs with a bright, eye-catching set of printed shorts.

Graphic Prints

Prepare to go bold with patterns and prints that range from dreamy to ultra-angular on dresses and t-shirts as seen at Co Identity and Onomen.

Clashing Prints

Matching is over-rated especially when it means choosing between Signature Secret and Mcstel’s statement prints.

Lady-like Silhouettes

It’s time to act like a girl and dress like a girl in these super feminine pieces that were lavishly featured on the runway.

Neon

Bright, vivid, reflective, eye-catching colours were very popular amongst designers.

Ruffled Romance

Dresses with ruffles and frills were the most romantic on the runway. They were subtle and feminine with cascading layers, loose trim and delicate details as seen on the catwalk of Mary Martin London.

Sheer

Sheer or semi-sheer fashion remains a statement to make in 2016. Strictly for those that can dare to bare.

Tail Hems

Tail hem dresses and tops – longer at the back – were all over the runways.  They fill something between mini and maxi and exude a feminine sexiness that is not too much.

Shine On

The metallic trend got a whole new look with top flight Tanzanian designer, Mustafa Hassanali, amping up mirror metallic finishes and iridescent fabrics.

Asymmetric coat

The conservative shirtdress was reconstructed into a total statement coat with an asymmetric hem and nipped at the waist to enhance curves, as seen at Van Else. The outfit was a delight on the runway and certainly will be a big hit next season.