……   Top Designers to Watch 

By Yemisi Suleiman 

The countdown is on! In less than two weeks, Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) marks its 15th anniversary with a bold celebration of African fashion, culture, and innovation. Happening August 9–10, 2025, at the iconic Space House in London, AFWL returns bigger and better,  with electrifying runway shows, 50+ fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands, and thought-provoking panels redefining the future of African style.

Spanning from established heritage labels to daring emerging talents, Africa Fashion Week London 2025 is set to showcase the brilliance, impact, and creativity of African fashion. Featuring a vibrant lineup of designers from across the continent alongside engaging experiences, this event is essential for fashion enthusiasts and cultural influencers worldwide.

Highlighting everything from show-stopping couture, contemporary classics to modern streetwear, here are the top designers set to light up the AFWL 2025 runway:

Ejiro Amos Tafiri (Nigeria)

Known for her timeless garments and masterful fusion of African heritage with modern design,  Ejiro Amos Tafiri, one of Nigeria’s Finest, continues to set a benchmark for elegance rooted in identity. With a focus on sustainability, craftsmanship, and cultural expression, her pieces are a celebration of femininity and form.

Mary Martin London (UK/Ghana)

Turning fashion into theatre and garments into sculpture, Mary Martin is a true creative force. Her collections defy convention, telling stories through dramatic silhouettes and statement-making pieces that are bold, conceptual, and unforgettable.

Princess Vogue (UK/Nigeria)

This brand seamlessly blends Nigerian culture with UK sophistication. Expect vibrant colors, eclectic cuts, and unapologetic femininity as Princess Vogue takes the runway with pieces that exude glamour and cultural pride.

ANTI (South Africa)

Bold, edgy, and unafraid to challenge the norm, ANTI represents the next wave of modern African luxury. With collections that prioritize individuality and self-expression, this South African label is pushing the boundaries of contemporary fashion.

Silvia Osawe (Italy/Nigeria)

A textile designer redefining inclusivity through fabric, Silvia Osawe draws from her Edo heritage to create pieces that reflect culture, identity, and empowerment. Her work is a colorful narrative woven through tradition and innovation.

Victoria Grace 

Deeply rooted in sustainable development and community empowerment, Victoria Grace creates women’s fashion that merges cultural storytelling with modern design. Her brand champions African craftsmanship while working towards global sustainability goals.

Zainab Olatoyinbo (Nigeria)

This brand brings confidence and bold femininity to life with edgy silhouettes and standout details. Zainab Olatoyinbo designs for the fearless modern African woman — bold, expressive, and proud of her roots.

Mumini Fashion Since 1961 (Sierra Leone)

A true heritage brand, Mumini Fashion has stood the test of time by staying authentic to its West African roots. Known for intricate embroidery, indigenous fabrics, and timeless tailoring, the brand is a tribute to African legacy and style.

Makenzy Creations (Africa)

A rising star in Afrocentric wear, Makenzy Creations crafts wearable art using batik, handwoven fabrics, and embroidery. Their designs are rich in color and texture — perfect for summer wardrobes and beachside elegance.

Heem Walker (Nigeria)

Redefining African luxury footwear, Heem Walker is the go-to for handcrafted leather shoes that draw inspiration from Nigerian traditions while offering contemporary comfort and sophistication.

David Wej (UK/Nigeria)

For the modern African gentleman, David Wej delivers razor-cut jacquard suits, crisp classics, and statement accessories. His menswear label has become synonymous with sharp, quiet power and sartorial confidence.

Event Highlights Beyond the Runway

AFWL 2025 offers more than just fashion:

• Adire Festival – A fresh take on traditional Yoruba textile art.
• Tribute to African Fashion Icons – Honoring pioneers who’ve shaped the industry.
• Industry Panels – Covering topics like AI in design, sustainability, and redefining “Made in Africa.”
• Creative DNA Showcase – Spotlighting emerging talents from Ethiopia, Ghana, Uganda, Kenya, and Nigeria.
• Special Partnership with Disney’s The Lion King – A powerful fusion of music, culture, and fashion on the runway.