26 Jul 2020

After putting on hold this year’s fashion show due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fashion Without Borders Africa (FWBA) event organisers have reviewed their concept by hosting the fashion show via a digital platform in September this year.

Co-organiser of the FWBA Tebo Bakwena-Kabisoso told BOPA in an interview that this year’s  fashion show would have a different twist as organizers had come up with new ways of showcasing designers’ collections.

She said they had opted for a digital event termed ‘phygital’, physical space and digital technologies which would replace big production catwalks and presentations.

“The occasion centres around the theme: Fashion Unites, and it entails social media streamed edition of a runway and a fashion master class resembling a high-fashion runway show entirely from home or designers desired locations,” she said.

Bakwena-Kabisoso further said the behind the scenes would give a glimpse of top local designers and make-up artists giving tutorials on season trends.

“The event will be shot over a number of days keeping in mind the COVID-19 protocols. Even designers based outside the country will have a unique opportunity to be part of the event,” she said.

She further highlighted that the event would be premiered over three days on social media platforms both for FWBA and that of sponsors while only 75 people would be allowed to physically attend the event.

She said there would also be an opportunity to host a fashion exhibition for designers who premiered on the digital experience.

Further, Bakwena-Kabisoso said the pandemic had taught them the importance of adapting to the ever-changing times as the fashion industry.

“The digital experience will be an aspect that we will carry us forth into the future and we will always have to come up with creative ways to reach the market,” she said.

Designers who were  to showcase in April included Danlu Amore, Kanyo M, Millinery Miller, Lenita Designs, Just Grip Designs and Versatile Creations.

Established in 2014, Fashion Without Borders Africa is a fashion runway that showcases the authentic African spirit and dispel clichés about what African style is through Africa’s esteemed designers. ENDS