Fashion with a noble cause

By WAMBUI THIMBA

The Festival for African Fashion and Arts (FAFA) was set-up in 2008 after the post-election violence that disrupted peace in Kenya. As many countries throughout the region continue to experience human rights abuse, civil unrest and war, FAFA’s main aim is to change perceptions and the mind of communities by exploring and bridging cultures through fashion, art and music.

Canary yellow halter maxi dress with corsage ruffle detail.

FAFA also looks at promoting ethical fashion, which currently happens to be one of the fastest growing trends within the global fashion industry. It involves key areas such as recycling, sourcing organic materials, applying fair trade principles and packaging them in fashionable packages that are appealing to consumers.

Last Saturday, FAFA held its Emerging Designer Competition, which aimed at attracting a wide range of enthusiasts to showcase their finest works. Seventeen creative finalists competed for the title and the winner of the competition will get a chance to showcase their designs alongside Africa’s elite fashion designers during the annual FAFA Fashion For Peace Gala Night in November 17, this year. Here are a few of the many creative designs that were showcased.