Nairobi Fashion Week 2025 is set to return from January 29 to February 1 at the Sarit Center, as it showcases Africa’s rising stars in regenerative fashion.
This season promises groundbreaking collections that marry bold creativity with a deep-rooted commitment to environmental and social impact, highlighting a transformative approach to the continent’s fashion future.
As the global fashion industry grapples with the urgent need for sustainable practices, African designers are pioneering change by embracing the principles of regenerative fashion.
This transformative ethos goes beyond minimizing harm; it focuses on renewing and replenishing natural resources, revitalizing ecosystems, and empowering local communities through ethical production processes.
Season Seven of Nairobi Fashion Week will spotlight a dynamic roster of designers who are challenging the status quo and crafting a fashion industry defined by sustainability and innovation.
Creative Director Brian Kihindas emphasizes the event’s vision: “This theme aligns with our goal of positioning Africa as a global leader in sustainability. We aim to establish a platform that promotes sustainable designers whose work is rooted in our cultural values, celebrating organic fabrics and sustainable practices to reclaim our story.”
Kihindas highlights the rich history of African communities that have long practiced sustainable fashion by utilizing locally sourced, natural materials and traditional techniques.
“This year’s event celebrates a new era in African fashion, focusing on designers dedicated to the restoration and healing of our planet,” he adds.
“From sourcing textiles to waste disposal, these rising stars are proving Africa can lead the world in regenerative fashion with creativity and purpose woven into every piece.”
Among the featured designers are:
- LaOculta: A womenswear brand merging Kenyan and Colombian artistry, founded in 2021 by Catalina and Sofia. Dedicated to slow fashion, LaOculta collaborates with local artisans to create unique, cross-cultural pieces.
- SOKOLATA: Created in 2022 by Senegal’s Sikoti Mbaitjongue, this high-end, eco-responsible ready-to-wear brand prides itself on using natural African materials, including organic Senegalese cotton and ethically sourced West African fabrics, forging a path for a new ethical African fashion.
- Maisha By Nisria: Based in Nakuru, Kenya, this non-profit fashion studio specializes in upcycling, transforming discarded textiles into contemporary, handmade garments known for their innovation and distinctiveness.
Returning to the runway is Kenyan designer Eva Wambutu, whose silhouette-focused creations have marked her as a standout talent since her debut at Season 6.
Adding a unique flair to the event is Apar Gadek, a jewelry and accessories brand led by Shirley Anyango in collaboration with Kibera artisans.
Their pieces, crafted from materials like brass, recycled glass beads, and upcycled cow horn, tell powerful stories of heritage.
Nur M Nasria, founder of Maisha by Nisria, reflects on the evolving consumer mindset: “I believe people are slowly becoming more concerned about their garments and their origins. There’s a shift back to originality and local handmade artistry, moving away from fast fashion’s detrimental impacts. Nairobi Fashion Week is about more than beautiful clothes; it’s about telling the story of our planet and its people.”