On Thursday, December 5, the Turkish Embassy played host to the first part of the highly anticipated Young Designers Showcase at Dakar Fashion Week 2024. The evening was a celebration of raw talent and bold vision, as five emerging designers made their runway debuts, unveiling collections that were not only a testament to African creativity but also to the power of innovation. Guests were swept into a vibrant world of fashion excellence, followed by a lively cocktail reception where they connected with the designers, reveling in the dynamic spirit of Dakar’s ever-evolving fashion scene.
Izö opened the show with a collection that challenged every expectation—blazers with exaggerated shoulders, rock-inspired silhouettes, and pieces that exuded both strength and elegance. Abdou Ndaw, the creative force behind the brand, brings nearly a decade of experience in fashion merchandising to his work, offering a collection that redefines unisex fashion. With sleek tailoring, vegan leather, vinyl jackets, and sporty chic nylon sets, Izö pushes boundaries while embracing inclusivity and individuality. Abdou’s designs blend modernity with tradition, inspired by rock attire and his Senegalese heritage. The result is minimalist yet bold suits with a subtle touch of African roots.
“This collection is a blend of modernity and tradition. I was inspired by rock attire and tailored suits, with a subtle nod to my Senegalese roots,” Abdou shared. For him, Izö is not merely about fashion—it is about empowering self-expression through design that challenges the status quo.
Jeyna A’s collection was a seamless fusion of Senegalese tradition and contemporary style, a tribute to the elegance, strength, and pride of the modern African woman. Raised in Senegal, Jeyna draws deeply from her cultural heritage, crafting designs that celebrate vibrant colors, original cuts, and luxurious fabrics. Her pieces, with their flowing silhouettes and impeccable tailoring, evoke a regal elegance—a perfect balance of modern and traditional aesthetics. The use of brocade fabric, intricate embroidery techniques, and masterful color pairings elevate each design, highlighting the craftsmanship and attention to detail that defines her work.
“Since childhood, I’ve been passionate about fashion. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I had the time to explore my design ideas, and this collection is the result—pieces that honor my heritage while celebrating modern style,” Jeyna A explained. Her designs are the perfect reflection of Senegalese elegance, exuding both tradition and contemporary sophistication.
Three-Di is a family affair, led by Dior and her brother Cheick, that stands at the intersection of African culture and modern fashion. Known for its bold prints, oversized embellishments, and dramatic textures, the brand reinterprets Africa’s “excess” into modern, wearable art. Three-Di’s collection brings together the vibrant, maximalist spirit of African heritage and contemporary design, making it clear that fashion can be both a statement of identity and a universal language.
“The brand is a family affair. My brother and I draw from our African culture to create something modern and wearable,” Dior shared. Three-Di’s collection is more than fashion—it is a celebration of African creativity and the power of culture to shape global trends.
Mida Style is not just a fashion brand; it is a narrative woven from the threads of tradition, sustainability, and cultural pride. Designer Madi, using locally sourced Malian textiles like bogolan and cotton veils, honors the craftsmanship of his Tuareg and Malian roots while empowering local artisans. His designs bridge the gap between tradition and modernity, blending exceptional craftsmanship with a commitment to eco-responsibility. Each piece tells a story through intricate patterns that symbolize tribal identity, offering a visual narrative of history, resilience, and cultural pride.
“Each piece I create is a journey—from harvesting the fibers to dyeing, weaving, and designing patterns. It’s my way of connecting to my heritage and honoring the traditions of my people,” Madi said. Mida Style’s commitment to sustainability and cultural storytelling makes it a standout in fashion, offering pieces that celebrate both heritage and eco-conscious design.
Téfatou’s collection was a moment of pure magic. The designer’s mastery of fabric transformation was evident in the ethereal gowns, where tulle met Bazin fabric in a delicate dance of strength and softness. Téfatou’s journey—starting with t-shirt designs in Marseilles and evolving into the art of tailoring tulle and traditional African fabrics—culminates in a collection that celebrates femininity in all its forms: elegant, strong, and timeless.
“Mixing tulle with Bazin fabric creates an improbable, yet perfect match. The fragility of tulle combined with the strength of Bazin reflects the balance of femininity—soft, yet strong,” Téfatou shared. Her designs are a testament to the power of fabric, elegance, and craftsmanship, offering a celebration of beauty that is both modern and deeply rooted in tradition.
These five designers are not just shaping the future of African fashion—they are rewriting the narrative. Their collections are a reflection of the richness of their heritage, the boldness of their vision, and the power of self-expression. At Dakar Fashion Week 2024, one thing was abundantly clear: the future of fashion is here, and it is vibrant, bold, and unmistakably African. These designers have made their mark, not just on the runway, but on the world stage, proving that African creativity knows no bounds.
Keywords: #DakarFashionWeek #YoungDesigners #AfricanFashion #Sustainability #CulturalHeritage #FashionInnovation
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Oury Sene is a seasoned writer and communications specialist with over eight years of experience in development and humanitarian fields. Her work spans various high-profile organizations, including the African Union, UNICEF, and myAgro. At Guzangs, Oury brings her passion for storytelling and deep connection to the African fashion and arts scene, focusing on elevating diverse voices and narratives. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring the intersections of culture, fashion, and social change. Her motto is: Style with purpose, live with intention.
Follow her on Instagram: @ceedalstudio
