The atmosphere was electric with the sounds of chatter, music, and cameras flashing; The African Fashion Week Mixer

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

It was Thursday April 20^th, 2023, and I was styled out in a gray of the shoulder wool dress, a pair of vintage Aldo stilettos, my coyote fur coat, and an attitude to carry it off. It was time to make my way down to the African Fashion Week Industry Mixer, being held at Cambria Gallery (91 Parliament Street. Toronto).

Anyone who has been to an African Fashion Week event knows that it is a grand occasion where designers, models, fashion enthusiasts, and media professionals come together to showcase the latest African fashion trends and styles in the industry.

As I entered, I was greeted by a flurry of activity, with people scurrying around, talking, and of course mingling. The atmosphere was electric with the sounds of chatter, music, and cameras flashing. The Cambria Gallery was beautifully decorated with extravagant lighting, stunning backdrops, and stylish furnishings, which added to the glamour and excitement of the event.

Tonight, was the night the face of African Fashion Week would be chosen. 25 contestants sashayed down the runway, showcasing their own individual style. The models were absolutely beautiful, and it was no wonder the audience was mesmerized by the many shades of melanin, applauding and cheering as each model walked by.

The renowned judges for the night included:

• Brenda Foreman: world renowned fashion stylist and Creative Director of AFWT
• Adomako: Toronto’s best fashion, wardrobe stylist, and personal shopper
• Catherine Addai: founder and CEO of Kaela Kay

As the models strutted their stuff, guests mingled, networked and enjoyed the refreshments. The media professionals were busy capturing the highlights of the event, conducting interviews, and posting updates on social media platforms.

The event concluded with a grand finale, where all the models took to the stage, and the judges made their decision. And the face of African Fashion Week 2023 is…

Shamelle Sutton
The beautiful, locked goddess smiled, as she accepted her newest role, one that I am sure that she will live up to.

I can’t close this story off without shouting out the event and gift sponsors:

Cena Cakes
@Cenacakes

Creates delicious custom treats and custom cakes that are crafted for your special event and are 100% NUT FREE.

Blessinglicious Restaurant
@blessinglicious_restaurant

The top Nigerian street food spot in the GTA providing: Dine-In, Take Out, Catering and Delivery

Yummalish Treats
@yummalishtreats

Toronto-based baking business that specializes in: custom cakes, cake pops and treats for all occasions. They also have a stunning line of kitchen utensils that help you bring your culinary creations to life!

I happened to get a glance of some of the gifts that were being given away by gift sponsors, and I have to admit, I was a little jealous. The generous gift sponsors included:

Fab Faces by Fiona
@fabfacesbyfionna

New Era Canada
@neweracanada

Ambition
@ambition_branded

Koko Shea
@kokoshea

Soft & Butter
@softandbutter

Kayluv Styles
@kayluvstyles

Yolo Fragrance
@yolofragrance

It is events like African Fashion Week that provide a platform for designers to showcase their creative talents, and for fashion enthusiasts to witness the latest trends and styles. Overall, the night was an unforgettable experience that left me feeling inspired; I have to start planning the outfit…