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The State of East African Fashion and Sustainable Practices

PHOTO: Jolly Mutesi-Miss Rwanda 2016, Rwandaise ´s top musician The Ben, and Nigerian singer, songwriter and producer Runtown with Sherrie Silver and former model Sandrine Mucyo during The Silver Gala 2024, at Kigali Convention Center Auditorium] PHOTO: Jolly Mutesi-Miss Rwanda 2016, Rwandaise ´s top musician The Ben, and Nigerian singer, songwriter and producer Runtown with Sherrie Silver and former model Sandrine Mucyo during The Silver Gala 2024, at Kigali Convention Center Auditorium]

Who Was the Most Fashionable at the Silver Gala 2024 in Kigali?

Kigali's fashion scene reached new heights at the Silver Gala 2024, held at the Kigali Convention Center Auditorium. Organized by international choreographer Sherrie Silver, the event brought together business leaders, artists, and influencers in a dazzling display of style and creativity. With a strong emphasis on made-in-Rwanda fashion, the gala showcased the talent of local designers and the evolving sartorial tastes of Kigalians.

mutebi 2 22Kigalian showing her fashion style and creativity at The Silver Gala 2024 [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

 Setting the Stage

Sherrie Silver, known for her MTV Award-winning choreography, set the tone for the event by encouraging attendees to support local talent. "We've put together a fashion directory featuring some of our favorite formal attire designers in Rwanda," Silver announced before the gala. This initiative not only promoted Rwandan fashion but also ensured that guests would arrive in unique, locally crafted ensembles.

aba bafataga ifoto ngo badacikanwa n urwibutso 0a457Attendees were very happy to take self [Photo Credit: IGIHE]

The red carpet was a parade of elegance and innovation, with every guest posing for a picture in front of a large white banner emblazoned with "The SILVER GALA" in shining white letters. Anet Umuhire, a fashion enthusiast who attended the event, described it as "an unforgettable evening of fashion." She noted the diversity of styles, saying, "Colors were shining, some were black and white, and others were green. It was a combination of all colors, and I loved it."

sherrie silver yifotozanya na miss nishimwe naomi c7321 From left; Miss Rwanda 2020, Naomie Nishimwe with Sherrie Silver on the red carpet [Photo Credit: IGIHE]

Standout Looks of the Evening

 Sherrie Silver

The hostess herself wore multiple stunning gowns that blended traditional Rwandan motifs with contemporary design. One notable dress, created by a local designer, featured a black base with gold and beaded accents, intricate beadwork, and a flowing silhouette that captured the essence of modern African fashion.

sliver 1[Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Runtown

Nigerian artist Runtown, one of the VIP guests, opted for classic elegance in a black suit paired with a red tie and expensive black sunglasses. The 35-year-old singer, songwriter, and producer, known for hits like "Mad Over You" and "For Life," made a strong impression with his sleek ensemble.

ec1a6024 1 21521[Photo Credit: IGIHE]

Lisa Quama Darko

Ghanaian dancer Lisa Quama Darko turned heads in a vibrant collection accessorized with black and white fabrics and touches of African beads. Her green and black hairstyle perfectly complemented the outfit, balancing African heritage with cutting-edge style.

mutebi 1[Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Beth Pearcey

UK dancer Beth Pearcey brought an international flair to the event, sporting a sleek, minimalist gown in striking all-red. The dress, made by a Rwandan designer, demonstrated the versatility and global appeal of local fashion.

Screen Shot 2024 09 09 at 2.25.49 PM 1From right, UK dancer Beth Pearcey in a beautiful red dress [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Fred Swaniker

Founder of the African Leadership Group, Fred Swaniker impressed in a well-tailored suit with a white shirt and black bowtie. 

Snapinsta.app 459068273 1150401462698200 4928116226287148717 n 1080Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Jolly Mutesi

Former Miss Rwanda 2016, Joyly Mutesi, wore a stunning dress that mixed shimmering gold with various colors. At 20, Mutesi was the first beauty queen to represent Rwanda in the Miss World competition.

mutebi 2Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Masai Michael Ujiri

Toronto Raptors president Masai Michael Ujiri, known for his involvement in the Kigali BK Arena project, wore an all-gray outfit made in Africa. His monochromatic look stood out for its simplicity and elegance.

Snapinsta.app 458918102 511668391598793 3429528489481441489 n 1080Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

 Sandrine Mucyo

Former model Sandrine Mucyo captured attention in a dress created by local designer Matheo. The light green and yellow gown, adorned with a unique crown and intricate beadwork, was hailed as one of the night's top designs.

mutebi 3Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

 Bwiza Emerance

Musician Bwiza Emerance, known by her stage name Bwiza, wore a unique all-black dress with feather accents. Her creativity and style earned her the Best Dressed Award for Ladies, showcasing the talent of the Matheo clothing brand based in Kigali.

arty 8 ab050Photo Credit: IGIHE]

 The Ben

Rwandan music sensation The Ben didn't disappoint in his role as the night's musical performer. He wore a custom-made ensemble that combined a classic tuxedo silhouette with unexpected textures and patterns, showcasing the innovative spirit of Rwanda's fashion scene.

the ben

Photo Credit: IGIHE]

 Trends and Highlights

Many attendees embraced the opportunity to support local designers while making bold fashion statements. One notable trend was the use of upcycled materials, with several guests wearing outfits that incorporated recycled fabrics into high-fashion designs. This eco-conscious approach added an extra layer of meaning to the evening's fashion parade.

Snapinsta.app 458459234 1038122307964447 1649863303596535184 n 1080Fashion designer Shema Gatean and musician Kevin Kade [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Accessorizing played a crucial role in elevating many looks. Handcrafted jewelry from Rwandan artisans was prominently featured, with statement pieces adorning necks, wrists, and ears. These accessories not only completed the outfits but also highlighted the country's rich artistic heritage.

The gala's fashion wasn't limited to clothing. Innovative hairstyles and makeup looks complemented the outfits, with many attendees opting for styles that celebrated natural African beauty. Intricate braids, bold lip colors, and shimmering eye makeup were among the beauty trends that dominated the evening.

 Snapinsta.app 458738035 495995816559394 4691940822788582042 n 1080Many people attended The Silver Gala 2024 [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

 More Than Just Fashion

As the night progressed, it became clear that the Silver Gala 2024 was more than just a fashion event. It was a celebration of Rwandan creativity, a platform for local designers to showcase their talent, and a testament to the country's growing influence in the global fashion industry.

ec1a5848 d7790Rwandaise leading traditional singer and songwriter known as Intore Masamba [Photo Credit: IGIHE]

The fusion of traditional and modern elements in many outfits reflected Rwanda's current cultural moment – honoring its heritage while boldly stepping into the future. This balance was perhaps best exemplified by a group of young traditional dancers who attended in matching outfits that reimagined the traditional Rwandan imikenyero and Inshabure.

mutebi 4Children from Sherrie Silver Foundation dancing Rwanda's traditional dance [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

While the gala's primary purpose was to raise funds for the Sherrie Silver Foundation, supporting over 660 children and youth, it also succeeded in elevating Rwanda's fashion profile. The event proved that Kigali is not just embracing global fashion trends but is actively contributing to them, with local designers and fashion enthusiasts leading the charge.

 Snapinsta.app 459158800 17900716689045982 2913935374356234977 n 1080Sherrie Silver Foundation supports children from different communities in Rwanda [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

"It was clear that everyone in attendance had contributed to a spectacular showcase of style," Anet stated. "From established designers to up-and-coming creatives, from business leaders to artists, the event demonstrated that fashion in Kigali is not just about looking good – it's about making a statement, supporting local talent, and pushing the boundaries of creativity."

The Most Fashionable?

Determining the most fashionable at the Silver Gala 2024 in Kigali is a challenging task. Perhaps it wasn't any single individual, but rather the collective spirit of innovation, cultural pride, and forward-thinking style that permeated the event. As Kigali continues to establish itself as a fashion capital, events like the Silver Gala serve as a reminder of the power of fashion to unite, inspire, and transform.

dox 10 3442551725740606 2Fashion lovers and fashion enthusiasts at the Silver Gala 2024 [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

The winner of the most creative fashion designer award was Olivier Niyitanga, CEO & Founder of Tanga Designs. Fittingly, he accepted the award in a striking black and white outfit, embodying the fusion of tradition and modernity that defined the evening.

Snapinsta.app 458802348 489487707281211 649522014334999269 n 1080Third from left is Olivier Niyitanga, CEO & Founder of Tanga Designs. receiving the award of the best fashion designer of the Silver Gala 2024 [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

The Silver Gala 2024 in Kigali was more than just a showcase of individual style; it was a testament to Rwanda's burgeoning fashion industry and its ability to blend cultural heritage with contemporary design. The event not only highlighted the most fashionable individuals but also celebrated the collective creativity and vision of Kigali's fashion community, solidifying the city's place on the global fashion map.

 1e5a9628 enhanced nr 516b0Media personality, MC, DJ, and journalist Makeda [Photo Credit: IGIHE]

1e5a9760 enhanced nr 0e5dfMusician Aline Sano at The Silver Gala 2024 [Photo Credit: IGIHE}

ec1a6041 13824From left, Miss Naomie Nishimwe was the MC on the red carpet Interview Sherrie Silver [Photo credit: IGIHE]

Snapinsta.app 458698232 1277427113629064 4708727613679716208 n 1080

 From left is Insh Kevin Rwandaise, a musician wearing a collection made by Izuba [Photo credit: Inyarwanda]

arty 14 1 e5329Music producer, singer, and songwriter Element Eleeeh [Photo credit: IGIHE]

ec1a5736 7f6d4 Media personality and journalist Andy Bumuntu [Photo Credit: IGIHE] 

Snapinsta.app 459029455 1531307080809630 3801090896650804778 n 1080From right is Rwandaise professional dancer Angel Karabo with Ghanaian dancer Lisa Quama [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Snapinsta.app 458765537 715574104075948 7769056013242607018 n 1080From right, Arthur Nkusi, actor, comedian, and journalist with Sherrie Silver [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Snapinsta.app 458991470 18301704832162834 8221803368147681244 n 1080From right is the former model and media personality known as Isimbi model, and her husband [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

Snapinsta.app 459002162 1549566929249545 6598176831306014360 n 1080Media personality and content digital, creator Erica Mbanda [Photo credit: Inyarwanda]

Snapinsta.app 458493218 546793181207111 7957416816341825936 n 1080Media personality and personal blogger Maddie Noella [Photo credit: Inyarwanda]

Snapinsta.app 458727873 1490087981870285 5336639112638304016 n 1080From left is Claire Akamanzi former RDB CEO, and CEO of NBA Africa, Sherrie Silver, and Founder of the African Leadership Group, Fred Swaniker [Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

GW bKGmXgAADoFsFashionable Rwanda Broadcasting Agency -RBA Journalists  during The Silver Gala 2024[Photo Credit: Inyarwanda]

dox 7 4216931725740268Very fashionable women enjoying together with Kigalians fashion lovers at The Silver Gala 2024 [Photo credit: Inyarwanda]

 Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS

Read 1559 times Last modified on Monday, 09 September 2024 17:24
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