Written in Partnership with Martha Vortex
The fashion industry, long dominated by powerhouses in the United States, Italy, and France, is experiencing a seismic shift towards a more global and inclusive landscape. The recent BRICS+ Fashion Summit has shed light on the undeniable talent and creativity emerging from countries outside of the conventional fashion capitals.
Designers from Argentina, Ethiopia, China, India, South Africa, Egypt, and Brazil captivated audiences with their distinct perspectives and innovative collections. Juan Hernandez Daels, an Argentine-Belgian designer, mesmerized attendees with his fusion of refined European couture and sensual Argentine identity. Kunjina Tesfaye, an Ethiopian designer, showcased feminine silhouettes that celebrated the beauty of the female form, juxtaposing them with industrial-style suits.
CHNNYU, a Chinese designer, took a fresh approach by infusing classic silhouettes with trendy colors, prints, and textures. Ritesh Kumar, an Indian designer skilled in blending traditional elements with modern trends, offered a reflection of the rich and vibrant Indian fashion scene. David Tlale, hailing from South Africa, wowed audiences with flamboyant prints and audacious cuts in both womenswear and menswear collections.
Fashion designer Alena Akhmadullina showcased a collection of denim and fancy dresses with sophisticated drapes and elements, creating a sparkling game of bold shapes and unexpected styles. Serbian brand Batakovic Belgrade presented modern women with relaxed fit pants suits, base shirts, and dramatic all-black looks, highlighting self-confidence and desirability.
Drawing inspiration from their rich heritage, Hany El Behairy Haute Couture from Egypt presented breathtaking dresses adorned with intricate crystal and feather embroideries. Brazil’s Lucas Leão demonstrated his mastery of architectural shapes, showcasing minimalist garments in monochrome palettes that evoked sculptural forms.
It is evident that the BRICS+ Fashion Summit is reshaping the narrative of the global fashion industry. By providing a platform for these diverse designers, the summit showcases the breadth of talent and authenticity. As these designers continue to gain recognition and create boundary-pushing collections, the fashion industry as a whole becomes more inclusive, diverse, and exciting.
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