ARISE Promise of Africa Collection: I’m Single, I Can Adore Four Guys
September 30, 2009 by gabriellenp
Filed under Fashion, Featured
The last show to wrap up my Friday of bliss was the ARISE Promise of Africa Collection. Based off my itinerary sheet, I did not know what to expect and was slightly confused. While sipping on a martini in the lounge, I flipped through ARISE Magazine. I asked myself: “Why have I not seen this amazing publication?” Fast forward into the show; at the seats were the collection lineup sheets that stated that ARISE is “the first global style and culture magazine to celebrate African achievement in the realms of fashion, music, culture, business, and polity.” Now, back to the point where I was confused and waiting in line for entry into the show, I could not help but to overhear how Grace Jones graced the catwalk in last season’s show. Hearing that news only fed into my excitement!
As I enter the Promenade for the show, I began to get that school girl crush grin on my face as usually happens when I first enter a show. There was not an empty seat in the tent, which made me feel even more like a rare gem. The tent was dimly lit with forest green lights with shadows in the shapes of tropical tree leaves. Thunder, birds, drums, and rainstorm sound effects accompanied sporadic flashes of merlot red spotlights. My confusion quickly turned into enlightenment when I realized that the show was comprised of four leading designers out of Africa. As a matter of fact, the four designers were winners of the ARISE Fashion Awards. I suddenly had another relationship epiphany while anxiously waiting in my seat. This collection is like being single and able to like whoever you want and whenever you want. Rather, you like four different guys and they all have distinct differences that you love. Therefore, to keep your mind at ease, you keep it at a friendship so that you can choose one that fits your feeling and mood for the day. Yea, it’s just that simple and terrific. Lights twinkle off. a split screen reveals the catwalk entrance and the momentous show begins.
Jewel by Lisa:
Lisa Folawiyo is the mastermind behind Jewel by Lisa. The inspiration for her spring/summer 2010 collection is “afro-chic in the city,” as described in the inspiration line up sheet. The excellent blend of tough girl leather and girly-girl patterned dresses kicked off the show just right.
- Photo Credits: Samuel C. Perry
Key Notes:
- Batik-inspired silk prints
- Sequins and tassle details
- HOT cut-out dress
- Surprising poppy lipstick
- Maxi dress with peasant hem
- Classic shift dresses
- A touch of red skinny belts
- Skinny pants <Definitely a staple to have year round!>
Tiffany Amber:
Thrill! Why? The inspiration of the Tiffany Amber Spring/Summer 2010 collection is based off Diana Ross in the 1974 Motown hit, Mahogany. How unique! Folake Folarin-Coker is the standout designer of Tiffany Amber. The collection was the “S.” Sophisticated. Metallic detail, abstract prints, pops of bold colors, flirty chiffon makes Folake’s designes a breeze to fall for.
- Photo Credits: Samuel C. Perry
Key Notes:
- Foxy batwing sleeves
- Oh-so-fun chantilly lace
- Tousled hair
- Tangy orange glossy lips
- Rompers and jumpsuits
- Tassles, jewels, and silk, oh my!
- Playful metallic details
- Fond of chiffon
Eric Raisina Haute Textures:
Eric Raisina’s inspiration for his Spring/Summer 2010 collection is his place of birth, the beautiful country of Madagascar. It is no wonder that the talented designer used an intoxicating blend of colors that reflect everything from deep ocean blue to sunrise gradient shades in which he was surrounded by. I was especially awestruck when Chanel Iman strutted down the runway in a crimson fringed halter top with silk shorts and a grommet studded leather belt.
Key Notes:
- Chanel Iman
- Neon heels paired with a periwinkle dress
- Party-ready fringe details
- Yummy tie-dye
- Layered shorts (Do I see I new trend?)
- Layered pants
- Randomly welcomed crochet
David Tlale:
According to the lineup sheet, David Tlale’s Spring/Summer 2010 collection was inspired by “Africa’s rich artistic wealth.” This fabulous and glam ready-to-wear collection was full of surprises such as organza, a mixture of fringes and pleats, and Tyson Beckford. Tlale’s fun use of textures and colors made this a mesmerizing show to watch.
- Photo Credits: Samuel C. Perry
Key Notes:
- Sequins (Get ready to shine this summer)
- More tassles
- High ponytails
- Black and white color motif
- Brilliant beads
- Structured shoulders
- Pleats
In addition to now having another favorite magazine to add to my list, I now have a list of four hot designers I will wait in eager anticipation to see next season.
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