Binti Africa fashion show dazzles

By Carol Kezaabu

After attending so many fashion shows in Kampala over the years, they have tended to get rather predictable. But not the Binti Africa Fashion show at Open House on Buganda Road. Not only did the show start on time, at 7, the eight designers that showcased on the night dazzled.

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Evening and party wear by Clare Mullo.Photo: Mubiru Kakebe

Adela Muganga of M’Adeline, an established bridal brand opened the show with flirty strapless dresses with full skirts, and a halter neck gown with beaded detailing on the bodice. The setting was hardly glamorous, but the crop of new young designers that followed showed that they were looking to make their mark on the fashion scene.

Ozy Stylz and Twelliv fashion labels each showcased a line of jewellery, with Ozy stylz having bold statement pieces while Twelliv catered to the men.

Otakan had an African inspired yet totally modern collection of hip trendy designs in a tie & dye yellow and brown fabric. Perhaps, the biggest delight of the night was Gibbons Katule’s colourful collection of women’s trousers. The pleated, skinny-fit trousers were edgy, and Katule’s styling with simple vests and jewlery really hit the mark.

From Pank came a collection of one arm cocktail dresses and sparkly gowns in shades of green. Bambeera Couture was a fusion of African prints and draping. A velvet cut out dress opened this collection, followed by a series of draped gowns and black cocktail dresses.

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Evening outfits by Clare Mullo. PHOTO: Mubiru Kakebe

And the main event, the showstopper of the evening’s showcases was Clare Mullo of Billy Wings. Her passion of African textiles could be seen in her collection. From the bowtie and pocket hankies to the colourful fascinators and the micro miniskirts and shorts, the designs were youthful and trendy.

Another great aspect of the evening was the eclectic trio of Xabu band, three soulful ladies full of spank. The downside was perhaps the terrible sound system.

This was the first of many great events to come courtesy of Binti Africa, which means Daughter of Africa.