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Published
Jan 15, 2016
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The colours of Africa shine on Pitti Uomo

Published
Jan 15, 2016

In front of the Dogana, Florence's ancient customs warehouse, a few African street hawkers are trying to sell umbrellas. A gloomy drizzle is falling and passers-by are busy and indifferent.

Africa is on show at Pitti Uomo - Pitti Immagine


Paradoxically, just behind the enclosure, three asylum seekers from Mali, who may have been their comrades in exile, will find themselves under the spotlights, come show-time. They have been chosen by an Italian cooperative, specialising in receiving migrants, for the catwalk show in the 'Generation Africa' event.

After the success of last June's initiative, Pitti Uomo is hosting and promoting for the second season the 'Generation Africa' show, organised by Ethical Fashion Initiative. This programme is assisted by the UN and the World Trade Organization, and encourages the artisanal manufacture of accessories and fabrics in Africa, as well as supporting local designers.

"This collaboration with Pitti Immagine is a way of highlighting African creativity. We wish to transmit a different image of this continent, consisting of innovation and diversity, and filled with a powerful, positive energy," said Simone Cipriani, director and founder of Itc Ethical Fashion Initiative.

A style by Ikiré Jones - Pitti Immagine


The four brands that have been selected, Akjp, Ikiré Jones, Lukhanyo Mdinigi x Nicholas Coutts and U.Mi-1, coming from Nigeria and South Africa, managed to offer an interesting insight on this lively creative potential, using local weaving techniques, original cuts and, especially, African prints and fabrics.

"Some of these are established brands, already available in Europe. At the first edition in June, they were noticed by Japanese and US buyers," stated Simone Cipriani.


 

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