Photo: AP/EFP
Lagos is usually the home for Arise Fashion Week but there was a slight difference this year. As part of Nigeria’s Day at the ongoing Dubai Expo 2020, the show was transported to the tourist’s playground, alongside a bevy of Nigerian designers and their muses, who showcased their latest collections in front of the socially-distanced audience.
Set on Friday at the center of Dubai downtown in Armani Hotels, where the iconic Burj Khalifa is standing tall, the show started at 9pm and ended at 11:30pm. In the space of 2-hours and 30 minutes, guests were treated to a spectacular display of fashion created by some of Nigeria’s most celebrated designers, which includes Lisa Folawiyo, Ituen Basi, Keneth Ize, Huddaya, Odio Mimonet, Lanre Da Silva, Tzar Studios, Onalaja, Banke Kuku, Tj Who, and others.
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Opening the one-night show was none other than Naomi Campbell who stomped the catwalk wearing a stunning design by Abuja-based label, Huddaya. As the original supermodel that she is, Naomi wowed the audience as she sashayed down the runway in a royal blue number. The look comprised of a robe dress and pants which the British supermodel teamed with a pair of peep-toe heel sandals. Her long, straight hair also made a remarkable addition to the entire look as it continued to swing left and right.
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Photo: Getty Images She also walked for Banke Kuku wearing a beautiful lounge dress from the brand, as well as Keneth Ize’s patterned dress.
Dailymail/EPA There was also an exciting music performance by Wizkid who charged the audience to Afropop and Afrobeat music.
Speaking about the show, the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, who represented the Nigerian president, said by hosting AFW in Dubai, the organizers were showcasing Nigerian fashion to the world.
“I’m very glad to be here to witness another landmark achievement for the country: the first ARISE Fashion Week in Dubai. A city described as the Jewel of the Middle East where the best of Nigeria’s fashion and entertainment have come out in full force to celebrate our great country on this day that marks Nigeria’s Day at the Dubai Expo 2020,” Adebayo said in a statement.
