A celebration of power, creativity and vision shaping today’s Africa. This issue uncovers the innovators, dreamers and cultural architects redefining what excellence looks like in Africa.
In 2025, this year's theme was inspired by the book Slaves to Fashion: Black Dandyism and the Styling of Black Diasporic Identity, penned by Monica L Miller in 2009. What then is Black Dandyism? Again we're tutoring you, buckle up! Black dandyism is a cultural and fashion movement where Black individuals use style and clothing, rooted in European dandyism, as a means of self-expression and resistance against societal constraints.
Emerging after Emancipation and gaining momentum during the Harlem Renaissance, this movement allows Black people to assert their identity, power, and creativity. At its core, it is about more than just mere aesthetics. It's a way for Black individuals to defy racial and class boundaries that have historically marginalised them. Through embracing elegance, refinement, and distinctive forms of expression, Black dandies challenge societal norms and expectations, showcasing their unique style and cultural heritage.
At its core, it is about more than just mere aesthetics. It's a way for Black individuals to defy racial and class boundaries that have historically marginalised them. Through embracing elegance, refinement, and distinctive forms of expression, Black dandies challenge societal norms and expectations, showcasing their unique style and cultural heritage.
Let's now take a trip back to our motherland, Zimbabwe. What can local designers and fashion brands learn from America's biggest night of fashion?
Not only is the Gala meant for fashion designers and brands, but it is one point where politicians, musicians, art lovers, creatives, promoters, film stars and makers, and sports personalities can gather under one roof for a good cause. The event, which is strictly by invitation, with at least a guest list of about 400 people and a ticket fetching US$ 75,000 this year, imagine how much that will do for our very own Zimbabwean sector.