Can SDGs for Better Fashion Work in Africa?

The fashion industry stands as one of the largest contributors to the global climate and ecological crisis. It is nature-intensive, heavily dependent on fossil fuels, polluting throughout its value chain, and extremely wasteful. Built on a culture of overproduction and overconsumption, the industry relies on an underpaid workforce that faces discrimination, unsafe working conditions, and harassment. Recent studies indicate the industry accounts for 2-8% of global carbon emissions, with authoritative reports settling on 4%. Given its broad impact, the fashion sector intersects with numerous Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Models male African kids in a fashion shop  [ photo CreditiL KFW]

Countries worldwide have been working to help their communities understand both general fashion principles and sustainable fashion practices to protect the planet. The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative, launched in January 2018 and running until December 2030, exemplifies these efforts. Currently, the program operates in the United States, Mexico, Germany, and Brazil.

The situation in Africa presents a stark contrast. While African countries continue to receive large quantities of second-hand clothing, there's little emphasis on fashion education compared to Western nations. "We have been saying this over and over again. While other countries are teaching their children about SDGs for better fashion, some of us haven't even begun to introduce fashion into our high school curriculum," note fashion experts in the region.

Sustainable Collections by Lina Mayorga

ALSO READ: Understanding the East Africa Community Fashion Market in 2025: Who Supplies Fabrics

The environmental and social implications of fashion production and disposal make it crucial to integrate the 17 SDGs into this industry. This integration aims to create a fully sustainable model that benefits both people and ecosystems. According to initiative leaders, the primary goal is to address environmental and social issues related to clothing production and consumption through multiple strategies: implementing sustainable design practices, promoting eco-friendly technologies, improving resource management throughout the textile supply chain, developing new business models, and engaging consumers to adopt better consumption habits.

However, implementing sustainable fashion practices in Africa faces significant challenges. "Sustainable fashion requires collaboration in Africa – it's not something anyone can achieve alone. While we could introduce these concepts in our schools and communities, we consistently face budget constraints and lack specialists to design affordable curriculum," explains a fashion expert.

The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative primarily engages with university-level fashion design students, recognizing them as future market leaders. The program also works with companies through industry events, conferences, and tailored workshops, helping fashion and textile businesses align their sustainability initiatives with SDG objectives.

Sustainable collections by Lina Mayorga

Consumer engagement forms another crucial component of the program. Through public lectures and exhibitions, the initiative works to educate and influence consumer behavior, recognizing that public participation is essential for sustainable practices to succeed. The program operates under a mutual adjustment model, with staff members working interdependently and maintaining regular communication about progress and achievements.

Sustainable collection by Lina Mayorga

Fashion Trends Africa by RFS

The fashion industry stands as one of the largest contributors to the global climate and ecological crisis. It is nature-intensive, heavily dependent on fossil fuels, polluting throughout its value chain, and extremely wasteful. Built on a culture of overproduction and overconsumption, the industry relies on an underpaid workforce that faces discrimination, unsafe working conditions, and harassment. Recent studies indicate the industry accounts for 2-8% of global carbon emissions, with authoritative reports settling on 4%. Given its broad impact, the fashion sector intersects with numerous Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Models male African kids in a fashion shop  [ photo CreditiL KFW]

Countries worldwide have been working to help their communities understand both general fashion principles and sustainable fashion practices to protect the planet. The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative, launched in January 2018 and running until December 2030, exemplifies these efforts. Currently, the program operates in the United States, Mexico, Germany, and Brazil.

The situation in Africa presents a stark contrast. While African countries continue to receive large quantities of second-hand clothing, there's little emphasis on fashion education compared to Western nations. "We have been saying this over and over again. While other countries are teaching their children about SDGs for better fashion, some of us haven't even begun to introduce fashion into our high school curriculum," note fashion experts in the region.

Sustainable Collections by Lina Mayorga

ALSO READ: Understanding the East Africa Community Fashion Market in 2025: Who Supplies Fabrics

The environmental and social implications of fashion production and disposal make it crucial to integrate the 17 SDGs into this industry. This integration aims to create a fully sustainable model that benefits both people and ecosystems. According to initiative leaders, the primary goal is to address environmental and social issues related to clothing production and consumption through multiple strategies: implementing sustainable design practices, promoting eco-friendly technologies, improving resource management throughout the textile supply chain, developing new business models, and engaging consumers to adopt better consumption habits.

However, implementing sustainable fashion practices in Africa faces significant challenges. "Sustainable fashion requires collaboration in Africa – it's not something anyone can achieve alone. While we could introduce these concepts in our schools and communities, we consistently face budget constraints and lack specialists to design affordable curriculum," explains a fashion expert.

The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative primarily engages with university-level fashion design students, recognizing them as future market leaders. The program also works with companies through industry events, conferences, and tailored workshops, helping fashion and textile businesses align their sustainability initiatives with SDG objectives.

Sustainable collections by Lina Mayorga

Consumer engagement forms another crucial component of the program. Through public lectures and exhibitions, the initiative works to educate and influence consumer behavior, recognizing that public participation is essential for sustainable practices to succeed. The program operates under a mutual adjustment model, with staff members working interdependently and maintaining regular communication about progress and achievements.

Sustainable collection by Lina Mayorga

Fashion Trends Africa by RFS

Can SDGs for Better Fashion Work in Africa?

The fashion industry stands as one of the largest contributors to the global climate and ecological crisis. It is nature-intensive, heavily dependent on fossil fuels, polluting throughout its value chain, and extremely wasteful. Built on a culture of overproduction and overconsumption, the industry relies on an underpaid workforce that faces discrimination, unsafe working conditions, and harassment. Recent studies indicate the industry accounts for 2-8% of global carbon emissions, with authoritative reports settling on 4%. Given its broad impact, the fashion sector intersects with numerous Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Models male African kids in a fashion shop  [ photo CreditiL KFW]

Countries worldwide have been working to help their communities understand both general fashion principles and sustainable fashion practices to protect the planet. The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative, launched in January 2018 and running until December 2030, exemplifies these efforts. Currently, the program operates in the United States, Mexico, Germany, and Brazil.

The situation in Africa presents a stark contrast. While African countries continue to receive large quantities of second-hand clothing, there's little emphasis on fashion education compared to Western nations. "We have been saying this over and over again. While other countries are teaching their children about SDGs for better fashion, some of us haven't even begun to introduce fashion into our high school curriculum," note fashion experts in the region.

Sustainable Collections by Lina Mayorga

ALSO READ: Understanding the East Africa Community Fashion Market in 2025: Who Supplies Fabrics

The environmental and social implications of fashion production and disposal make it crucial to integrate the 17 SDGs into this industry. This integration aims to create a fully sustainable model that benefits both people and ecosystems. According to initiative leaders, the primary goal is to address environmental and social issues related to clothing production and consumption through multiple strategies: implementing sustainable design practices, promoting eco-friendly technologies, improving resource management throughout the textile supply chain, developing new business models, and engaging consumers to adopt better consumption habits.

However, implementing sustainable fashion practices in Africa faces significant challenges. "Sustainable fashion requires collaboration in Africa – it's not something anyone can achieve alone. While we could introduce these concepts in our schools and communities, we consistently face budget constraints and lack specialists to design affordable curriculum," explains a fashion expert.

The SDGs for Better Fashion initiative primarily engages with university-level fashion design students, recognizing them as future market leaders. The program also works with companies through industry events, conferences, and tailored workshops, helping fashion and textile businesses align their sustainability initiatives with SDG objectives.

Sustainable collections by Lina Mayorga

Consumer engagement forms another crucial component of the program. Through public lectures and exhibitions, the initiative works to educate and influence consumer behavior, recognizing that public participation is essential for sustainable practices to succeed. The program operates under a mutual adjustment model, with staff members working interdependently and maintaining regular communication about progress and achievements.

Sustainable collection by Lina Mayorga

Fashion Trends Africa by RFS

The Applications for the BFC Fashion Trust Grants 2025 Set to End Next Week

The British Fashion Council (BFC) announced yesterday that applications for the prestigious BFC Fashion Trust Grants 2025 will close on January 15th, 2025, at 5 PM GMT. As part of the BFC Foundation, the Fashion Trust aims to empower positive business growth through financial grants and mentoring support for emerging fashion talents in the United Kingdom.

Eligible applicants must meet several crucial criteria to be considered for the grant. First and foremost, they must operate an established designer fashion business that has been actively trading for a minimum of three years. The initiative welcomes applications from ready-to-wear collections, accessories, millinery, and jewellery designers, though bridalwear and childrenswear collections are excluded.

Companies applying must be UK-based and registered with Companies House, with the Creative Director or Designer maintaining majority ownership of at least 75%. Additionally, applicants should demonstrate a strong market presence through either a minimum of six international and UK stockists or direct-to-consumer sales. For DTC-only brands, a minimum two-year trading history via e-commerce or social media channels with annual sales exceeding £100,000 is required.

The application evaluation process focuses on several critical areas. Creative merit plays a fundamental role, with applicants needing to demonstrate a distinctive aesthetic and unique market positioning. The selection committee will also assess each brand's contribution to the UK fashion ecosystem, including how they have invested their time and resources in giving back to the industry.

Financial planning is another crucial component of the application. Candidates must present a clear vision for fund utilization, articulating how specific projects align with their broader business strategy and demonstrating potential return on investment. Project proposals should not exceed £50,000 and must be completed within a defined timeframe. Importantly, funds cannot be allocated to permanent staff salaries or ongoing expenses beyond the project duration.

Made by connerives who supported by the BFC Fashion Trust

 Sustainability commitment forms a significant evaluation criterion. Applicants must provide comprehensive statements outlining their sustainability initiatives, both current and planned. Key focus areas include decarbonization efforts, biodiversity protection, sustainable manufacturing practices, social sustainability, diversity and inclusion, circular economy principles, end-of-life considerations, and customer education on sustainability.

The BFC emphasizes transparency and fairness in the selection process. Applications will be reviewed and shortlisted by a panel of industry experts and funding representatives, with shortlisted candidates notified in March 2025. These selected applicants will then proceed to panel interviews later that month.

Made by completedworks who supported by the BFC Fashion Trust

To ensure equal opportunity and accurate impact assessment, applicants must provide information about their business, staff, and leadership demographics. The BFC assures that all submitted data will be handled confidentially and securely in accordance with their Data Policy, with any shared insights being presented only in anonymous, aggregated form.

Current first-year or second-year NEWGEN participants are ineligible for this grant, though brands in their third year of NEWGEN may apply. For non-NEWGEN brands, the three-year minimum business operation requirement remains in effect.

This highly competitive grant program represents a significant opportunity for emerging UK fashion businesses to secure both financial support and industry mentorship, contributing to the continued growth and innovation of Britain's fashion industry.

Made by emiliawickstead who supported by the BFC Fashion Trust

The BFC Fashion Trust is a British Fashion Council Foundation charitable initiative that empowers positive business growth through financial grants and mentoring. The fund is open to all ready-to-wear collections and/or accessories. Grant money should relate to a defined project that will be delivered within a set period of time, and applicants must articulate how projects align to their broader business vision and show a clear return on investment.

Since its inception in 2011, the BFC Fashion Trust has awarded almost £3 million to 57 designer businesses to promote growth and fund the implementation of practical solutions. These include long term strategic plans on topics such as merchandising, e-commerce, production, sampling, and more. 

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS

Understanding the East Africa Community Fashion Market in 2025: Who Supplies Fabrics

The East African Community (EAC) fashion market is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by a burgeoning middle class and increasing urbanization across member states. With a market value exceeding $3 billion annually and projected growth of 7-8% over the next five years, this transformation has created a dynamic ecosystem where fabric suppliers play a crucial role in supporting the region's expanding fashion industry.

The region is rapidly emerging as a global hub in garment and textile manufacturing, distinguished by its unique advantage as a cotton-growing region—a characteristic that sets it apart from established manufacturing nations like Bangladesh, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. Despite this natural advantage, most East African countries currently export their cotton lint rather than utilizing it for local production.

Made in the EAC fabric by RIVATEX [Photo Credit: NT]

Recent initiatives demonstrate a shift toward strengthening domestic production capabilities. Ethiopia approved the commercialization of Bt cotton (genetically-modified, pest-resistant cotton) in 2018, while Kenya followed suit in 2019. That same year, the EAC approved the final draft of the cotton, textile, and apparel strategy (CTA), aimed at enhancing global competitiveness and developing the entire value chain from seed production to garment manufacturing.

A woman harvesting cotton in Kenya [Photo Credit: NT]

The supplier landscape in the EAC fashion market is diverse but dominated by international players. China leads external supply, accounting for approximately 40% of imported fabrics, offering competitive prices across various fabric types. Indian manufacturers contribute about 25%, particularly excelling in printed cotton fabrics and traditional designs. Turkish suppliers have carved out a 15% market share in the medium to high-end segment, known for quality fabrics with contemporary designs.

ALSO READ: Will East Africa's Fashion E-commerce Prove Itself Globally in 2025?

Local manufacturing, though currently meeting only 20% of market demand, maintains a significant presence through key players across member states. Kenya's RIVATEX (Rift Valley Textile Mills) has undergone modernization to enhance capacity. Tanzania's Mutex-Musoma, Uganda's Southern Range Nyanza Limited, Rwanda's UTEXIRWA, and Burundi's Afritextile continue to focus on cotton-based fabrics, though they face challenges in accommodating smaller orders from middle-income fashion designers.

The supply chain faces several structural challenges. Port congestion at Mombasa and Dar es Salaam can delay imports, though recent infrastructure investments have improved efficiency. Quality control remains inconsistent across member states despite established regional standards. However, these challenges create opportunities for suppliers who can maintain consistent quality and reliable delivery.

The Port of Mombasa in Kenya [Photo Credit: NT]

Market trends vary across EAC countries but share some common threads. Environmental awareness has increased demand for sustainable fabrics, though price sensitivity remains a limiting factor. Fabrics incorporating traditional African patterns with contemporary elements enjoy strong demand, particularly among younger consumers, and for government-sponsored events—Tanzania and Burundi, in particular, frequently commission custom fabrics for national events and political activities.

Members of the current leading the politics in Tanzania, wearing  dominant green outfits [Photo Credit: NT] 

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), ratified in 2019, presents new opportunities for market expansion. Creating the largest trading bloc since the World Trade Organization's inception, it aims to eliminate trade barriers across a market of over 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion. This agreement could strengthen the regional collaboration among cotton growers, ginners, and textile companies, though infrastructure limitations and complex origin regulations pose challenges.

A significant challenge facing the market is the prevalence of second-hand clothes (SHC). The EAC accounts for 12.5% of global SHC imports, creating an estimated 3.4 million jobs. While some advocate for restrictions on SHC imports to protect local manufacturing, others argue that the sector contributes to sustainable practices and provides affordable clothing options. Each ton of SHC imported creates approximately 7.58 jobs, supporting millions of households across the region.

A woman selling second hand clothes in Uganda   [Photo Credit: NT]

Looking ahead, several opportunities exist for fabric suppliers in the EAC market. E-commerce platforms are connecting suppliers directly with fashion designers and manufacturers. Value-added services like digital printing and specialized finishes command premium prices, while international suppliers increasingly collaborate with local distributors to better understand regional preferences.

The market's future success depends on addressing key challenges: controlling counterfeit products, managing raw material costs and exchange rate fluctuations, and developing local expertise in modern textile technologies. As one expert notes, establishing dedicated fashion schools and training centers across the EAC will be crucial for competing with imported fabrics and developing local manufacturing capabilities.

Inside a Chinese textiles factory in Ethiopia [Photo Credit: NT]

The EAC fashion market continues to evolve, presenting significant opportunities for fabric suppliers who can navigate its complexities while meeting evolving consumer demands. Success requires understanding local market dynamics, establishing reliable supply chains, and maintaining consistent quality standards within this rapidly growing market.

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS

Understanding the East Africa Community Fashion Market in 2025: Who Supplies Fabrics

The East African Community (EAC) fashion market is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by a burgeoning middle class and increasing urbanization across member states. With a market value exceeding $3 billion annually and projected growth of 7-8% over the next five years, this transformation has created a dynamic ecosystem where fabric suppliers play a crucial role in supporting the region's expanding fashion industry.

The region is rapidly emerging as a global hub in garment and textile manufacturing, distinguished by its unique advantage as a cotton-growing region—a characteristic that sets it apart from established manufacturing nations like Bangladesh, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. Despite this natural advantage, most East African countries currently export their cotton lint rather than utilizing it for local production.

Made in the EAC fabric by RIVATEX [Photo Credit: NT]

Recent initiatives demonstrate a shift toward strengthening domestic production capabilities. Ethiopia approved the commercialization of Bt cotton (genetically-modified, pest-resistant cotton) in 2018, while Kenya followed suit in 2019. That same year, the EAC approved the final draft of the cotton, textile, and apparel strategy (CTA), aimed at enhancing global competitiveness and developing the entire value chain from seed production to garment manufacturing.

A woman harvesting cotton in Kenya [Photo Credit: NT]

The supplier landscape in the EAC fashion market is diverse but dominated by international players. China leads external supply, accounting for approximately 40% of imported fabrics, offering competitive prices across various fabric types. Indian manufacturers contribute about 25%, particularly excelling in printed cotton fabrics and traditional designs. Turkish suppliers have carved out a 15% market share in the medium to high-end segment, known for quality fabrics with contemporary designs.

ALSO READ: Will East Africa's Fashion E-commerce Prove Itself Globally in 2025?

Local manufacturing, though currently meeting only 20% of market demand, maintains a significant presence through key players across member states. Kenya's RIVATEX (Rift Valley Textile Mills) has undergone modernization to enhance capacity. Tanzania's Mutex-Musoma, Uganda's Southern Range Nyanza Limited, Rwanda's UTEXIRWA, and Burundi's Afritextile continue to focus on cotton-based fabrics, though they face challenges in accommodating smaller orders from middle-income fashion designers.

The supply chain faces several structural challenges. Port congestion at Mombasa and Dar es Salaam can delay imports, though recent infrastructure investments have improved efficiency. Quality control remains inconsistent across member states despite established regional standards. However, these challenges create opportunities for suppliers who can maintain consistent quality and reliable delivery.

The Port of Mombasa in Kenya [Photo Credit: NT]

Market trends vary across EAC countries but share some common threads. Environmental awareness has increased demand for sustainable fabrics, though price sensitivity remains a limiting factor. Fabrics incorporating traditional African patterns with contemporary elements enjoy strong demand, particularly among younger consumers, and for government-sponsored events—Tanzania and Burundi, in particular, frequently commission custom fabrics for national events and political activities.

Members of the current leading the politics in Tanzania, wearing  dominant green outfits [Photo Credit: NT] 

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), ratified in 2019, presents new opportunities for market expansion. Creating the largest trading bloc since the World Trade Organization's inception, it aims to eliminate trade barriers across a market of over 1.3 billion people with a combined GDP of $3.4 trillion. This agreement could strengthen the regional collaboration among cotton growers, ginners, and textile companies, though infrastructure limitations and complex origin regulations pose challenges.

A significant challenge facing the market is the prevalence of second-hand clothes (SHC). The EAC accounts for 12.5% of global SHC imports, creating an estimated 3.4 million jobs. While some advocate for restrictions on SHC imports to protect local manufacturing, others argue that the sector contributes to sustainable practices and provides affordable clothing options. Each ton of SHC imported creates approximately 7.58 jobs, supporting millions of households across the region.

A woman selling second hand clothes in Uganda   [Photo Credit: NT]

Looking ahead, several opportunities exist for fabric suppliers in the EAC market. E-commerce platforms are connecting suppliers directly with fashion designers and manufacturers. Value-added services like digital printing and specialized finishes command premium prices, while international suppliers increasingly collaborate with local distributors to better understand regional preferences.

The market's future success depends on addressing key challenges: controlling counterfeit products, managing raw material costs and exchange rate fluctuations, and developing local expertise in modern textile technologies. As one expert notes, establishing dedicated fashion schools and training centers across the EAC will be crucial for competing with imported fabrics and developing local manufacturing capabilities.

Inside a Chinese textiles factory in Ethiopia [Photo Credit: NT]

The EAC fashion market continues to evolve, presenting significant opportunities for fabric suppliers who can navigate its complexities while meeting evolving consumer demands. Success requires understanding local market dynamics, establishing reliable supply chains, and maintaining consistent quality standards within this rapidly growing market.

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS

THE BRITISH FASHION COUNCIL APPOINTS LAURA WEIR AS THE ORGANIZATION'S CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

The British Fashion Council (BFC) has announced the appointment of Laura Weir as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective April 28, 2025. Weir will succeed Caroline Rush CBE, who is stepping down after 15 years of leadership. Rush will remain with the organization until June 2025 to oversee the completion of the 2024/25 financial year and ensure a smooth leadership transition.

Weir joins the BFC with an impressive track record as a recognized leader in the global fashion industry, bringing extensive experience in British design, executive-level retail management, and editorial leadership. Her appointment marks a new chapter in the organization's mission to champion British fashion on the global stage.

David Pemsel, BFC Chair, expressed enthusiasm about the appointment: "We are delighted to welcome Laura Weir as the incoming CEO of the BFC. Her two decades of experience working with established and emerging designers, creative talent, industry leaders, and press provides her with a deep understanding of the fashion industry ecosystem. Laura's strategic foresight will be instrumental in driving positive transformation and initiatives for the BFC's next chapter, both domestically and globally, supported by our exceptional team."

PHOTO: David Pemsel, BFC Chair

Upon accepting the position, Weir shared her vision: "I am honored to lead the BFC's next chapter at this pivotal time for British fashion. My focus will be on strengthening support for both emerging and established designers while nurturing our pipeline of British creative talent. We will continue to enhance our international industry presence and forge crucial partnerships with industry stakeholders and government to future-proof the sector."

PHOTO: Laura Weir speaking during the conference in Hong Kong 2024

In her role as CEO, Weir will oversee the BFC's comprehensive operations, collaborating with designers, industry partners, and government bodies to advance the organization's mission of championing British Fashion through its world-class programs. The BFC, operating as a not-for-profit organization, focuses on three key areas: responsible growth through community engagement and talent development; innovation through the Institute of Positive Fashion; and global amplification through signature events such as London Fashion Week, presented by 1664 Blanc, and The Fashion Awards, presented by Pandora.

Weir emphasized her commitment to addressing critical industry challenges: "We will prioritize environmental responsibility, representation, and inclusion while building on British fashion's significant contribution to the national economy. It is a privilege to champion the diversity and ingenuity that defines British fashion and to lead a mission that will inspire future generations."

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS 

The 2025 fashion calendar promises transformative changes across the industry's most prestigious events. New York Fashion Week kicks off the season in February (7-14) and September (4-11), followed by London (February 14-18, September 12-16), Milan (February 19-25, September 17-23), and Paris (February 25-March 5, September 23-October 1).

Digital innovation takes center stage as fashion houses embrace hybrid presentations. Virtual runways and augmented reality experiences will complement traditional shows, allowing broader audience engagement while reducing the environmental impact of international travel. Sustainable practices become mandatory, with designers required to report their collections' environmental footprint.

PHOTO: Paris Fashion Week 2024

The rise of tech-integrated fashion marks a significant shift. Smart fabrics, 3D-printed accessories, and digital wardrobes demonstrate the industry's evolution. Emerging designers, particularly from Africa and Asia, bring fresh perspectives on sustainable luxury and traditional craftsmanship.

ALSO READ: What to Expect on Global Scene in the Sustainable Fashion Trends for 2025

Design trends reflect global consciousness. Neo-minimalism emphasizes quality over quantity, while gender-fluid collections continue mainstreaming. Indigenous influences and climate-responsive designs showcase fashion's role in cultural dialogue. Artisanal techniques merge with modern technology, creating unique hybrid aesthetics.

PHOTO: Milan Fashion Week 2024

Business models adapt to changing consumer demands. Direct-to-consumer runway shows and see-now-buy-now formats gain prominence. Small-batch production and digital showrooms offer more sustainable alternatives to traditional wholesale models. Virtual fashion assets and digital marketplaces expand, creating new revenue streams.

Industry reforms address crucial issues. Updated modeling standards promote health and diversity. Supply chain transparency becomes non-negotiable, with brands required to demonstrate ethical practices and carbon footprint reduction. Inclusion initiatives ensure representation across all aspects of fashion week programming.

PHOTO: New York Fashion Week 2024

Consumer behavior shapes scheduling strategies. Investment pieces replace fast fashion, while customization and digital integration become standard features. Fashion Weeks adapts by showcasing fewer but more meaningful collections, emphasizing quality and longevity over quantity.

Emerging markets gain influence. Asian and African fashion capitals host significant events, challenging traditional fashion week hierarchies. Local designers receive global platforms through digital presentations and international collaborations.

ALSO READ:  Will East Africa's Fashion E-commerce Prove Itself Globally in 2025? 

PHOTO: London Fashion Week 2024

Technology enables real-time consumer engagement. Live streaming, virtual try-ons, and interactive presentations allow immediate feedback and purchasing. Artificial intelligence assists in trend forecasting and sustainable design practices.

PHOTO: Berlin Fashion Week 2024

The 2025 fashion weeks represent a pivotal moment as the industry balances tradition with innovation. Success metrics extend beyond sales to include sustainability impact and cultural relevance. This evolution ensures fashion weeks remain relevant while addressing contemporary challenges and opportunities.

2025 Fashion Weeks Calendar 

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS 

International Fashion Weeks 2025 Preview: A New Era of Innovation and Sustainability

The 2025 fashion calendar promises transformative changes across the industry's most prestigious events. New York Fashion Week kicks off the season in February (7-14) and September (4-11), followed by London (February 14-18, September 12-16), Milan (February 19-25, September 17-23), and Paris (February 25-March 5, September 23-October 1).

Digital innovation takes center stage as fashion houses embrace hybrid presentations. Virtual runways and augmented reality experiences will complement traditional shows, allowing broader audience engagement while reducing the environmental impact of international travel. Sustainable practices become mandatory, with designers required to report their collections' environmental footprint.

PHOTO: Paris Fashion Week 2024

The rise of tech-integrated fashion marks a significant shift. Smart fabrics, 3D-printed accessories, and digital wardrobes demonstrate the industry's evolution. Emerging designers, particularly from Africa and Asia, bring fresh perspectives on sustainable luxury and traditional craftsmanship.

ALSO READ: What to Expect on Global Scene in the Sustainable Fashion Trends for 2025

Design trends reflect global consciousness. Neo-minimalism emphasizes quality over quantity, while gender-fluid collections continue mainstreaming. Indigenous influences and climate-responsive designs showcase fashion's role in cultural dialogue. Artisanal techniques merge with modern technology, creating unique hybrid aesthetics.

PHOTO: Milan Fashion Week 2024

Business models adapt to changing consumer demands. Direct-to-consumer runway shows and see-now-buy-now formats gain prominence. Small-batch production and digital showrooms offer more sustainable alternatives to traditional wholesale models. Virtual fashion assets and digital marketplaces expand, creating new revenue streams.

Industry reforms address crucial issues. Updated modeling standards promote health and diversity. Supply chain transparency becomes non-negotiable, with brands required to demonstrate ethical practices and carbon footprint reduction. Inclusion initiatives ensure representation across all aspects of fashion week programming.

PHOTO: New York Fashion Week 2024

Consumer behavior shapes scheduling strategies. Investment pieces replace fast fashion, while customization and digital integration become standard features. Fashion Weeks adapts by showcasing fewer but more meaningful collections, emphasizing quality and longevity over quantity.

Emerging markets gain influence. Asian and African fashion capitals host significant events, challenging traditional fashion week hierarchies. Local designers receive global platforms through digital presentations and international collaborations.

ALSO READ:  Will East Africa's Fashion E-commerce Prove Itself Globally in 2025?

PHOTO: London Fashion Week 2024

Technology enables real-time consumer engagement. Live streaming, virtual try-ons, and interactive presentations allow immediate feedback and purchasing. Artificial intelligence assists in trend forecasting and sustainable design practices.

PHOTO: Berlin Fashion Week 2024

The 2025 fashion weeks represent a pivotal moment as the industry balances tradition with innovation. Success metrics extend beyond sales to include sustainability impact and cultural relevance. This evolution ensures fashion weeks remain relevant while addressing contemporary challenges and opportunities.

2025 Fashion Weeks Calendar 

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS 

Will East Africa's Fashion E-commerce Prove Itself Globally in 2025?

The East African fashion e-commerce sector stands at a pivotal moment in 2025, with rapid growth particularly visible in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. This digital fashion revolution, centered in urban hubs like Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, and Kampala, is being propelled by increased internet penetration, widespread smartphone adoption, and an expanding middle class with greater purchasing power.

The East Africa corridor, encompassing eight countries, is projected to house half a billion people and sits atop some of the continent's richest natural resources. In 2024, industry experts extensively discussed both the opportunities and challenges facing East African fashion designers in the e-commerce space. In a recent interview with RCFS Media, a United Nations expert based in Nairobi shared insights into the sector's prospects for 2025.

PHOTO: Inside the Kenyan ViVo Women shop in Atlanta, USA

"We need to trust each other before we trust online transactions and fashion businesses. Some East African citizens prefer to buy clothes before trying them on and even touch them. So, e-commerce is on its way to booming, but more needs to be done by our fashion designers," the expert emphasized.

The cultural context of clothing in East Africa plays a crucial role in shaping current consumer behavior. Historically, fashion clothing began as a symbol of status, with kings and their families being the first to adopt Western clothing during the colonial period. This historical pattern has evolved into today's market, where approximately 80% of consumers still prefer purchasing second-hand clothes through traditional face-to-face transactions.

PHOTO: Made in Kenya by ViVo Women 

Despite this traditional preference, East Africa's digital landscape is expanding rapidly. Projections suggest universal smartphone access by 2050, with current smartphone penetration already reaching 80% in countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. However, the expert notes that mere access to technology isn't enough: "Now is the time to teach people how to use smartphones and internet for purchasing fashion collections. But fashion designers must convince customers that their collections will fit them."

PHOTO: Made in Rwanda by Moshions 

Payment infrastructure presents another crucial consideration. "Fashion designers need to think about building alternatives such as MTN-Mobile money, M-Pesa, Airtel, and others because not every citizen owns a Master Card or Visa card," the expert advised. This adaptation to local payment preferences could prove crucial for market success.

The e-commerce landscape currently features both local and international players. Local startups have emerged focusing on African-inspired fashion and local designers, while international platforms like Jumia have established strong presences offering both local and international brands. However, the expert cautions about the complexities of direct e-commerce: "Creating a website and allowing direct purchases isn't feasible for every fashion designer. You must consider webmaster costs and security policies to protect client information."

 PHOTO: Made in Tanzania by Doreen Mashika from Zanzibar 

Looking ahead to 2025, fashion designers must address several key challenges such as Consumer preference for traditional shopping experiences and physical fitting rooms, Trust issues regarding online payments and product quality, Size standardization challenges across different brands, Delivery challenges, especially in rural areas, Unreliable internet connectivity in some regions, and Limited warehouse and logistics infrastructure.

Despite these challenges, the industry shows promising signs of evolution. Success in 2025 will likely depend on brands' ability to: Create meaningful customer experiences, Build strong brand equity, Adapt to changing demographics, Navigate economic challenges effectively, Leverage technology wisely, and Prioritize sustainability.

PHOTO: Collection made by Ugandan fashion designer Wyna Kirabo based in Barcelona 

The future of East African fashion e-commerce appears promising, though success will require careful navigation of both technological and cultural considerations. As the expert concludes, "Don't forget EAC citizens are the most curious people I have ever seen." This curiosity, combined with growing digital adoption and innovative solutions to current challenges, could position East African fashion e-commerce for significant global impact in 2025.

Fashion Trends Africa by RCFS