The 2nd edition of Cocktails and Dresses 2016 truly was the “Largest Gathering of Made in Africa’s Best.” The fashion industry event took place on Sunday December 11, 2016 at the Intercontinental Hotel, Lagos.
The event set the perfect platform to redefine African fabrics and fashion as being more than traditional wears but a perfect blend of uniqueness and sophistication. The hall portrayed the theme of the event – ‘Everything Luxury & High-quality Made in Africa’ with the exhibitors stand beautifully emblazoned with ‘African prints’ and a touch of ‘ankara’ umbrellas.
The event had distinguished personalities from different industries in attendance with the very best of African designers exhibiting bags, shoes, clothes, health and beauty products to the African market.
The event kicked off to a great start with the rendition of the Nigerian national anthem by Mirabel Ayavoro from Project Fame West Africa.
The Young CEO’s panel session had thriving African entrepreneurs who are making lasting impact on Africa. The session which was moderated by Ms. Bolanle Olukanni had Mr. Michael Ugwu- CEO of Sony Music West Africa; Mr. Kabir- CEO of Zippy Logistics and Ms. Olatorera Oniru-CEO of Dressmeoutlet.com.
Guests were entertained with musical performance from songstress Mirabel which was a perfect fit for the fashion industry event hosted by TV personality Mimi Onalaja looking all gorgeous in a dress by “Trish O Couture’
While the crowd dined on “yummy” treats by Intercontinental Hotel and sipped on free cocktails from Amarula, Euphoria Ng and Smoothie Queen. A N30, 000 worth of shopping voucher; free custom made bag from The Potter’s Signature, free KUI care hair products and three free hampers from SupermartNg were given out to lucky winners.
Professor Pat Utomi, the keynote speaker at the event emphasized without mincing words the importance of the retail industry in Africa and how having an e-commerce company with focus on the African fashion industry being an added advantage to the continent.
He further applauded the organizers of the event, Dressmeoutlet.com and the designers who are adding Africa’s name in the global map.
This edition debuted the runway show with four participating designers. The ‘Somethingbohemian’ a shimmering timeless collection from designer Blingshiki who teamed up with notable designer Muji Lagos was launched, Tash by TashaGodwin awed the audience with her fab and unique collection, Nikky Kay Couture showcased a collection of outstanding designs in high-end floral and print fabrics and Amarelis Atelier redefined stylishly chic and sophisticated with her designs.
The exhibition gallery featured exceptional and ready-to-wear pieces from creative fashion designers like: DMG, Ralys Rubys, Bimbeads, Qubraz designs, The Potters Signature, Emmy Clothing, Amarelis Designs, House of Rev, Daisys Wardrobe, Trish O Couture, Lawiza Creations, Nonye Lumm, Lumiere Couture, Sammies Couture and Le look.
Others were: Nma Clothing, Blingshiki, Elegante by Tiannah Styling, 87 Origins, Terre Lagos, May Anthony, Ethinik by Tunde, Divine Endowments, Morin O, TWC, 313 Eko Shoes, Miss Lax, Dot Fashions, Muji Lagos, Yetroselane, Riella Direct, Mobos Fashion and Alamode Concepts and high-quality beauty and health brands like: KUI care, Oriki, Lianor Beauty Bar and Organic Life Plus.
The event was organized by Dressmeoutlet.com to scale up the African fashion industry and increase the industry’s contribution to national GDP.
