Africa Fashion Week London 2025 is set to be one of the most dynamic celebrations of African creativity on the global stage. The world's largest & longest-running showcase of African design is scheduled for 9 -10 August 2025 at Space House 1 Kemble Street London WC2B 4AN.
Among the standout participants are two bold Kenyan brands from the British Council Creative DNA program — Kisero Nairobi and Sevaria. Both labels embody a unique blend of cultural heritage, contemporary design, and a commitment to sustainability, making them unmissable highlights at this year’s event.
British Council Creative DNA Program and Its Impact
The Creative DNA program, powered by the British Council, supports emerging African designers through mentorship, market access, and international exposure. For Kenyan fashion creatives, the initiative has become a bridge between local craftsmanship and global opportunities.
Participants gain more than visibility. They build strong professional networks, refine their business strategies, and present collections that stand out on runways in competitive markets. Africa Fashion Week London is one of the prime stages where these talents meet buyers, stylists, and fashion press from across the world.
This year, the Kenyan delegation brings a striking mix of heritage craftsmanship, modern storytelling, and cultural authenticity — led by Kisero Nairobi and Sevaria.
a. Kisero Nairobi
Founded in 2020, Kisero Nairobi is a luxury leather brand rooted in family tradition. The brand’s story begins with over two decades of craftsmanship passed from father to son, culminating in collections that fuse timeless African artistry with clean, modern silhouettes.
Specializing in handmade leather footwear, bags, and accessories, Kisero Nairobi creates pieces that appeal to professionals, creatives, and global tastemakers seeking authentic, high-quality items with character. Every product reflects meticulous attention to detail, from the stitching to the choice of ethically sourced leather.
Commitment to Craftsmanship and Heritage
Kisero works closely with local artisans in Nairobi, ensuring each piece supports the livelihoods of skilled makers. The brand’s designs balance traditional techniques with modern design cues, creating items that feel equally at home in Nairobi, London, or New York.
Beyond design, Kisero’s ethos is rooted in purpose. By collaborating with both local and international designers, the brand maintains a standard of quality while promoting cultural exchange. Their approach goes beyond fashion — it’s about preserving artisanal heritage while positioning African craftsmanship in the luxury market.
Presence at Africa Fashion Week London 2025
Kisero Nairobi will feature both on the catwalk and in the exhibition hall. Expect a showcase of structured leather bags, statement shoes, and refined accessories that embody understated elegance. The presentation aims to demonstrate how African leather craftsmanship stands at par with global luxury houses.
b. Sevaria
Founded by Jamie Bryan Kimani in 2018, Sevaria is a contemporary fashion brand redefining the boundaries of menswear and womenswear. The label is known for genderfluid silhouettes, culturally inspired designs, and a deep connection to Kenyan heritage.
Jamie’s background spans make-up artistry, styling, and fashion design, giving Sevaria a multidimensional creative approach. His inspiration draws from his upbringing in Kiserian, Kenya, and blends influences from the Maasai, the Akorino, and wider African cultural traditions.
Cultural Storytelling Through Fashion
Sevaria collections are rich in Afro-nostalgia, weaving cultural references into bold, modern forms. Each garment becomes a narrative piece — a chapter in a story about identity, tradition, and self-expression.
The brand emphasizes handwoven textiles, textures, and sustainable practices. By sourcing upcycled materials from second-hand markets, Sevaria not only reduces waste but also injects new life into forgotten fabrics. These textiles are then transformed into one-of-a-kind designs that defy seasonal trends.
Breaking Gender Norms
Sevaria’s designs challenge rigid fashion categories. The pieces blur lines between what is traditionally labeled menswear or womenswear, instead embracing a fluid approach to style. This positioning aligns the brand with global conversations around inclusivity and individuality in fashion.
Showcasing at Africa Fashion Week London 2025
Sevaria will present both on the runway and in the exhibition space, offering visitors an up-close look at the craftsmanship, detail, and cultural richness behind each piece. Expect bold tailoring, textured layers, and statement garments that celebrate African identity with a modern edge.
Why These Brands Matter on the Global Stage
The presence of Kisero Nairobi and Sevaria at Africa Fashion Week London represents more than fashion exports. It signals the rising global influence of Kenyan design in an industry historically dominated by Eurocentric narratives.
Their participation showcases how African brands can hold their own in luxury, sustainability, and storytelling. Both brands highlight that African fashion is not a trend — it’s a thriving industry with deep roots and global potential.
Sustainability and Ethical Fashion Leadership
Both Kisero Nairobi and Sevaria prioritize ethical production. For Kisero, that means working directly with artisans and sourcing materials responsibly. For Sevaria, it’s about reimagining waste fabrics into high-value fashion pieces.
This commitment resonates with a growing base of conscious consumers worldwide, making their presence in international markets both culturally significant and commercially relevant.
The Future of Kenyan Fashion Internationally
Kenyan designers are increasingly part of the global fashion dialogue. Initiatives like the British Council Creative DNA program accelerate this trajectory by giving creatives the tools, exposure, and confidence to present their work on the world’s most influential platforms.
If the reception at Africa Fashion Week London 2025 is any indication, brands like Kisero Nairobi and Sevaria are not only representing Kenya — they are redefining what African luxury and contemporary design mean for the global fashion market.
Key Takeaways for the Industry
- Heritage sells internationally when presented with contemporary relevance.
- Sustainability is a competitive advantage for African brands in the global market.
- Genderfluid design is not niche anymore; it’s a growing segment in fashion retail.
- Artisan collaborations strengthen brand authenticity and storytelling.
Africa Fashion Week London 2025 will be a major opportunity for industry buyers, journalists, and consumers to engage with the depth and diversity of African fashion. For Kisero Nairobi and Sevaria, it’s a chance to cement their position as leaders of the next generation of African luxury.
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