Let Me Show You Different Activates Our Five Senses Through African Fashion
On Saturday, June 3rd, fashion lovers and Denver locals of all backgrounds witnessed the energetic and cultural transformation that occurred in ReelWorks Denver. The African Fashion Show, presented by Koya Nyangi of Let Me Show You Different, provided a show unlike any other Denver has seen. Unlike most fashion shows, attendees were able to fully engage with the experience through all five senses. That’s right, we were fed with fashion and food.
Upon entrance, the rich and savory smell of South African and Senegalese food filled the air and pulled attendees further and further into the world of creativity and diversity of this culturally rich heritage. Although we are not food critics, we took several moments to taste and take in the deliciously plated cuisine. The jollof rice was so buttery smooth and thoughtfully seasoned, and the plantains were crisped to perfection – nonetheless, our plates were cleaned and it was a bittersweet goodbye.
Now back to the show. Every show, however it’s displayed, has a theme and heartbeat. It’s what ties it all together and what keeps the momentum going. The heart of this show was led by the sound of traditional African drums while the steady beat led the audience to their seats and into what was more than a show, but a cultural experience. Audience members were called on stage to touch and encounter the joyous sound for themselves while they were encouraged to beat on the rhythmic drums.
Now that the crowd was seasoned in, it was finally time to welcome our host. Koya Nyangi, the absolute diamond of the season was immaculately garnished in a sequined caftan and hot pink heels. Nyangi, known for her vivacious presence, danced her way down the runway gathering attendees, friends, colleagues and the like together for her grand entrance. Nyangi took the mic and spoke proudly about the show we were about to receive:
A huge part of our culture is to dance, if the spirit moves you, just get down and do it…We are here to let us show you different.”
The sight element of the show went above and beyond our expectations. Traditional African textiles, jewelry and modern designs were presented by several sustainable designers and artists like KikoRomeo from Kenya, LAANIRAANI from South Africa, Sevaria from Kenya, Margaux Wong and Adele Dejak from Kenya. Nyangi shared how some designers and creative directors were unable to attend due to the U.S. government’s recent visa regulations. The government has concerns that visitors from South Sub-Saharan regions will overstay their visas, even for short stays. As an alternative, each designer greeted attendees with an introduction video to their brand and overall brand story.
Up first was South African designer LAANIRAANI who showcased ten jaw-dropping handmade designs. The lights were turned down low, the music began and our eyes were set forward to the stage. To our surprise, an intruding light from outside entered the venue and the models began their strut from the outdoors to center stage all powerfully posed to showcase the colorful and multiprint collection. One by one, models left the stage to walk the runway dressed in sustainable and gorgeous paisley print pieces, patchwork textiles and quilted layers. LAANIRANNI’s most iconic looks reintroduced hoop skirts and wiring with a tasteful and modern twist. These bright and multi-layered looks managed to evolve the wiring and hoop skirt detail to more than the traditional skirt garment but to wide-leg pants as well. Movement and flow was a cohesive element throughout each look and brought a fun and carefree energy to the collection.
Wearable art brand Margaux Wong brought us back down to earth with neutral, sheer and flowy silhouettes. The brand’s ethos of responsible luxury was made clear through elevated and luxurious jewelry and accessories. The jewelry landed as the focal point of each look and brilliantly complimented the resort-like garments. Each custom piece was made from cow horn, brass and a selection of ethically sourced materials. Standout pieces like the checkerboard bralette and arm armor made from their signature horn and brass combination taught us a thing or two about how to masterfully accessorize our basics for the Summer.
Post intermission, the audience was introduced to Kenyan designer KikoRomeo. Creative Director Iona McCreath virtually shared how there is resilience in business and how that has transpired throughout the brand. As the show began, models came from opposing directions while once again they took the stage in warm weather-approved garments. Fitted and flowy was the name of the game while tasseled details and sunset-colored blue and orange tie-dye matching sets brought these breathable linen garments to life. Every piece by KikoRomeo had us daydreaming about our next vacation, and how we will stuff each look into our carry-on bags.
Sevaria introduced looks that Denver’s never seen before and explored the meaning of identity and expression through fashion. As a brand, Sevaria celebrates identity through its gender fluid designs. Models took the stage and stood strong with pride while dressed in high-end constructed garments. Each piece was incredibly intricate yet versatile with brown, white, black and cream as the core collection colors. Multiple pieces were detailed with ruffles, sequins and stripes. A look that stunned us all was a matching brown skirt and jacket set decorated in gold drop sequins with a matching bucket hat also tying in the sequins on the brim. With the diverse range of models in gender and size, these looks proved to be the ultimate ready-to-wear collection and effortlessly for everyone.
The final designer of the night, Adele Dejak, showcased a sustainable handmade jewelry line with the models dressed in unique and traditional Kenyan jewelry as they wore shapeless velour slips. As the jewelry exuded power and reigned supreme throughout the collection, gold makeup complimented each model’s entire look keeping a cohesive and bold ensemble. These edgy and luxury jewelry pieces consisted of brass bangles, spiked ear cuffs, statement ring galore, ankle cuffs and more, all made of recycled metals, brass and aluminum.
As supporters and spectators of the night, we can confirm that not only did Koya successfully transport us into a whole new world and culture through the utilization of fashion and all five of our senses, but she cultivated a memorable and emotional experience that the fashion community in Denver so desperately needed. The Curio Cabinet team is so proud of you Koya, and thank you for showing us different.
All photography provided by: Roxanna Carrasco
Written by: Jordan McClendon