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Arise African Icons@2013 Spring/Summer Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week

The ARISE Magazine’s African Icons Spring 2013 which showcased designs by 5 African designers who won the coveted prize to represent the ARISE Magazine (In partnership with Mercedes Benz Fashion Week) as part of its self-styled fashion expose themed: “African Icons” extravaganza, which was held last Thursday at the Lincoln centre in NewYork.The designers impressed the audience with chic women’s and menswear collections made up of updated prints,stunning silk and lace.The 5 African designers who showcased at the show were:

Ozwald Boateng OBE
Gavin Rajah
Tiffany Amber
Tsemaye Binitie
Maki-Oh
Here is what the African lcons had to say about participating in the show:
Here’s what ARISE’s five ‘African Icons’ have to say:

Ozwald Boateng OBE (UK/Ghana).

“I want to support the important work ARISE is doing for African fashion. It’s good to help bring the stylistic messages of the AMFW experience of Lagos to New York. I have a good following in the States and have showed solo at NYFW three times…If you’re interested in the American consumer. NYFW is where it’s at.”

Tiffany Amber (Nigeria):

“I have a special place in my heart for AMFW shows. It felt surreal to walk down the runway at the first show in February 2009…like we were at a party thrown by the world. I loved it and can’t wait to do it again…”

Tsemaye Binitie (UK/Nigeria):

“From the backstage production and calibre of models, to working with world-class stylists and make-up artists – and being at the Lincoln Center… It’s all wow!”

Maki Oh (Nigeria):
“I have put my ‘AMFW Designer of the Year’ Award on my dining table, beside an amethyst candle holder and other awards I’ve won. I’m excited about the whole line-up ARISE has chosen. Great times ahead…”

Gavin Rajah (South Africa):

“I was so excited to show in Lagos as it’s a city leading economic growth in Africa. I received amazing feedback and loved the energy. My US clients appreciate my craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. So I’ll be showing a luxe pret-a-porter collection and can’t wait!”

Peep some highlights from the video below: