The highly anticipated GTCO fashion weekend 2023 took place in Lagos on November 11-12, 2023. This annual extravaganza, hosted by the prestigious Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), has become a cornerstone of the Nigerian fashion calendar, attracting designers, enthusiasts, and industry professionals from around the globe.
This year’s edition not only thrilled the audience with stylish pieces and trends but also imparted knowledge about the fashion industry.
The two-day event featured beautiful runway presentations, fashion exhibitions, master classes, and awe-inspiring street style. If you missed this glorious weekend of fashion, this article will fill you in on everything that went down. Let’s get started.
History of GTCO Fashion Weekend
The GTCO Fashion Weekend emerged in response to the growing need for a platform that celebrates and promotes Africa’s rich and diverse fashion landscape. Guaranty Trust Bank, a leading financial institution in Nigeria, recognized the potential to create an event that not only showcases the talents of African designers but also fosters collaboration and networking within the industry.
Since its inception, the GTCO Fashion Weekend has evolved into a highly anticipated annual event, bringing together designers, models, fashion enthusiasts, and industry insiders. The event serves as a melting pot of creativity, showcasing the fusion of traditional African aesthetics with contemporary global trends.
Insightful Masterclass at the GTCO Fashion Weekend 2023
One of the major highlights of the events was the masterclass hosted by fashion professionals teaching important skills for creating and maintaining successful fashion labels.
On Day 1 of the event, Sergio Hudson, a renowned American fashion designer shared his tidbits in the masterclass highlighting the importance of achieving one’s dream as an entrepreneur in the creative space of fashion.
In his words:
“If you do not have a designer you will not have a fashion magazine, you will not have any style to show, therefore you need to love and have passion for the fashion business in order to work things out.”
The masterclass ended with insightful teachings on building a successful career in the fashion space.
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Top Designers That Graced GTCO Fashion Weekend 2023
The evening started with stunning runway looks from Africa’s top designers and international labels. Here’s a look at those who graced the runway
Banke Kuku
Banke was one of the top designers who stormed the GTCO fashion weekend with luxury clothing. Her luxury loungewear showcased her talent and cultural experiences in London and Lagos.
Duaba Serwa
Known for origami folds, triangle pleating, and smockwork fashioned from silks and handwoven. Duaba once again thrilled Lagos audience with her delightful pieces at the fashion event
Bruce and Glen
Another top designer known for their track record of working with celebrities such as Beyonce, Nicki Minaj, Trey Songz, and Diddy were on hand to showcase their excellent sustainable apparel on the runway.
Theophilo at GTCO Fashion Weekend 2023
The Jamaican-American designer showed up and showed out with their vibrant and modern designs. For GTCO fashion weekend, they made sure to integrate elements of Jamaica and Caribbean culture on the runway
Mazelle Studio at GTCO Fashion Weekend 2023
The pieces showcased by mazelle studios at the GTCO Fashion Week were simply gorgeous. From stylish cut crop tops to maxi gowns. This designer pulled out all the stops for the runway.
Ejiro Amos Tafiri
Yes, our very own. Ejiro’s designs poured fresh life into our culture with her modern and stylish pieces with the Oleku attire.
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Torlowei at GTCO Fashion Weekend 2023
The luxury brand showcased stunning lingerie-inspired pieces for the GTCO fashion weekend.
Ywandelag
This collection took the definition of African Queen to the next level. Models were sprouting beautiful Afro hair to and rocking gorgeous pieces while strutting their stuff on the runway.
FIA at GTCO Fashion Weekend 2023
You’ve got to give it to Nigerian Designers, they know their stuff. Fia made sure every moment was worth it with their stunning collection.
Abigail Ajobi
Abigail Ajobi was the face of stylish denim wear for the GTCO fashion weekend. With her name branded on the designs, you can tell Abigail is set to make her mark in the industry.
ALSO READ: Lagos Fashion Week 2023: Everything That Went Down on & off the Runway
GTCO Fashion Weekend: A Trendsetter for Emerging Talents
The GTCO Fashion Weekend has become more than just a fashion event; it is a celebration of African creativity, innovation, and talent. As it continues to evolve, this annual extravaganza will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the African fashion industry. Through its commitment to showcasing diversity, fostering education, and promoting collaboration, the GTCO Fashion Weekend stands as a trendsetter for emerging talents in the industry. Designers showcased on the post are not all that presented, visit the GTCO FSHN WKND to feast your eyes and get acquainted with the brands.
