Galeries Lafayette to Celebrate African Creativity with the “AFRICA NOW” Pop-Up
A Showcase for International Exposure
In 2024, Studio Ka, the flagship brand of the Africa Fashion Up program, reached a milestone by organizing the very first sale featuring African designers under the dome of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, in the heart of Paris. Present during Paris Fashion Week, the designers enjoyed privileged access to key industry networks and visibility within the most influential circles of the international fashion world.
The Return to Galeries Lafayette
In 2025, Studio Ka returned to Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann with a new highlight. Following the Africa Fashion Up runway show, the Africa Now pop-up, curated by the brand, opened under the dome on the third floor (ready-to-wear) from June 18 to July 8. The event, praised in particular by Vincent Sénécat, director of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann; His Excellency Nkosinathi Emmanuel, South African ambassador to France; His Excellency Maurice Bandaman, Ivorian ambassador to France; as well as His Excellency Christine Ouinsavi, Beninese ambassador to France, Aichatou Boulama Kané, Ambassador of Niger to France, and singer-producer Fally Ipupa, showcased the successful alliance between African creativity and Parisian excellence.
LOCATIONGaleries Lafayette Paris Haussmann
40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris
3rd floor—main store
HOURSMonday through Sunday:
10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
HOW TO GET THERE?Metro lines 9 and 7:
Chaussée d'Antin La Fayette
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COLLE ARDO SOW Collé Sow, an iconic figure in African fashion, began her career as a model before graduating from the Institut de Coupe et de Haute Couture in Paris in 1979. In 1983, she organized her first fashion show in Dakar and launched her own brand. Her work with woven pagne—handcrafted by Senegalese artisans—became her signature style and earned her the title “Queen of Woven Pagne.” Through her designs, she promotes traditional crafts and local expertise. In 2003, she launched the SIRA Vision international trade show, a global showcase for African fashion. She advocates for transforming fashion into a true industry in Africa. She calls on investors to support this promising sector. Her ambition: to establish a large-scale production facility in Dakar. Collé Sow Ardo embodies a vision of fashion rooted in African identity and focused on the future. -
ALGUEYE A fashion brand founded in 2012 by Abdou Lahad GUEYE. The brand’s name is derived from the founder’s first and last names, making it truly unique. ALGUEYE DAKAR offers modern and ethnic-inspired clothing for men and women that is designed to be elegant and authentic at every stage of life. We provide chic and glamorous clothing with an emphasis on versatility and adaptability. Our garments allow customers to express their own style while meeting their everyday needs, enabling them to stay up-to-date with the latest trends without sacrificing timelessness. With our clothing, you can create your own unique look for any occasion.
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BANDAMA BANDAMA draws its identity from the iconic river that flows through Côte d’Ivoire from north to south before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean at Grand-Lahou. A symbol of movement, vitality, and diversity, it perfectly embodies the spirit we wish to infuse into our brand. BANDAMA was born in Abidjan, the vibrant economic capital of Côte d’Ivoire. Nicknamed the “Manhattan of West Africa,” this true multicultural hub, brimming with talent and inspiration, fuels our creativity every day and shapes our vision of fashion.
AFRICA NOW
AFRICA NOW offers the public a unique opportunity to discover distinctive works rooted in strong local identities and a contemporary aesthetic.
Alix Morabito, Director of Women’s Fashion Buying and Special Projects: “I am delighted to welcome this new generation of contemporary fashion designers from the African continent.” For her, through this pop-up: “Galeries Lafayette continues to affirm its commitment to showcasing the energy of creativity to the public.” This pop-up allowed an international clientele to purchase original pieces while supporting emerging African designers. Located in the heart of Paris, it marked a pivotal step in the designers’ expansion onto the European scene, boosting both their visibility and their international recognition.
