The show was created by local designer and blogger Queen Rewami. "Our aim is to provide a platform where upcoming designers, student designers, small/ medium/ large-sized African designers locally or internationally can promote their creative designs."

Themed “The Modern Regal” the sold-out debut has secured a spot as a go-to event in Calgary's entertainment scene.

At a community centre, turned into a full-fledged fashion week set, guests mingled prior to the show, rubbing shoulders with influencers and press, flaunting their styles for photo ops on the red carpet and stopping for candid interviews with red carpet hostess Mckenna.

Sam The DJ kept the vibe of the night ignited with Afrobeat hits. Gift boxes, compliments of the show’s sponsors awaited front row and VIP guests which was a great touch.

The show got underway with MC Kome who did a superb job keeping the audience engaged and lively throughout the night. Guests were entertained with song, dance and poetry by artistes Natmi, The Shushaker and A Lot Of Poetry by TOLA.

The two-part fashion show featured 10 African design creatives Roar, Tistange, Kyn Apparel, Bobby T Couture (Bespoke tailoring and handmade shoes) Tossbury Classic Closet, Deborah’s Collection, Misy T, Hanupor Apparel, Fashmi Apparel and Designs By Arewami, the show’s founder and producer.

The crowd erupted in thunderous applause and cheers for the collections which showcased a fusion of trend-setting western and African designs. The models floated and danced down the runway bringing the fashions to life, complemented by editorial artistry of the beauty team Beaudelle Beauty Artistry, Diaries Of Another MUA, Bella Luxurie and House Of Posh.

The vendor hall was abuzz during intermission with patrons eager to support local businesses. Ahinke’s Kitchen and The Cake Aisle’s Chin Chin provided authentic Nigerian delicacies.

The after-party “Jollof” hosted by AfroBeats YYC featured a cast of top Djs from the city and guests partied into the early morning hours at The Art Lounge Junction Underground.

Congratulations to Designs by Arewami and her team on an excellent execution of AFW Calgary year 1! Looking forward to what’s to come next year.

For more from the event and to connect with the show’s creatives follow @afwcalgary and official hashtags #afwcalgary #afwcalgary2019 on Instagram and Facebook.

Photos by Jessica Gray (jgray. Photography).

Know a Black Canadian event we should feature? Email us: info at byblacks.com