Fashion and freedom of expression is at the core of Adama Paris, the brand created by Senegalese designer Adama Amanda Ndiaye.
We find out more about this innovative designer who is showing at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town.
Quote to design by
"Life isn't perfect but your outfit can be."
Brand philosophy
Fashion and freedom of expression is at the core of Adama Paris, created by Senegalese designer Adama Amanda Ndiaye.
Background
She fell in love with Yves Saint Laurent when she was nine. She has shown at Senegal and Dakar Fashion Weeks .
story_article_left1
Looking ahead
She looks forward to African designers claiming more space in the fashion industry.
Style icon
French model Katoucha Niane and her grandmother.
Latest project
She recently conceptualised Fashion Africa TV.
When she's not designing
She's outdoors, soaking up the sun and sea on a surfboard, or improving her handicap on the golf course.
Greatest challenge
Finding financial backing to expand her business.
Latest collection
Adama Paris' current collection is inspired by the Sapeurs - a group of high-fashion men that emerged in the Congo 25 years ago called La Societé des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes, or the Society of Tastemakers and Elegant People.
The Sapeurs turned the art of dressing into a cultural statement. They are ordinary working-class men clothed in elegant attire.
Interpretation
Adama's feminine interpretation of the Sapeurs has resulted in an artistic, cultural vision, marrying bold African prints with bright colours and juxtaposed with sequins.
• Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Cape Town 2017 , which is taking place in Camps Bay from March 23-25.
• This article was originally published in The Times
Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package. 