The Fashion Experience Festival 2024 set a new standard for fashion and empowerment in Port Harcourt. Held on October 26th and 27th at the Dr. Obi Wali International Conference Centre, the two-day event brought together industry leaders, dignitaries, and fashion enthusiasts to celebrate innovation, heritage, and inclusivity. Sponsored in part by the Rivers State Government, the event also highlighted the importance of mental and financial empowerment for women in Rivers State through platforms like the Women Entrepreneurs Summit (WE Summit).
The Private Runway: A Showcase of Excellence
The festival’s private runway show featured six of Nigeria’s finest fashion houses: ANIFERAZ, ZATEEMEE, AE Illuminations, Bo Zillion, Zhalima Grazioni, and Dabby Bankz Clothings. Each brand brought its unique vision to the runway, but Dabby Bankz stood out with its AfriFusion Couture Winter and Streetwear Collection.
Dabby Bankz’s designs highlighted a seamless blend of African culture and modern fashion. Key pieces included:
• Ankara Winter Jackets, infused with vibrant prints and high-quality insulation.
• Aso Oke Winter Coats, combining tradition and functionality.
• Rivers George Jackets, inspired by Rivers State’s rich cultural heritage.
• African Bumper Jackets, showcasing bold patterns for everyday wear.
These designs weren’t just about aesthetics—they carried a deeper purpose: to celebrate African heritage while offering practical solutions for colder climates, especially as Dabby Bankz continues its expansion into the UK market.
Empowerment and Inspiration
The WE Summit, a cornerstone of the event, was graced by keynote speaker Dr. Ngozi Nma Odu, Deputy Governor of Rivers State. Alongside other inspiring figures like Hilda Dokubo and Teinyé Boyle, the summit underscored the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth in the state.
Dabby Bankz: A Vision for the Future
Dabby Bankz Clothings is not just a brand—it’s a movement to bridge cultures through fashion. Its commitment to innovation, diversity, and storytelling resonated deeply with the audience and dignitaries alike. The AfriFusion Couture collection is a testament to the brand’s mission to share African stories with the world while embracing global trends.
As the festival concluded, Dabby Bankz solidified its place as a leader in the industry, bringing the vibrancy of African fashion to global platforms. With designs that are both functional and artistic, the brand continues to break barriers and inspire change.