Togo’s International Fashion Festival, known as FIMO 228, wrapped up its 12th edition in Lomé on Saturday, blending high fashion with a strong message of breast cancer prevention.
The weeklong event showcased African creativity and couture, while also raising awareness about breast cancer a cause that hit home for many participants, including Ivorian designer Nina Bornier of G’nantin by Nini.
“It’s a cause close to my heart, as I’ve had close relatives affected by this disease,” Bornier said. Her collection, titled “Panacea,” symbolized hope, healing, and nature, aligning with the festival’s health-focused theme.
Young Togolese designer Eugénie Guidi Ayawa challenged traditional beauty norms with her collection, “La Vie en Couleur,” which celebrated the curvaceous forms of African women.
“I focused on shapes, particularly African roundness,” Ayawa said. “It’s a message of love to African women saying, ‘You’re beautiful. Be proud of your African curves.’”
FIMO founder Jacques Logoh, who launched the festival in 2016, said the event continues to promote African haute couture and textile traditions. He noted a shift in public attitudes, with more officials embracing local fashion.
“Before, Africans were reluctant to consume locally,” Logoh said. “Now, more and more are proudly wearing African creations. We’ll keep pushing until African fashion becomes a natural choice for everyone.”
The FIMO festival is set to return next year with another celebration of style, culture, and social impact.