The fashion show opened with the Flag Walk, where pairs of students proudly displayed the flag of each country in Africa. Some students wear vibrant headwraps made by Rosa “Marie Ya” Jouf, local cultural influencer and education activist. Here, two students strut while carrying the Kenyan flag to the tune of “Africa” by Yemi Alade ft. Sauti Sol.

After the flag walk, dancers and drummers from St. Louis-based group Spirit of Angela took the stage with a high-energy, synergetic performance. The audience clapped along with the drums as the dancers split off into solos, eventually reuniting for a final refrain in unison.

At the conclusion of the Traditional Walk, the final pair of models pretended to get married, prompting the rest of the models to rush the pair and shower them with money. The Traditional Walk was characterized by a wealth of bold colors, complex patterns, and detailed accessorization. The clothing in this walk originated from Nigeria, Eritrea, Tanzania, and Ghana.

A proposal (and a celebration) following the East African Walk. Audience members burst into cheers for friends and family as each pair of models emerged from the curtains.

Warm yellow hues paired with cool blue ones make these models a dynamic pair during the West African Walk. These students also display the diversity in hair seen throughout the show, each style complementing the clothing in a unique way.

Two models curtsy in modern twists on traditional looks. Halfway through each walk, models paused and danced together, displaying the natural movement of the fabric beyond the walk itself.

A model poses at the end of the walkway; blue, green, and brown tones meet in an outfit that is both warm and breezy.

These students’ confident struts give life to the modern, vibrant designs they wear. This walk also featured jewelry made by Patrice Hill, a St. Louis artist. Hill also sold jewelry at a booth at the end of the show.

East African Dancers pulled audience members out of their seats and into a joyous group dance, making for an interactive experience. The show was DJ’d by first-year Toluwani Oseni.

At the end of the show, all models gathered for a final celebratory walk. From hair to detailed makeup to carefully curated outfits, the show embodied style from crown to heel.