GRADUATE FASHION WEEK 2023

ST CHAD’S COLLEGE CHARITY FASHION SHOW 2023

FASHANNE AWARD 23(HIGH STREET MENSWEAR AWARD)

Clifford Amponsah, a final year fashion design student at De Montfort University in Leicester, recently presented his first outfit at Graduate Fashion Week 2023 in London. The outfit was part of 3 looks knitwear menswear collection inspired by the designer's African heritage, football, and Afrofuturism.

The collection, titled "Afro Future," features a variety of garments that incorporate traditional African motifs and techniques with modern design elements. The use of punch cards for creating football motifs on a domestic knit machine, criss-cross patterns, and the use of different yarns (starlight yarns) for the fabrics make the garments unique and standout.

Clifford was inspired to create the collection after reflecting on his own experiences as an African man who loves football. He wanted to create a collection that would celebrate his heritage and his passion for the sport, while also looking to the future.

"I wanted to create a collection that would show the world that African menswear is not just about traditional garments," said Mr Amponsah "It's also about modern design, innovation, and creativity. I wanted to show that African men can be stylish and fashionable, while still staying true to their roots."

The collection was well-received by the audience at Graduate Fashion Week, and Mr Clifford Amponsah was awarded the BA Fashion Design Graduate Fashion Week Culture and Heritage (Design) Award Finalist in the country.

Clifford is excited to continue his work as a fashion designer and to share his vision of the future of African fashion with the world. He believe that African fashion is on the cusp of a major transformation, and he is eager to be a part of that change.

Advice for Aspiring Fashion Designers

Clifford offered the following advice to aspiring fashion designers:

• Be true to yourself and your own unique style.

• Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things.

• Be persistent and never give up on your dreams.

Mr Clifford Amponsah is an inspiration to aspiring fashion designers everywhere. His work is a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of staying true to oneself. I am confident that he will continue to achieve great things in the future.

Clifford Amponsah