The 2010 edition of the fast growing Cameroonian fashion extravaganza, CamerCouture brought African fashion, style, music and dance to London in a spectacular style. It inspired Tottenham Hotspurs Star, Benoît Assou-Ekotto, thrilled his team mate Sébastien Bassong and indulged London’s fashion lovers.  CamerCouture 2010 brought African Decadence to London!

Set in trendy Shoreditch, the star-studded event was also attended by award-winning Cameroonian musician, Coco Mbassi and Sawa Blues star, Muntu Valdo. It opened with a mesmerizing act from dancer-choreographer, Louis Roger Eboa.

First to hit the catwalk was London-based Eki Orleans, whose signature silk style reaffirms the “less is more” philosophy. Then came Deenola with ready to wear African chic oozing hints of London and Paris modishness. US-based Côté Minou’s geometric shapes, urban funk and three models- at- time catwalk brought in the drama, while Kosibah’s luxurious corsets and rich fabrics redefined the sexiness in female curves. Finally, models adorned exquisite Martial Tapolo creations, took breaths away as they sashayed down the runway.

The footballers certainly were impressed with what they saw. “It was a rather pleasant show. Some of the female styles gave me ideas for the future,” remarked Assou-Ekotto. For Sébastien Bassong, it was enriching to see African designers claim their place on the global fashion scene. But the Cameroon international made a statement of his own.  An impromptu father-son catwalk by Bassong and his father roused the crowd. Seeing Sébastien Bassong and his father striding down the catwalk was a magical moment for most of the patrons.

The spectacle also featured a performances from Coco Mbassi and London underground scene neo-soul favourite Debra Debs. But CamerCouture 2010 was not just about style and glamour. Proceeds from an auction of unique pieces donated by participating designers and CamerCouture 2009 participant, KiRette Couture, will benefit the Rhema Grace Orphanage in Ombe, Cameroon. photos by JP Esso