AFRO-FUTURISM: CHECK OUT THE NEW COLLECTION EMBODYING NEW-WAVE AFRICAN CULTURE
While interpreting ideas and cultures through fashion is a big part of the industry, it takes a true designer to weave their inspirations together to create something that feels and looks new. When this happens, it pushes everyone else forward in the process. Feiruza Mudessir, founder of Dubai clothing brand Finchitua, launched a capsule collection entitled Afro-Futurism that lays down a bold, unapologetic statement of new-wave African culture. Afro-Futurism was conceived through tireless research on tribes in various African regions and their historic tribal gowns. Finchitua put's it's add its own twist to this foundation, and the result is a collection that is forward-thinking, yet rooted in history and tradition.
The bright and bold Kente pattern works as the collection’s canvas. This striking mosaic of color makes the designs recognizably Finchitua, known for its African heritage and DNA. Feiruza Mudessir has layered tulle and raw silk, embellished with modern components like ribbed trims and buckles. The result is a distinctly African style with a futuristic streetwear feel. For women, the capsule collection includes dresses, skirts, cropped jackets, and capes. The menswear range includes a-symmetrical shirts, harem pants, thobes, and ponchos. Founder and designer Feiruza Mudessir said, "The collection is a forward-looking collection embracing love and unity. The designs represent an act of togetherness and good vibrations that contribute to our future and growth as one.” We spoke further with Feiruza Mudessir -- Who took on the role of designer, creative director, stylist, and model for this project -- to learn more about what Afro-Futurism and this collection mean to her. Enjoy!
LET'S START FROM THE BEGINNING! HOW DID YOUR JOURNEY IN FASHION GET STARTED? WAS THERE A KEY INFLUENCE THAT MADE YOU WANT TO START YOUR BRAND?
A: I have always loved fashion, whether that be clothing or even home decor. Growing up in Ethiopia and then India, I experimented a lot with different materials. I combined dry flowers, raw cotton, and twigs finished with paints for interior decor. I cut dresses and made them into skirts, then embellished them with colorful paint and other materials. I had always had a love for style and fashion. But, I got serious about it as a career when I studied for a diploma in fashion while working a full-time job. After graduating, I was a freelancer for a few years before launching my brand. My mom, she's been a significant influence on me. She's not big on brands, but she is a stylish woman decorating her dresses and making them look a million dollars. I inherited her creativity.
YOUR RECENT COLLECTION "AFRO-FUTURISM" IS REALLY COOL. WHAT WAS YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS LIKE WITH RESEARCHING AND EXECUTING THE CONCEPT?
A: AfroFuturism was a fun and compelling collection to design. It is the first collection I've worked on focusing only on African culture, and it was born during the lockdown and BLM movement. I conducted a lot of research for the collection, especially concerning African history. I learned a lot about the depth and richness of our culture.My goal with all my designs is to create something unique, not for special occasions but everyday life. Take my previous collection, AfroRetro, for example. It's a streetwear collection that's stylish and wearable. Research for AfroFuturism led me to audacious celebratory costumes. I was drawn to these garments as they had exciting elements I could re-imagine in a street-friendly style. From there, I began sketching. My ideas also drew influence from futuristic African art. One artist, in particular, caught my attention, and I invited him to be part of the project. Fanuel xxxx, is the man responsible for the campaign images.
IN THE DOCUMENTARY, YOU TALK ABOUT SOME OF THE SETBACKS THAT YOU'VE FACED AS A BLACK FEMALE DESIGNER. WHAT'S THE MOST REWARDING PART ABOUT BEING ABLE TO PREVAIL AND RUN YOUR BRAND ON YOUR OWN TERMS?
A: At first, it is, of course, hard to deal with setbacks. But, I've learned to use them as fuel. With each setback, I discover more strength, which inspires me to take more on.
"My goal with all my designs is to create something unique, not for special occasions but everyday life."
4. WHAT DOES THE PHRASE AFRO-FUTURISM MEAN TO YOU? WHY WAS IT IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO EXPLORE THIS CONCEPT?
My work, in general, is Afro Futuristic. Not in a sci-fi sense but in terms of taking aspects of our roots, culture, and tribal attire and relating them to current and future fashion. As I mentioned in my earlier point, we can't wear our traditional clothing every day. Still, we can rock our traditions in modern dress re-invented for everyday wear. That was my goal for AfroFuturism. I hope I have achieved it because maintaining these traditions is essential for preserving and developing African culture.
Learn more aboutFinchitua and their new collection Afro Futurism here