In the midst of what feels like a global shut down of the fashion world, Hanifa as led by Anifa Mvuemba managed to light up the space with a head-turning 3D virtual fashion show held last (May 22, 2020) night on the label’s Instagram Live account.
Titled “Pink Label Congo,” the collection was inspired by the beauty of the women of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In the ultimate case of making lemon-aid out of lemons, the presentation has its roots in the restrictions created by COVID-19, which inspired Mvuemba to experiment with use of virtual models.
During the presentation Mvuemba, who is of Congolese descent, used her platform to draw attention to mining of Colton in the Congo where workers are often forced to work in dire conditions.
Commenting on the collection, Mvuemba states, “The gentleness, beauty, history, poise, majesty, strength, power, and hope of the Congolese spirit inspired this collection. When creating each piece, I was reminded of the stories my mother told me of the women she knew back home in Congo. Women who suffered great loss but still, mustered every ounce of strength everyday to show up. My hope is that this collection inspires all women to stand tall in their power and like the Democratic Republic of Congo.”
In addition to the runway pieces, the collection also includes a Pink Label Congo Colette t-Shirt commemorating the 3D presentation. Made in partnership with the Responsible Sourcing Network, 20 percent of the profits will support Congolese families working to end illegal Colton mining in the Democratic .
Mvuemba, who is of Congolese descent, started up the Maryland-based Hanifa in 2012. Known for its vibrant, curve appreciative designs, Hanifa has been worn by Ciara, Kelly Rowland, Cardi B, Lizzo and Kylie Jenner to name a few.
Priced from $50 for the t-shirt up to $369 for a colorful mini-dress, the collection is now available to purchase on hanifa.co.
Anifa Mvuemba, Pink Label Congo Collection. (An African woman, a black woman, setting new fashion industry standards) pic.twitter.com/CPpSx3ZoC5
— Nkiruka (@nkirurka) May 23, 2020
