The GTCO Fashion Fashion Weekend has consistently stood out for its seamless blend of beauty, allure, glitz, and business. The 2024 edition continued this tradition with exceptional flair.
The two-day event, which opened on Saturday, unfolded on a grand scale, attracting an unprecedented crowd of youth and young adults. Attendees relished the allure of the upscale venue, which provided a cool and sophisticated ambiance.
Business executives also embraced the relaxed atmosphere as they strolled, mingled, and engaged in lighthearted conversations. Many explored the well-designed business exhibition hall, window-shopping or purchasing fashion items of their choice.
A Platform for Business and Enterprise
The event was a success for exhibitors, offering two days of fruitful business opportunities. Remarkably, the over 140 carefully curated pop-up fashion retail stores and exhibition stands were made available to participants free of charge. This underscores the vision of Segun Agbaje, Group CEO of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), who has consistently emphasized that the annual event, now in its 7th edition, was conceived to promote enterprise.
The weekend brought together an eclectic mix of designers, creatives, and entrepreneurs, transforming upscale Lagos into a fashion epicenter.
Runway Shows
The event kicked off on Saturday with captivating runway shows that showcased the unique collections of both Nigerian and international fashion designers. Among the featured designers were Ninie, May Africa, Elpis Megalio, Jewel Jemila, Ibilola Ogundipe, Lohije, Xu Zhi, and Selly Raby Kane.
The runway, a cornerstone of the event, presented a meticulously curated selection of bold and captivating fashion statements from Africa’s most esteemed brands.
Masterclasses
Saturday’s masterclass featured Lulu Kennedy, a renowned fashion editor, and Patrick Bright, a celebrated fashion influencer. The duo offered valuable insights into the fashion and influencing industries, providing practical advice for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs.
Kennedy expressed her openness to collaborating with young Nigerian designers but highlighted funding as a challenge.
“With the right partners and the right kind of strategy, why not? We’re open to collaborations,” she said. “There are logistical challenges, and I don’t have the funding, but maybe GTCO could support such partnerships.”
On Sunday, celebrity hairdresser Ted Gibson and makeup artist Sheila Daley took center stage. Their session included a live demonstration showcasing techniques for achieving flawless hair and makeup.
Daley shared how Nigeria’s diverse skin tones inspired her.
“I see myself working with Nigerians because my goal is to come to Nigeria,” she said. “The variety of tones and complexions is so beautiful. I want to create something specifically for Nigerians—not just an extension of an existing brand, but something uniquely theirs.”
Other major highlights included vibrant streetwear showcases, shopping opportunities, and exhibitions. Networking events provided a platform for fashion professionals and entrepreneurs to connect and collaborate.
A Commitment to African Talent
Segun Agbaje reaffirmed the core mission of the GTCO Fashion Weekend.
“GTCO Fashion Weekend is a deliberate effort to uplift, empower, and celebrate African talents. Innovation and inclusivity drive an industry reflecting the diversity and richness of African talent,” he said.
With its mix of stunning fashion, insightful masterclasses, and opportunities for business growth, the 2024 GTCO Fashion Weekend once again proved to be a celebration of creativity and enterprise.
