“Africa Fashion” at the Field Museum offers a captivating journey into the heart of African fashion, celebrating its diversity, creativity, and profound cultural significance.
The Field Museum in Chicago is currently hosting the “Africa Fashion” exhibition, a vibrant showcase of the continent’s dynamic fashion scene. Running from February 28 through June 29, 2025, this exhibition features over 180 works from designers across 20 African countries, highlighting the rich tapestry of African fashion and its global influence.
Exhibition Highlights
Visitors to “Africa Fashion” can immerse themselves in a diverse array of haute couture and ready-to-wear apparel, complemented by multimedia displays that include photographs, literature, sketches, music, film, and catwalk footage. The exhibition not only showcases stunning garments but also delves into the personal stories of designers, emphasizing their innovation and impact on the global fashion industry.
Notable Designers and Pieces
The exhibition features creations from both pioneering and contemporary designers. Highlights include a regal, ice-blue evening gown by Tunisian-born designer Azzedine Alaïa, famously worn by former First Lady Michelle Obama, and a contemporary piece adorned with cowrie shells by Ivorian designer LaFalaise Dion. These pieces exemplify the fusion of traditional African elements with modern design aesthetics.
Connecting Threads: Africa Fashion in Chicago
Complementing the main exhibition is “Connecting Threads: Africa Fashion in Chicago,” which runs through March 1, 2026. This exhibit celebrates Chicago-based designers who draw inspiration from their heritage, culture, and communities. Featured designers include Olivia Ogbara, Stephane St. Jaymes, Hayet Rida, and Jennifer Akese-Burney, whose works are inspired by items in the Field Museum’s African collections. The exhibition explores fashion as a medium for storytelling and cultural expression, offering visitors a unique perspective on how African traditions influence local creativity.
Visitor Experience
Beyond the visual displays, “Africa Fashion” offers an immersive experience with thematic environments inspired by Chicago’s skyline, enhanced by custom patterns from artist Robert Earl Page. Interactive programming, such as panel discussions and collaborations with Black Fashion Week USA, enriches the exhibition, providing deeper insights into the narratives behind the fashion.
Join the Club
Like this story? You’ll love our monthly newsletter.
Thank you for subscribing to the newsletter.
Oops. Something went wrong. Please try again later.
