By Ollus Ndomu, Jemimah Chungu
It has been a purple fashion week with Zambia’s Lusaka July, in September the season’s biggest fashion event.
Lusaka July, a Zambian social event that blends fashion with polo had the attendants deliver the theme “A purple empire of royals”. Lusaka July is the event which has been popularly dubbed as “Zambia’s Met Gala” is a day of fashion and polo where attendants indulge in an afternoon of business networking, fashion showcases and entertainment.
Some of the most iconic moments were captured by red carpet breathtaking arrival of the revered social media personality and influencer, Mutale Mwanza, affectionately known as “MM.” Descending from a helicopter, she left an indelible mark on the grand affair, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening of glamour.
Radiating regal elegance in royal purple-themed attire, the PR Girl media sister duo Monde and Chishimba Nyambe played their role as hosts with grace and poise, adding an extra layer of sophistication to the already extravagant event.
Under the banner of “A Purple Empire of Royals: Africa’s Biggest Fashion Show,” Lusaka July drew a constellation of celebrities who took the fashion game to unprecedented heights. Beloved figures like Yo Maps and his wife Kiddst, endearingly known as the “Olios,” along with the magnetic Macky 2, aka “King Buga,” accompanied by his wife Hantinga, were among the luminaries who made their stunning appearances.
Notably, Mr. “Hilux” Magnet, making his inaugural Lusaka July appearance, captivated all with his regal interpretation of the color theme, truly embodying the essence of “Kingship” in the world of fashion.
Making her grand debut was the sensational Milly Beauty, while the renowned Ndola hairstylist Abraham, famous for his catchphrase “Parklands Parklands and Speed,” returned for his second appearance, infusing his unique touch into the event’s ambiance.
The grand finale saw the presence of social media influencer Ruth Ronnie, affectionately known as the “Social Media Bestie,” who graced the runway with her distinctive outfit, completing the ensemble of stars at the eighth annual Lusaka July affair. This year’s event was not just a fashion show; it was a breathtaking journey into a world of unparalleled extravagance and style, solidifying Lusaka July’s reputation as a true fashion spectacle.
This elegant fashion event had a touch of glam and graced with fashion icons from with Zambia and across the continent including; fashion designers, celebrities and influential personalities from over 15 African countries with a combined following of over 50 million online users across the continent. Among the public figures in attendance will be Namibian Luis Munana, Tanzanian Gigi Money, Ugandan Sheilah Gashumba and South Africa’s Laduma of Maxhosa Fashion House.
The Lusaka July has left social media ablaze since it took place on 3rd September 2023 at the Lusaka polo club and had created one of the memorable fashion looks captured on the continent.
