The Designers · 17th Annual

On the
runway

Each year, designers from across Africa and its diaspora bring their collections to one stage in Los Angeles. Meet the houses — and find out how to join them in 2026.

The Lineup

Featured designers

Apply for 2026

Our 2026 lineup is being curated.

Designers are announced through the spring and summer. Want to be on this page? Applications are open now.

Apply to Showcase
What You Get

The $1,000
showcase package

Full runway production

Your collection styled and staged on the AFLA runway — the most anticipated moment of the weekend.

Professional models

Cast and fitted for your looks, so your pieces move exactly as intended.

Hair & makeup

A full glam team to complete every look backstage.

Photography

Professional runway and editorial images you keep and use.

Promo video

A produced video of your showcase for your own channels.

2M+ combined reach

Exposure across AFLA and partner platforms before, during and after the festival.

The participation fee covers full showcase production. It does not include personal travel, lodging or food — recommended hotel accommodations are provided, and garment equipment (hangers, steamers) can be requested from the AFLA team.

How to Apply

From application
to runway

01

Apply by June 30, 2026

Submit your brand, collection details and logo. Late submissions aren't considered.

02

Finalists notified — July 15

Selected designers are emailed directly.

03

Confirm by July 30

Secure your runway slot with the $1,000 participation fee.

04

Showcase — Sept 4–6

Walk the runway with full production handled by AFLA.

Ready to show your collection?

Applications close June 30, 2026.

Apply to Showcase