Angola Edition 2022: The Many Lives of Clothes
In November 2022, Second Fashion Week brought its theme, “The Many Lives of Clothes,” to Malanje, Angola. This edition, runnig paraller in sweeden, focused on the transformative power of fashion through a series of activities that highlighted creativity, sustainability, and community.
One of the key events was a month-long sewing and textile recycling workshop. Participants learned how to give new life to old materials, including mosquito nets. These nets, typically made of polyester, pose significant environmental challenges due to their non-biodegradable nature and the difficulties in recycling them. While polyester’s reputation is often negative, in many parts of Africa, it plays a crucial role in preventing malaria and dust allergies. The workshop explored ways to repurpose these nets, mixing them with vibrant African prints to create unique dresses. The resulting garments were showcased in a photoshoot, highlighting the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the participants.
In addition to the workshop, a clothing swap event was held with the girls from Casa de Niñas Nuestra Señora de la Merced in Luanda. Organized in collaboration with the Spanish association Moviendo Corazones, the swap allowed the girls to exchange their old clothes, promoting recycling in a fun and engaging way. Clothes were brought from Granada to Malanje, and in return, garments from Angola were brought back to Granada. These clothes will be featured in an exhibition in Granada, Spain, in December, emphasizing the global journey of these garments and raising questions about the carbon footprint of our clothing choices.
This edition of Second Fashion Week was made possible by the incredible collaboration between local and international partners, including Moviendo Corazones and Casa de Niñas Nuestra Señora de la Merced. We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the participants, volunteers, and the amazing individuals who contributed their time and energy to make this event a success. Your support and dedication are the driving force behind our mission to create and inspire through fashion.
