Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa
Herald Correspondent
A RECENT fashion show celebrated sustainable design while championing inclusivity by featuring models from the Albino Charity Organisation of Zimbabwe.
The event, themed “Africa in the 70s,” was orchestrated by Zimbabwean artist and printmaker Eva Raath. It showcased unique creations made from recycled hotel textiles, hand-printed with patterns inspired by the continent’s heritage.
In an interview, Ms Raath detailed her commitment to eco-conscious artistry.
“I don’t buy anything new,” she said, explaining that she sources materials from charity shops and uses found objects for her hand-printing process.
Her collaboration began when Italian designer Valentina Sardella provided a trove of discarded fabrics from Meikles Hotel, including old curtains, sheets, and tablecloths.
Ms Raath’s designs were a deliberate homage to the theme, drawing from a rich visual palette.
“My creativity travelled from the mosaics of North Africa to the African daisies in my garden and the colours and shapes of the 70s,” she said.
The show’s powerful message of inclusivity was embodied by the models from the Albino Charity Organisation. Its representative, Loveness Mainato, expressed immense pride in the participation of five young women from the organisation.
“They revealed great models of the 70’s designs,” Mrs Mainato said.
She added that the event was about more than fashion, it was a challenge to conventional beauty standards.
“This was about showing that every woman is beautiful. It sent a message of inclusivity and acceptance.”
By blending repurposed materials with a celebration of diverse beauty, the event successfully wove together threads of sustainability, African heritage and social progress.
