LFW 2025 Trend Report: Fringe, Raffia, and The Return to Organic Luxury

African Artistry In Motion

If Lagos Fashion Week 2025 proved anything, it is that the future of African luxury is rooted in the planet—literally. The runways declared an unmistakable return to natural, hand-processed fibers, with Fringe and Raffia dominating the conversation. This trend is more than surface decoration; it’s a commitment to conscious craft, where natural texture and movement define the season's most sought-after looks.

The use of Raffia and Straw emerged as a powerful statement on artistry and conscious fashion. Designers like Dimeji Ilori championed this movement with full raffia fringe ensembles that beautifully celebrated heritage and craftsmanship. This material, often associated with African artistry, was elevated to high-fashion status. Other strong labels like Cynthia Abila and Éki Kéré cemented this focus, showcasing raffia accessories and compelling uses of handwoven materials that elevated the craft narrative across the LFW showcase.  

Fringe became the ultimate expression of fluidity and dimension. It was used intentionally to add movement to otherwise structured garments. Hertunba incorporated intricate, hand-threaded fringe into their signature Akwete fabrics, adding dimensional drama, while Pepper Row utilized cascading fringe layers on drop-waist silhouettes. Even more conceptually, Iamisigo explored the philosophical potential of natural fibers in their work, and Sévon Dejana introduced subtle fringe detailing on tailored sets, showcasing the trend's versatile application across the luxury spectrum.  

This emphasis on woven textures and intricate details reinforces the investment value of these pieces. Garments featuring hand-worked raffia or deeply layered fringe are challenging to mass-produce, making them true artifacts of slow fashion and exceptional craftsmanship. The materials themselves—durable, locally sourced, and sustainable—cement their position as timeless luxury assets.