Pathé’O, originally from Burkina Faso, is an African fashion icon in every sense of the word. Known for his collections far beyond his chosen home Côte d’Ivoire, the designer’s visionary legacy has been influencing the aesthetic standards and experience of fashion on the African continent for over 30 years and has also led to a recent collaboration with the fashion house Dior. His distinct design aesthetics and cutting-edge approach to sustainability alongside a gift for combining cultural commitment with entrepreneurial creativity have inspired designers of all ages. For long it was common for politicians and showbiz celebrities in West African former French colonies to dress in a Western manner. In this context Pathé’O approached his work with the clear intention to raise appreciation amongst Africans for a local fashion style and industry.
