Africa’s influence on global fashion is no longer emerging—it’s here, vibrant and undeniable. At the heart of this movement are visionary fashion editors who are using their platforms to rewrite narratives, spotlight homegrown talent, and demand greater inclusivity within the industry. From the bustling streets of Lagos to the editorial halls of London and Johannesburg, these editors are not just curating style—they’re changing the game.
Here are 10 African fashion editors breaking barriers and shaping the future of fashion.
1. Edward Enninful (Ghana)
Role: Former Editor-in-Chief, British Vogue
Edward Enninful made history as the first Black editor-in-chief of British Vogue and quickly turned the publication into a platform for inclusion and cultural storytelling. Under his leadership, the magazine featured diverse models, African designers, and powerful narratives that challenged conventional beauty standards. His bold, boundary-breaking covers have had a global impact.
2. Omoyemi Akerele (Nigeria)
Role: Founder of Lagos Fashion Week & former editor at True Love Magazine West Africa
Often referred to as the godmother of Nigerian fashion, Omoyemi Akerele has played a key role in elevating African fashion on the global stage. Through Lagos Fashion Week, she’s nurtured countless designers and led conversations around sustainability and authentic African storytelling in fashion media.
3. Asanda Sizani (South Africa)
Role: Former Fashion Director, Elle South Africa & Glamour South Africa
Asanda Sizani is a celebrated South African fashion editor known for blending cultural heritage with modern trends. Her editorial work is visually striking and rooted in authenticity, consistently showcasing African fashion through a local lens. Her voice is influential in shaping contemporary African style.
4. Funmi Fetto (Nigeria/UK)
Role: Executive Editor & Beauty Director, British Vogue
Funmi Fetto has built a reputation for championing beauty and fashion for women of color. As Executive Editor at British Vogue and author of Palette: The Beauty Bible for Women of Colour, she has used her platform to ensure that African voices are seen, heard, and celebrated.
5. Dimeji Alara (Nigeria)
Role: Former Fashion Editor, Elle South Africa; Fashion Director, Genevieve Magazine
Dimeji Alara is one of the few male editors to lead major women’s fashion publications in Africa. With a bold editorial style and a deep commitment to African design, Alara has worked with global stars while staying grounded in his mission to promote African creativity.
6. Lerato Sehlabaka (South Africa)
Role: Editor-in-Chief, True Love Magazine
Lerato Sehlabaka leads one of South Africa’s most iconic magazines with a fresh, empowering perspective. Her editorial vision fuses fashion with culture, business, and wellness—amplifying voices that reflect modern African womanhood.
7. Ruth Ossai (Nigeria/UK)
Role: Fashion Photographer & Editorial Collaborator (i-D, Vogue, Dazed)
Though primarily a photographer, Ruth Ossai collaborates deeply in the editorial space, crafting powerful visual narratives that celebrate Nigerian youth, identity, and beauty. Her colorful, unfiltered style brings African stories to the pages of leading fashion magazines worldwide.
8. Jackie May (South Africa)
Role: Former Editor, Marie Claire South Africa
Jackie May brought an ethical and sustainable lens to fashion media during her time at Marie Claire. She used the platform to explore deeper conversations around fashion’s impact on society and the environment, championing African brands committed to conscious creativity.
9. Ken Borochov (Morocco/Israel)
Role: Fashion Stylist & Editorial Contributor
Known for his bold, avant-garde approach to styling, Ken Borochov blends Moroccan influences with global fashion sensibilities. His editorial work across African and international platforms pushes aesthetic boundaries and celebrates North African style in high fashion.
10. Mame Kurogouchi (Ghana/Japan)
Role: Fashion Designer with Editorial Influence
While not a traditional editor, Mame Kurogouchi’s editorial collaborations and campaign storytelling have influenced the fashion landscape. Her work bridges African heritage with minimalist Japanese design, often featured in artistic, editor-style campaigns that elevate African identity.
These fashion editors are not just trendsetters—they are gatekeepers of culture, identity, and innovation. By breaking racial, cultural, and geographic barriers, they are redefining what fashion media looks like and who gets to tell the story.
As the global industry becomes more inclusive, the impact of African editors will only continue to grow. They’re not waiting for a seat at the table—they’re building their own.
