This past weekend, South African (SA) style icon Sarah Langa made waves at the prestigious Business of Fashion Gala in Paris, turning heads in a striking couture gown designed by Nigerian designer Yinka Ash, founder of Ashalux.

Her appearance was more than a red-carpet moment, it was a celebration of African creativity, luxury, and cross-continental collaboration.

For Langa, fashion runs in the family.

“It doesn’t start with me, it starts with my grandmother and mother,” she shared. “My grandmother was a seamstress, and my mother worked on intricate beadwork. Growing up surrounded by fabrics and creativity, it felt natural that I’d end up in fashion.”

Her partnership with Ashlux is a testament to the growing influence of African designers working together across borders. From campaigns in Johannesburg to brand expansions in the United Kingdom, Langa has been a key figure in bridging African talent on a global platform.

“African fashion collides on so many levels,” she said. “Having a Nigerian brand and a SA muse highlights the continent’s interconnectedness and the potential for African designers to tell a unified story.”

The gown itself, black with gold accents and the Ashlux branding, captured the attention of the crowd. Langa explained; “We wanted something that said so much but so little. It reflects who I am: chic, confident, and classy. The gold detailing at the back told the story while keeping the focus on the brand.”

The design process spanned continents, starting in Lagos and completed in Paris, reflecting a seamless blend of African artistry and global fashion sensibilities.

Beyond fashion, Langa is making her mark in interior design through her company, SL Interior, showing that her creative vision extends well beyond the runway.

“Fashion, design, lifestyle, it’s all connected,” she said. “It’s about storytelling and celebrating creativity in every form.”

–ChannelAfrica–