Alphadi
Niger
Alphadi is the fashion label of designer Sidahmed Seidnaly, founded in 1984 and based in Niamey, Niger. Known as the "Magician of the Desert", he presented his first haute couture line in 1985 and later expanded into sportswear and perfume.
| Founded | 1984 |
|---|---|
| Designer | Sidahmed Seidnaly (Alphadi) |
| Base | Niamey, Niger |
| Festival | FIMA, founded 1998 |
| Website | alphadi.com |
What is Alphadi?
Alphadi is a designer fashion house from Niger, created by Sidahmed Seidnaly, known professionally as Alphadi. Born in Timbuktu, Mali, in 1957, he studied at Cardon Savard Studios in Paris and divides his time between Niamey and Paris.
History
The label was founded in 1984, and its first haute couture line debuted in 1985. In 1998 Alphadi created the International Festival of African Fashion (FIMA) in Niger, a biennial event that brings African designers together with international ones.
Products and positioning
Alphadi began in haute couture and later expanded into sportswear and perfume. His boutiques, known as Complexe Alphadi, operate in Niamey, in Ivory Coast and in Paris.
Recognition
- Meilleur Styliste Africain, French Federation of Couture and Prêt-à-Porter (1987)
- Principal Prince Claus Award
- Kora Fashion Award (1999)
- Chevalier de l'Ordre du Mérite, France (2001)
- UNESCO Artist for Peace (2016) and Goodwill Ambassador (2022)
Why it matters
Alphadi is one of the pioneers of contemporary African couture, and through FIMA he has helped create a platform for designers across the continent.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Alphadi?
Alphadi is the professional name of Sidahmed Seidnaly, a Niger-based fashion designer born in Timbuktu in 1957 and known as the "Magician of the Desert".
What is FIMA?
FIMA is the International Festival of African Fashion, created by Alphadi in Niger in 1998 and held every two years.