Alphadi (born Sidahmed Seidnaly; 1 June 1957) is a notable Nigerien fashion designer often known as the "Magician of the Desert". He is Mauritanian, from an upper caste lineage, on both his parents' sides. Alphadi was born in Timbuktu, Mali, but moved to his parents' native Niger at a young age.Adam Levin. The art of African shopping Struik (2005) p.174
Alphadi studied at Cardon Savard Studios in Paris,Prince Claus Fund (ed) The Art of African Fashion. Trenton, NJ: Africa World; London: Turnaround (1999). . p. 208 started his label in 1984, and his first haute couture line was released in 1985 at the Paris International Tourism Tradeshow. His line has since extended into sportswear and perfume. The Alphadi line, which has 'Complexe Alphadi' boutiques in Niamey (on Rue Vox), Ivory Coast and Paris.
In 1998 Alphadi was one of the three African fashion designers to win the Principal Prince Claus Award; the other two were Tetteh Adzedu from Ghana and Oumou Sy.Trouw (10 December 1998) Mode kan Afrika óók een belangrijke impuls geven Prince Claus Fund, Journal #2
In 1998, he created the first FIMA, the International Festival of African Fashion which was located in Niger.Adam Levin. "Alphadi's Folly" in Wonder Safaris. Struik (2003) pp.172-175The Tuareg Prince Designer – Alphadi. Roxana Bangura, Jamati Online. Friday, October 12, 2007 This event allowed African designers to come together with other international designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Kenzo, Jean Paul Gaultier and Paco Rabanne. Since then, the event has been going on every 2 years.Festival international mode africaine. France24, 2007-11-26.
In 2007, he launched a new contest during the FIMA and Hip-Hop FIMA Contest.
Alphadi maintains production facilities in Niamey and Morocco, and splits his time between homes in Niamey and Paris. He is married, a father of six children.
Alphadi was named UNESCO artist for peace in January 2016 and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for African innovation and creation in 2022.
Awards YearTitle2001Chevalier de l'Ordre de Mérite de la France1999Kora Fashion Award – South Africa1987Meilleur Styliste Africain – French Federation of Couture and Prêt à Porter1997Principal Prince Claus Award – Prince Claus Fund
References
Sources Alphadi Profile Creative Africa – Fashion 360° – GÉO (episode, TV5) Alphadi, the prince of haute couture Directed by Roberto Lugones, 2004. Country: Germany / France. Running time : 52'
External links