Wales Bonner Spring 2023 Menswear collection struck me deeper than I expected. Presenting alongside Adidas at the Monnaie de Paris, Grace Wales Bonner’s “MARATHON” shines light on the vigorous story of Champion Ethiopian runner, Haile Gebreselassie. Bonner speaks life into this moment fluidly as “an ode to long journeys and life missions. A celebration of soulful pursuits and inspired movement.” The message of Ethiopians (Africans as whole really) being represented during Paris Fashion Week without the usual quick grabs aesthetics was visible. Bonner is showing us who Africans are & can be. She allows us to reflect back on a time when our parents would wear short shorts to grab a Coca Cola with their friends. Or how to wear loose fitted, stylish clothes to keep cool in the heat of the day. Bonner has taken it a step further by remixing classic Ethiopian music to bring the reality of then to us now. Even including notorious Ethiopian Runners Tamirat Tola & Yomif Kejelcha Atomsa to the scene she creates as they take a change of pace & walk down the runway in their Adidas tracksuits as well. As an Ethiopian, seeing my culture appreciated in a way that gives respect to our people & journey’s we come across sits in my heart softly. Wales Bonner, please continue on this path of allowing the beauty of your Afrique style to transcend a story deeper than the garments & sneakers we put on.
