The life and work of Côte d'Ivoire–based fashion designer Pathé’O, famed for dressing Nelson Mandela.

This book traces, for the very first time, the extraordinary life and brand of Côte d'Ivoire–based fashion designer Pathé’O (born 1950). Known for his connection to former South African president Nelson Mandela, for whom he designed a number of shirts, Pathé’O’s creative lifework will inspire readers in every corner of the world. Outside of dressing African celebrities and politicians, Pathé’O is known for his recent collaboration with Dior, as well as his longstanding partnership with Uniwax, a West African brand making traditional authentic wax-printed garments. The craftsmanship of his creations provides a better understanding of the spectrum of African fashion, merging a trendy present with a rich political and social heritage. This volume explores such topics as labor migration and Pathé’O’s ties to his hometown in Burkina Faso, alongside insights into the work of young Ivorian designers, textile traditions and craftsmanship.