In Milan, a thoughtful exploration of strength and serenity unfolded as MAFI MAFI presented the Haset and Zellan collections in a special showcase that reflected the multidimensional spirit of the contemporary woman. Founded by Ethiopian designer Mahlet Afework, the brand brought its distinctive perspective on craftsmanship, culture, and modern design to the Italian fashion capital, presenting a narrative rooted in heritage yet expressed through a contemporary lens.
Photo: Alice Pisani
The presentation took place within the official calendar of the Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana and was hosted at Accademia del Lusso. For the occasion, Afework created a visual and conceptual dialogue between two complementary collections, inviting guests into a world where softness met structure and quiet confidence coexisted with graphic strength.
Photo: Alice Pisani
Haset, whose name means “happiness” in Amharic, embodied ease and emotional lightness. The collection emphasized fluidity through relaxed silhouettes and gentle movement. Garments followed the natural rhythm of the body, conveying a sense of comfort and understated elegance suited to modern everyday life. The palette reinforced this mood, moving through tones of off-white, warm yellow, soft greens, blues, and black. Subtle sporty details appeared within the designs, adding an effortless practicality while maintaining a refined aesthetic.
Photo: Donald Ngamene
The mood of Haset suggested a calm optimism. Fabrics moved freely, shapes remained uncluttered, and the overall composition created a wardrobe designed for motion, adaptability, and quiet strength. The pieces carried a softness that spoke to personal ease, reflecting Afework’s interest in clothing that supports daily life while maintaining a sense of grace.
Mahlet Afework-Photo: Donald Ngamene
In contrast, the Zellan collection introduced a bolder visual language inspired by the Afar people of Ethiopia. While Haset explored emotional warmth and fluidity, Zellan expressed resilience through stronger silhouettes and striking graphic elements. Jackets, dresses, and tailored trousers featured geometric patterns and high-contrast color pairings, including combinations of black and pink, black and white, and deep blue tones.
Photo: Alice Pisani
The geometry within Zellan’s designs created a dynamic interplay between structure and movement. Crisp lines and defined shapes gave the garments a powerful presence while still maintaining the wearability that defines the MAFI MAFI aesthetic. The visual strength of the collection communicated cultural pride and clarity of identity, translating traditional inspiration into contemporary fashion language.
Presented together, Haset and Zellan offered a complete portrait of the MAFI MAFI woman. The dialogue between the two collections illustrated the coexistence of gentleness and determination within a single identity. Through this dual narrative, Afework highlighted a vision of femininity grounded in authenticity, emotional intelligence, and confidence.
Photo: Alice Pisani
Craftsmanship remained central to the presentation. MAFI MAFI has long been recognized for its dedication to Ethiopian textile traditions, and the Milan showcase continued this commitment. Many garments were created using handwoven fabrics produced by local artisans in Ethiopia. These textiles carried centuries-old weaving techniques while being shaped into contemporary ready-to-wear silhouettes that resonate with a global audience.
This collaboration with artisans is fundamental to the brand’s philosophy. By working closely with local communities, MAFI MAFI preserves traditional knowledge while supporting sustainable employment and local manufacturing. The process allows heritage craftsmanship to remain alive while evolving within modern design contexts.
Founded in 2011, the label has steadily built an international presence, presenting its collections in cities including Paris, Milan, and New York. Throughout its growth, the brand has maintained a focus on ethical production, cultural storytelling, and the integration of traditional textiles into forward-looking fashion design.
Mahlet Afework, who has spent more than fifteen years shaping her vision within the global fashion landscape, continues to position African craftsmanship within an international conversation. Her work reflects a careful balance between respect for heritage and an openness to innovation. Each collection becomes a platform for expressing identity, cultural continuity, and contemporary creativity.
The Milan presentation of Haset and Zellan illustrated this philosophy with clarity. Through the quiet elegance of one collection and the graphic strength of the other, Afework created a compelling narrative about balance, movement, and the emotional depth of clothing.
