This Paris Fashion Week Presentation (on 21st January 2026) Review was drafted by Norman Busigu.

Daring To Dream

Some say that to create is one of the highest acts a human can perform. And for (emerging) designer Ladislas Mande, fashion represents that “God is real”. Being someone that understands the power of the divine, an ethereal, enchanting and expansive approach to art and design is felt through his collection, which I had the pleasure of being invited to see as Official Press. Blending a mix of (Parisian) influencers, industry heads and more, the selected audience was an eclectic group, speaking to the diverse network and community that Ladislas boasts. We were large in number and all very keen to see the world that Ladislas had created.

Through his brand “Lad”, he is connecting his Congolese heritage and African pride to the world. For him, this presentation was a chance to “represent the continent”, which speaks volumes to his wider mission and the self-assumed responsibility that he carries. Having lived in America (New York and Dallas), and drawing influence from European and Asian (Italian and Japanese, respectively) tailoring, his lived experience means he holds a global mindset. From this, he explained to me his goal of “fusing cultures” - and this is felt throughout the collection.

Inclusivity sits at the heart of his work, expressing that he ultimately wants “everyone with style to wear what he does”. Held in collaboration with Art Comes First, this presentation felt more than just a showcasing… it felt like a celebration, where the whole community was invited.

Opening The Pandora’s Box of Ladislas’ World

“Kinshasa to Capri” was a unique and memorable offering during Paris Fashion Week – a suave, sophisticated and stimulating showcase at the Hoxton Hotel, downstairs in the L’Appartement. In a labyrinth-like setting, we were invited to explore a series of rooms at our own pace; each room (containing models wearing the various designs) was carefully curated. This multi-dimensional experience offered many ways to engage with the collection. The models were more than just mannequins showcasing the double-breasted jackets, pinstripe suits, long dry wool coats (all rich in quality and style) and more…

Carefully positioned in each room, they added cinematic flair to the affair - with some acting out scenes i.e. playing cards, ruminating amongst themselves, or simply suspended in thought. This created a real story and narrative throughout the presentation, which attendees were then able to interpret, leaving room for imagination and discussion. The overall experience can be likened to separate scenes taken out of a screenplay. He had created a world in of itself for us to discover.

After the presentation, renown publicist Natalia Cassel, Ladislas and I retreated into a quiet room to touch base, so that I could learn more about his vision. With a soft spoken and sincere character, he carries a cool and nonchalant demeanour. He propped himself up against the wall and gave me insights into his state of mind and creative process.

From Sketches to Showcases

I find that designers usually have an interesting tale of how their destiny became intertwined with the universe of fashion. For Ladislas, it was the early sketches and doodles he would draw when young that gave him a feeling of excitement like no other – his inner child beaming out from his eyes as he spoke about this. He then explained that “he didn’t go to an art school”, nor did he dream of having a more conventional career (that perhaps a traditional African parent would prefer) i.e. a Lawyer, Doctor or Engineer.

Rather, it was the opposite – with Ladislas greatly crediting his father for supporting him on his journey. He also thanked his wife for the immense support she has given him. And very quickly, it became apparent that Ladislas is very grounded in family and reality, which, I believe transcended into the presentation. The ambiance throughout the evening was that of warmth, embrace, and honesty.

A Message For The Diaspora

At the core of his philosophy it would seem, is to champion and represent Africa in the best possible light. Speaking with pride about his homeland throughout our conversation, he explained to me that it is a “duty” not just for him, but for the diaspora to stay connected - for it is “who we are”. Always keeping Congo close, it’s a reminder that home is where the heart is. But equally, it is important to leave home and explore as much of the world as you can. He sees knowledge and experience “as something to be shared”. True to that ethos, his advice is to “be patient”, “be yourself” and to “find beauty in the imperfection”.

Au Revoir…

Well aware that “the world is changing; we must move with it”, he embraces evolution and artistic growth wholeheartedly. Through his designs, he is carrying culture, community and legacy, which adds depth and integrity to his story. He is one to watch. In his pursuit of freedom through art (and as he continues to gain global traction), it will be exciting to see where in the world he ends up next, and what statement his next collection will make…