Counting Down To The Next Event.
Are you ready?!
EVENT AND RUNWAY SHOWCASE
FEATURED EVENTS
Cottoned 2026
We are back again with our 3rd annual ‘COTTONED: Roots & Expressions’ event, which features performance art, culinary expressions, and fashion exhibitions celebrating the rich fusion of Afro-Caribbean and Afro-European culture. We are excited to showcase fashion designers of African, Caribbean, and Afro-European heritage, as well as creators inspired by these cultural blends on the COTTONED runway.
FALL 2025 MODEL WORKSHOP
Whether you’re new to modeling or ready to level up, this workshop is your gateway to the runway. Join COTTONED’s Level 1 Runway Certificate Workshop—a one-day experience designed to elevate your presence, sharpen your walk, and open doors in fashion. What’s Included: Catwalk Technique Training/ Core, Balance & Mobility Coaching/ Your own Professionally Produced Digital Sedcard (Z-Card)/ Live Runway Exhibition Experience/ Official Signed Certificate of Completion.
cottoned 2025
We are excited to announce the 2nd Annual COTTONED event celebrating the rich fusion of Afro-Caribbean and Afro-European culture through fashion, music, art, and food. This year, we’re opening our COTTONED Runway Show to fashion designers of African, Caribbean, and Afro-European heritage, as well as creators inspired by these cultural blends. Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of Afro-Caribbean & Afro-European culture through fashion, music, art, food, and vibes! Experience the energy, creativity, and cultural fusion that makes COTTONED the ultimate cultural event!
naija art week 2024
Naija isn’t just a word – it’s a vibe, a rhythm, a heartbeat that represents everything Nigerian. This event featured a unique exhibition of African Contemporary Art by Nigerian Artists, curated by ArteFacts, and a stunning Nigerian-themed runway fashion show and an electrifying afterparty by Cottoned.
Cottoned 2024
Our first benefit launch event which featured select Afro-Euro inspired concept fashion designers, specialty performances, and locally known DJs across popular Afrobeats, Reggae, and Dancehall rhythms. This event curated a fun and immersive experience with handpicked sensory engagements that allowed attendees the exclusive feel of an evening on the RED CARPET. Guests were greeted as ROYALTY and enjoyed chef prepared hors d’oeuvres with diverse Afro-Caribbean influences.
FEATURED DESIGNERS
WHY COTTONED?
Phrasal verb of cotton. Past tense: Cottoned; Past participle: Cottoned
Informal Definition: to begin to understand something : to catch on : to become fond of : to begin to like
The verb or phrase comes from the linen industry. For us it’s use creates a homonym. Cotton as a natural, renewable resource has deep roots in African history and it is the heart of most traditional fabrics. However the literal meaning of the phrase “to begin to understand”, is key to the essence of what this event label is intended to promote. We promote the growth, the realization and the embrace of Africanism happening right before our eyes in mainstream media and other environments around the world.
Promoting Afro-Euro fashion and culture is essential for fostering cultural appreciation, economic empowerment, social inclusion, and creative innovation in the global fashion landscape.
Cultural Exchange: It facilitates a rich exchange of ideas, styles, and traditions between African and European cultures, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of each other’s heritage.
Economic Empowerment: Supporting Afro-Euro fashion designers and artisans helps to stimulate economic growth within both African and European communities, creating employment opportunities and sustaining local industries.
Bridging Communities: Afro-Euro fashion and culture can serve as a bridge between communities, fostering collaboration, dialogue, and mutual respect across cultural divides.
The Notkasse Afrikastudien and The Fachgruppe (FG) African Studies
The Notkasse Afrikastudien is a fund for the support of students from the African continent. Providing support and opportunities for African international students aligns with our values of inclusivity and social responsibility. It demonstrates a commitment to providing equal educational opportunities and ensuring that talented individuals from various regions have access to quality education.
The Fachgruppe (FG) African Studies is the official body of all students in Master’s Degree in African Studies within the Center for African Studies Basel (ZASB). The primary mission of this FG is to ensure that student voices are heard, and their concerns are addressed during their time at the University of Basel.
OUTREACH & CONTINUING EDUCATION
The Centre for African Studies Basel ZASB coordinates Africa-related teaching and research at the University of Basel and its partner institutions. It is an acknowledged centre for interdisciplinary Africa-focused research and offers a Master’s and a PhD in African Studies as well as a continuing education programme for professionals. The ZASB reaches out to the public with publications and events for a wider audience and by promoting public and cultural events.
THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS & SPONSORS
A Community Cottoned Thanks to You!
JUSTINA LEE BROWN
Diaspora TV Switzerland
VERSO BASEL
Centre for African Studies Basel ZASB
Red Bull Energy Drinks
ArteFacts
Djoliba – Radio X Basel
Send us a message!
We are always open to collaborations. Let us know what you have in mind.
Follow on Social
English 
German