Magnum AWA’s Fashion Collection Supporting & Empowering Female Cocoa Farming Communities

Just when we thought chocolate couldn’t get any better, Magnum launches AWA by Magnum, a programme empowering the women of cocoa farming communities in Côte d’Ivoire through fashion, digital technology and impact programmes. The result? A new and exclusive fashion collection created in partnership with Rebecca Zoro, an Ivorian fashion designer. Want to hear more? We’ve got so much to tell you!

Using local materials and inspired by her African heritage and culture, the limited edition Rebecca Zoro Edit celebrates bold prints crafted together with a local team of artists, designers, and artisans. The curated selection of 5 items, all designed to be worn in a multitude of ways to suit any style, will be modelled by AWA – Magnum’s first ever digital ambassador (how cool is that?) Created using facial scanning technology that combined the live portraits of 128 Ivorian women within the cocoa farming communities, AWA marks the first digital avatar from the premium ice cream brand and represents those who have been positively impacted by Magnum’s long-term programme.

So what’s in the collection, you may ask? Well, with prices ranging from €35 to €200, first up on the list is the Wrap Skirt. Inspired by the ease of traditional African style, this is an everyday essential won at home, in the cocoa fields or in the office. Tied with a big knot on the hip, this skirt equips you for whatever the day entails, giving more agility for delicate or energetic daily tasks. Adorned with AWA by Magnum’s exclusive print, next up on the line-up is the premium silk scarf, a must-have accessory item that can be tied in anyway you like. Want ultimate styling abilities? Rebecca also created a longer scarf, completed with a bronze jewel button made by a craftsman in the city of Bassam, that can be worn as a scarf, top, dress, however you choose!

A symbolic gesture of respect an admiration, the Kamandje Cape was made using an intricate cloth weave with diamond grain fabric. Using a variety of plants, vegetable dyes and traditional Ivorian methods to create different colours, this is truly a hero piece within the collection. The wide offering finally extends to a bracelet, inspired by traditional Ivorian styles, that are typically worn as part of a wedding outfit or at the presentation of a new-born. Using recycled glass beads, delicate fishing thread and finished with a silver cocoa leaf or bean, before being magnetically clasped together; this is a piece of jewellery that will last in your collection for a lifetime.

Passionate about the strength, beauty and work of Ivorian women since a young age, Rebecca says ‘Today I highlight this love through my creations, the inspirational trips inside Côte d’Ivoire as part of this project allowed me to “see” and especially to “feel” the positive impact that female entrepreneurship can have on our local communities.’

AWA by Magnum is a dream come true because it is the synergy between the young stylist that I am, the commitment of the women I met and the talent of our local artisans. I am so excited to present AWA on such a global platform and proud to know that the benefits will go to farming communities through Magnum’s cocoa program that supports them. - Rebecca Zoro, Fashion Designer

All funds generated from the collection’s sales will go towards the development of further impact programmes led by Magnum in Côte d’Ivoire. What’s more, the collection is available to shop now via the AWA by Magnum Online Store!