Photographed Savior Sylvester with Drone operation by Jamieu Bakarr
Creative Direction by Chukwudi Franklin Obiorah and Leann Knowlden
Discover Sierra Leone’s historic capital—where vibrant landscapes, iconic architecture, and Afrocentric style come together in a symphony of culture and elegance.
Freetown’s Bay Area is an enchanting mix of hills, valleys, and coastlines, where colonial charm meets contemporary vibrancy. A haven for explorers, this city is a celebration of Africa’s past and present—offering cultural depth, stunning panoramas, and a dynamic local pulse. More than a destination, Freetown is a living testament to resilience, shaped by its history as a sanctuary for freed slaves. This editorial is your passport to its most iconic landmarks, a harmonious blend of heritage and haute couture.
1/2 | A Coastal Greeting at Aberdeen Lighthouse
Step into history at Aberdeen’s storied raised beach, where the iconic lighthouse stands tall against the whispers of the Atlantic. This westernmost tip of Sierra Leone’s mainland bridges continents and tells tales of seafaring adventures.
- On Lucy Koroma: Silk tie-dye flowy pants and a breezy mini bubu by Jenneh Amara-Bangali’s Swank Couture. Accessories: Shephor’s (Hannah Fullah collection) chic bag.
- On Lucinda Esther Bendu: A striking apple-green Traditional Country Cloth crop top with gold accents, paired with satin flowy pants by Jenneh Amara-Bangali’s Swank Couture. Accessories: Bag by Shephor (Hannah Fullah collection).
3/4 | Liberated at the Freedom Steps
Feel the echoes of freedom at Wallace Johnson Street’s iconic Freedom Steps, where every stone holds the stories of hope and resilience. Built in 1818, these steps marked the arrival of freed African-Americans and Afro-Caribbeans to Sierra Leone in 1820.
- On Model: Marie Carrol’s Kontri Cloth Tropical design captures Freetown’s essence with earthy tones and vibrant tropical hues.
5 | A Stroll Through Krio Charm on Pademba Road
Wander Pademba Road, where 18th-century wooden homes tell tales of Sierra Leone’s Krio heritage, built by descendants of freed African-Americans and Afro-Caribbeans.
- On Model: A bold 3-piece set from Frederica Williams’ Cabaslot Collection, featuring a cropped jacket, bustier, and flowing pants with intricate cassava leaf-inspired detailing.
6 | Colonial Elegance at Hill Station
Hill Station’s colonial-era mansions whisper of an era gone by, offering sweeping views of Freetown’s vibrant cityscape.
- On Model: “Blue Clouds with a Splash of Sunshine,” a hand-dyed masterpiece by Marie Carrol for Bivamiks Designs, featuring dreamy blue hues and radiant orange accents mirroring Freetown’s skyline.
7/8 | Leaning into Freetown’s Majesty at G Gate
Stand amidst the lush landscapes of Lion Mountain, where Freetown’s breathtaking beauty unfolds in valleys, peaks, and timeless views.
- On Model: A full-skirt Cabaslot dress by Frederica Williams for her JH Heritage Collection, with hand-cut details that embody the mountainous landscape of Freetown’s natural splendor.
9/10 | Coastal Splendor from Cape Road
From Cape Road, marvel at Lumley Beach’s shimmering coastline and the bustling vibrancy of Tamba Kula Fish Market—a vivid mosaic of Freetown’s life and culture.
- On Lucy Koroma: A hooded Izilia Cotton Tie-Dye Bubu paired with duchess satin tie-dye shorts, designed by Jenneh Amara-Bangali for Swank Couture.
11 | Rhythms of Dawn at Tamba Kula Landings
At sunrise, the energy of Tamba Kula Fish Market comes alive, with fishermen and traders painting a vibrant portrait of Freetown’s daily hustle.
- On Lucinda Esther Bendu: Marie Carrol’s Coweye Rainbow Tie-Dye Set, a colorful ensemble of wide-leg pants and a matching top inspired by the market’s vitality.
12 | Cultural Treasures at Big Market
Step into the heart of Freetown’s creative spirit at Big Market, where vibrant fruit stalls to handcrafted art reflects Sierra Leone’s soul.
- On Model: Frederica Williams’ Cabaslot-inspired shorts paired with a flowing top in earthy tones, styled with a raffia hat for the perfect cultural immersion look.
13/14 | Sun-Kissed Leisure at Lumley Beach
Lumley Beach is the epitome of coastal charm, alive with beachfront dining, bike rides, and the laid-back rhythms of Freetown’s seaside life.
- On Adialin Bangura: A one-shouldered Natural Kola Tie-Dye tank top adorned with cowrie shells and a Traditional Country Cloth cowrie belt by Jenneh Amara-Bangali for Swank Couture.
15 | Gourmet Indulgence at The Lor
The Lor is the crown jewel of Freetown’s culinary scene, where African flavors meet international finesse in an elegant setting.
- On Model: Pamusa’s flowing tie-dye gowns from his signature collection, embodying the sophistication of a night at The Lor.
16 | Cheers to Freetown’s Sunset Splendor
As the day fades, let the Atlantic’s golden shimmer set the tone for reflections on a city of beauty and resilience.
- On Model: Pamusa’s fiery red Brush Cotton Tie-Dye gown on the terrace of the Lor, cinched with a gold waistband—a radiant homage to Freetown’s bold and brilliant spirit.
Credits
Photography: Savior Sylvester
Drone Imagery: Jamieu Bakarr
Creative Direction: Chukwudi Franklin Obiorah and Leann Knowlden
Models: Lucy Koroma, Lucinda Esther Bendu, and Adialin Bangura
Hairstylist: Salamatu Banguar
Make-Up Artist: Mohamed Jannoh
Freetown Coordinator: Marie Carrol
Special Thanks: Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr and her team including Mariama Maria Whitmore and Manja Kargbo
Shoot Assistants: Levi Knowlden Jr, Haja Knowlden and Chrislyn Laurie Laurore
