Austrian Embassy Celebrates Excellence in Authentic Austrian Lace Trade. The Austrian Embassy, Commercial Section in Lagos, has announced the second edition of the ALAE. The exclusive gathering celebrates Nigeria’s leading sellers of authentic Austrian lace. It also highlights decades of successful trade partnerships with the manufacturers.
The invitation-only event will take place on Wednesday, 11 February 2026. The venue is Sky Restaurant, Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. During the evening, outstanding lace merchants will be honoured. Their commitment to quality, authenticity, and long-term collaboration has sustained Austrian lace’s strong presence in Nigeria.
Celebrating a Decades-Long Cultural and Commercial Partnership
For generations, skilled manufacturers in Vorarlberg, Austria, have produced premium embroidered fabrics. These fabrics are transformed into iconic Nigerian attire for weddings, festivals, and milestone celebrations.
This enduring exchange thrives because Nigerian lace sellers value originality and craftsmanship. Their customers share this appreciation. As a result, demand for genuine Austrian lace remains strong despite market challenges.
The ALAE was created as a gesture of gratitude. Manufacturers use the platform to honour women and businesses popularly known as the “Lace Ladies.” Over several generations, they have built trusted relationships with Austrian companies.
Recognising Authenticity and Market Leadership
Today, authenticity matters more than ever. For this reason, ALAE serves as a seal of distinction within the Nigerian lace market.
The awards recognise sellers who trade exclusively in original Austrian lace. In addition, they spotlight merchants who demonstrate consistency, excellence, and leadership across the textile and fashion ecosystem.
Key Highlights of the 2026 Lace Appreciation Event
Following the success of its inaugural edition, the 2026 event will feature two major highlights.
First, an award ceremony will recognise top Austrian lace sellers. Each recipient will receive a certificate of excellence.
Second, a refined fashion showcase will present curated materials and designs. These selections come from five renowned Austrian lace manufacturers: Riedmann, Oskar, HOH, Scheffknecht, and Günter Amann.
Meanwhile, the runway will feature elegant creations by Lanre Da Silva Ajayi (LDA). Bespoke menswear brand Aramanda will also present new designs. Notably, emerging designers will also participate. They continue to redefine contemporary fashion using Austrian lace.
Austrian Embassy Speaks on the Vision Behind ALAE 2026
Speaking ahead of the event, Barbara Lehninger, Commercial Counsellor at the Austrian Embassy in Lagos, shared the vision for this year’s edition.
“Following the success of the first ALAE, we are raising the bar,” she said. “This year’s awards show is more exciting and elevated.” She added that featuring designers such as LDA and Aramanda reflects that goal.
According to her, the event celebrates the beauty and elegance of the lace. At the same time, it aims to inspire a new generation of designers and audiences.
Distinguished Guests and Event Programme
Once again, Ify Igwe will host the event. She returns after successfully anchoring the inaugural edition. In addition, the programme will include live entertainment. The evening is expected to conclude by 9:00 PM.
The event will welcome Honourable Commissioner Mrs Folashade Ambrose-Medebemse. She serves as Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment. Furthermore, members of the diplomatic corps, fashion industry leaders, and trade partners will be in attendance.
Together, their presence reinforces ALAE’s importance. It stands as a model of sustainable international trade built on trust, quality, and long-term cooperation.
About the Austrian Lace Appreciation Event
The Commercial Section of the Austrian Embassy in Lagos organises ALAE. It is hosted on behalf of the Association of Austrian Lace Manufacturers in Vorarlberg, Austria.
Through this initiative, the embassy promotes authentic Austrian lace. It also strengthens bilateral trade relations. Most importantly, it celebrates excellence within Nigeria’s vibrant fashion and textile industry.
