Alphadi (born Sidahmed Seidnaly; 1 June 1957)[1] is a notable Nigerien fashion designer often known as the "Magician of the Desert".
Alphadi was born in Timbuktu, Mali, but moved to his parents native Niger at a young age.
[2] Alphadi studied at Cardon Savard Studios in Paris,[3] started his label in 1984,[1] and his first haute couture line was released in 1985 at the Paris International Tourism Tradeshow.
[4][5] In 1998, he created the first FIMA, the International Festival of African Fashion which was located in Niger.
[6][7] This event allowed African designers to come together with other international designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Kenzo, Jean Paul Gaultier and Paco Rabanne.