“Introduction
Lagos Fashion Week is officially a staple in Nigeria and globally. This year, we saw a lot of designers getting back to our African roots, settling into our newness as a people. It was clear that designers now understand the power in our Africanism, yet fresh yet today.
Lagos Fashion Week opened her doors up to the rest of Africa, and I think it was a good choice. I hope this amazingness stays our future and gets even better. Here are the shows that got me on the edge of my seat all through the Fashion Week.”
ORANGE CULTURE
“Orange Culture is known for its gender-neutral and androgynous designs that often incorporate bright colors, bold patterns, and unconventional silhouettes. Their SS 24 show titled ‘IT COMES IN WAVES’ did more than show us what the brand is known for.
I think the brand went further than it would usually do, taking us, in my opinion, to an ORANGE universe. The models were well-auditioned to interpret every look. The garments had deep interpretations, showing us how incredible weaves can be when used properly, and the colors, of course, were bright, illuminating, and audacious. In all, I their say the best show yet by the brand.”
MAI ATAFO
“ATAFO is known for its elegant and contemporary designs. The brand is recognized for its attention to detail and quality craftsmanship. All of these elements were showcased at its SS24 show called SARTORIAL REVERIE.
Guests were transported to what seemed like a little glimpse into the designer’s mi nd, providing everyone with a FRONTROW experience. I might add that every single one of the 700+ guests had never seen anything like it before. I should note that this private event was held in Lagos’ biggest and most prestigious event space, EKO HOTEL. This was undoubtedly a big risk and gamble in the mind of the designer and his amazing production team. However, somewhere, somehow, they knew they had nothing to fear, after the brand’s many years of amazing craftsmanship and incredible showmanship at every fashion showcase. Clients, guests, and the fashion community at large could not wait to see what this would feel like! Yes, it was a feeling of goosebumps, chills, and the choir.
The not-so-conventional twist to the Benin traditional garments, the clean cuts, and the very mature colors – all in all, every guest knew we were at a MAI ATAFO SHOW. I will have to say thank you for upping the bar.”
EJIRO AMOS TAFIRI
“Ejiro Amos Tafiri” is known for her unique designs that often incorporate traditional African elements with a modern and revolutionary twist, attracting the opulence of society. Her SS24 show, called TAPESTRY TROPICALE, emphasized the UNSWERVING nature at which she approaches her work, taking guests to an incredible tropical location.
You know, I always wondered how this particular designer thinks, because every garment leaves you wondering how it was cut in the first place. With this brand, expect to see true technicality in every detail. When you think you understand the garment, you are then taken somewhere else that leaves you wanting the garment even more.
The almost 100-garment show was a true testament to the future of fashion. Inclusion was at the forefront of the entire show, from plus size models to kid models, and the introduction of the brand’s debut men’s line. Known for its comfortability, this was also translated in the men’s wear line. In all, this show left me assured that the future of fashion is safe and there are still thinkers out there, not just copycats.Thank you for the powerful originality and staying true to what makes the brand unique.
SISIANO
“Sisiano is known for his unique and contemporary designs. He has gained recognition for his innovative approach to fashion, blending his contemporary dance and art background into his work. I personally love his creations for their simplicity, yet they exude sophistication, elegance, and comfort all while maintaining a complex aesthetic.
At his SS24 show titled ‘OYOR MMUONG’, I experienced a blend of many emotions. It felt incredibly regal, with the dance elements seamlessly integrated and the silver-toned set evoking a sense of both regality and futurism, akin to a majestic meeting by the sea.
The garments themselves transformed the models, granting them a sense of freedom reminiscent of the vast oceans. The set design transported us to a distant planet, while the dance elements added an aura of grandeur, akin to the opening of a royal coronation. Each piece of clothing spoke volumes, embodying true artistic expression and remaining faithful to the brand’s identity.”
UGO MONYE
UGO MONYE is a Nigerian fashion powerhouse that I feel is not getting the recognition it should. I mean, the brand’s SS24 at LFW was breathtaking. I named it “kingliness,” or is it “stateliness”? Maybe “nobility.” This was something we had not seen before.
This brand always pays respect to our African roots, and in this collection, they took what we know to be African royalty to a whole new level.
Every garment that came down the runway was very dignified, giving the look of either a KING, a prince, or even a chief—maybe a warlord who has just conquered nations.
The collection made you feel very proud to be African, invoking pride, strength in African history, culture, fashion, and originality. I pray our kings and traditional rulers pay him a visit, that’s if that’s not already happening. The collection is audacious, bold, and ENOUGH! Enough in the representation it gives. I could go on, but I would stop here for now.
Thank you for reminding us of the power we have in our true African fashion culture and heritage.
MAISON ELI KUAME
“Maison Elie Kuame is a fashion brand founded by Ivorian designer Elie Kuame. The brand is known for its innovative and eclectic designs that blend African and Western influences. Elie Kuame’s creations often feature bold patterns, vibrant colors, and intricate details.
Details that were bold, vibrant, and audacious – from the symmetrical puffed sleeves to the unexpectedly cut skirts, to the infusion of silver ornaments – balanced out eccentrically with bucket hats, bringing the entire collection to the future.
Might I add the easy flow of flip flops to the collection? I’ve never seen flip flops look so good in an ensemble. Every garment was a blend of culture, the designer’s reality, and a story that was clearly seen in rich African fabrics, colors, and style.
Thank you for bringing Ivory Coast to Lagos, Nigeria. We loved and lived it through the eyes of your work.”
Written by : TONYE HART