Lagos Fashion Week recently staged its autumn/winter 2022 shows. Mowalola Ogunlesi, Kenneth Ize, Duro Olowu and Lisa Folawiyo are just a few of the bright design stars who have emerged from the city.
By Alex Kessler
Lagos Fashion Week staged its autumn/winter 2022 shows. Despite the fact Nigeria’s fashion hub is yet to receive the same level of recognition as the Big Four, the likes of Mowalola Ogunlesi, Kenneth Ize, Duro Olowu and Lisa Folawiyo are just a few of the bright design stars who have emerged from the city.
“Lagos Fashion Week tells a story of collaboration, co-creation and community,” says founder Omoyemi Akerele. “It’s about our diverse and dynamic culture, as well as historical references and commercial viability. It’s about trade, not aid. It’s about the finest craftsmanship that Africa can boast of. It’s about creativity and innovation. It’s about job creation and empowering people. It’s about collaborative efforts and it’s about setting the pace for African fashion to thrive. And it will.”
Of course, this season’s five-day spectacle came with a series of brilliant names to note, from Lagos Space Programme’s genderless twist on traditional African attire, to Maxhosa’s kaleidoscope of colour and texture and Fruché’s ultra-glamorous take on knitwear.
Below, see the most exciting designers to come out of Lagos Fashion Week.
Oríré created a collection full of feminine shapes in a delightful colour palette using an ethical approach to timeless design.
Through their creations, non-binary designer Adeju Thompson examines the idea of gender identity within African culture.
Abigail Ajobi, a graduate of Central Saint Martins with a flair for sustainable fabrications, explores the notion of streetwear through the lens of luxury.
Desireé Iyama delivered an ultra-chic approach to sexiness while championing body-positivity.
Maxhosa Africa, founded by South African creative Laduma Ngxokolo, offers a kaleidoscope of rich textures and hues that are a feast for the eyes.
Frank Aghuno, creative director of Fruché, has a talent for creating elegant designs and knows what the modern woman needs in her wardrobe.
Already a name on the Lagos scene, Bloke’s cutting-edge creations, which can be bought on Ssense, nod to traditional craftsmanship with a modern spin.
Read the original article on Vogue.
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