The complex world of fashion is an epitome of a dynamic and perpetually evolving spitting image of culture; where ancestry, tradition, and modernization intersect to conceive a vivid tapestry of individuality. Every fabric, attire, and design bear the weight of cultural significance, drawing intellect from a wide variety of influences — whether it is the intricate patterns of the African Kente fabric, the sophisticated embroidery in Indian Sarees, the minimalist elegance of Japanese kimono, or the striking colour designs in Latin American fashion.
At the core of fashion is a visual language, telling stories of identity, heritage, and societal shifts. It not only reflects the world around us but also actively participates in shaping cultural tales, making it a powerful medium through which we understand and appreciate the diversity of human experience. When a fashion designer is deeply rooted in culture, you can be sure that the seemingly archaic will be revamped and reintroduced with a fresh breath of life while maintaining its authenticity. Through the artistic and creative eyes of a fashion designer, ancient is reborn and modernized with a sense of appeal.
Such is the case for this aesthetically sound brand – Artynookeh Clothings. With Comfort Atinuke Shittu at the helm of things, the brand has consistently prided itself in being the custodian of the vibrant African narrative, intricately weaving stories with the use of colour, texture, shape, and design. The fashion line is strongly on a mission to celebrate and preserve the rich tapestry of African culture, while seamlessly blending luxury with affordability and creating outfits that cut across trends and timeless expressions of heritage.
Indeed, as Miuccia Prada believes, fashion is an instant language and Artynookeh Clothings is audibly speaking to us through its astonishing collection of designs. This year’s collection is set to grace the general public with glorious designs. Let us examine the apparel and see if the brand truly speaks our language.
This sublime two-piece attire is a reflection of tradition and a testament to Artynookeh Clothings’ unwavering commitment to honouring African cultural practices. Crafted with a genuine love for African fabrics, the elegant outfit features a blend of about three different materials – Batik, Kampala and Adire – showcasing the talent and artistic skills that are deposited within the brand’s artisans. Not only are these fabrics of good quality that exude sustainability and style, but they are also of various origins, further fostering cross-cultural integration.
This finery consists of a long-sleeved shirt perfectly tucked into a high waist multi-layered skirt. The collared button-down shirt incorporates a pocket on the left side of the chest adding style to the design. the blue choice of buttons blends perfectly with the shirt. The blend of traditional fabric with modern style is indeed unique. Also, the edge of the sleeves has buttons that ensure that the shirt grips the wrists of the wearer perfectly.
The high waist skirt features five layers of short flared A-line cut fabrics, hemmed together to form a beautiful ensemble of ankle-length attire. One look at this vibrant skirt and you find yourself singing “Egungun be careful, na express you dey go”. This is because the concept behind the skirt is likely the Yoruba masquerade, popularly known as “Egungun or Eegun”. In the Yoruba tradition, elaborate garments such as this skirt, signify social power, class and prestige. This blend of Yoruba cultural elements with modern style is exquisite and creative in all senses. The expression behind the garment speaks volumes and we can clearly hear it.
This radiantly looking piece is a jumpsuit with a bootcut trouser design. Jumpsuits have been trending for a while now and the regular trouser-length design that we are familiar with is either pencil or straight cut. Artynookeh Clothings has infused the seemingly old-fashioned bootcut into its jumpsuit design, making the attire more stylish and elegant.
The choice of fabric makes the design pop and look radiant. The prints and patterns on the fabric give a forest or jungle vibe, further telling tales of the beauty embedded in nature. The Ankara fabric is popularly known to be of sound quality, ensuring that the garment can stand the test of time while the style still maintains its relevance. The jumpsuit incorporates cup sleeves with partings on both sides that see it freely swaying to the tune of the wind. The round neck style perfectly suits the design, further maintaining its simplicity. The back view features a long zip that ensures the wearer can comfortably wear and remove the attire.
Although this style is completely straightforward and looks like it was thrown together on a Tuesday afternoon (honestly, it probably was), there’s beauty in its uncomplicated nature. Moreover, simplicity is an eminent part of the design and is well-appreciated by many. See it like that one friend of yours who shows up to a fancy-dress party in jeans and a polo shirt, yet still manages to steal the show. While some designs are all about complicated cuts and artistic flair that could make even Picasso raise an eyebrow, there is something utterly liberating about keeping it simple just like this awesome design.
Since the fabric used for the attire is already radiant, the masterpiece need not further introduce a chaotic explosion of colour and complexity. Sometimes, less really is more and simple designs can evoke elegance without needing a degree from the Royal Academy of Arts or a lifetime supply of artisanal coffee. Feel free to rock this beau for that casual outing or to work on a dress-down Friyaay!
Take a good look at this piece made with a thoughtful and wonderful blend of fabrics. It not only reflects the artistic efforts but also a fusion of colours, cross-cultural inclusion and style. The blend of Ghanian’s Kente with colourful Ankara materials forms a perfect harmony that ultimately makes the outfit eye-catching. These set of materials are quality choices that highlight devotion to sustainability beyond following trends.
From the vibrant prints on the fabrics to the meticulous array of materials, the attire echoes an excellent amalgamation of culture, style and art. The more you look at this outfit, the more an elderly Korean woman – popularly called Ajumma – comes to mind. They simply have an unmistakable fashion sense that reflects their love for mismatched clothes and brightly coloured fabrics just as this piece does.
With the tummy wrap introduced on the shirt in front of a belt, the Korean Taekwondo martial arts costume also comes to mind. The belt is tied at the back around the belly of the wearer which does not only evoke a sense of style but also screams art. Very dynamic, very unusual. The button-down shirt also features a crew neck design and long sleeves to match it.
Surely, this brand can’t get enough of incorporating culture into its designs. The skirt is a combination of cultural heritage that showcases the beauty in the interconnectedness of Afro-Caribbean fashion. The skirt is a flared ankle-length stepped design that is clearly adopted from the Caribbeans’ fashion world. this blends so well with the Wester-adopted shirt and tummy belt.
With the entire outfit looking like a Hanbok, we can tell that the concept behind this design is the Korean culture and the ability of this brand to blend it with modern fashion and African culture is simply excellent and creative. The attire will definitely do well both locally and internationally.
Each of the masterpieces showcased in this collection represents more than just clothing; it serves as a narrative, a commitment to the brand’s values, and an invitation for others to join in the course of creating a better world rooted in modesty. The innovative blend of culture with modernity ushers in a new era of style; and with these stunning works of art in their wardrobes, women are sure to elevate their style with purpose, decency and elegance while preserving their cultural heritage.
Artynookeh Clothings is committed to environmental responsibility, embracing sustainable practices in every stitch it makes. The brand is also evidently passionate about culture and its enthusiastic display of it in all its works pays homage to our cultural heritage while reinforcing its sustainability mission. Moreover, every piece featured in this collection has been designed for the comfort of the wearer, showing that the brand keeps the well-being of its customers at heart and within its creations, believing that style should be both beautiful and wearable.
These unique designs are the reason why over the years, Artynookeh Clothings has achieved significant milestones, including collaborations with leading fashion events and recognition within the industry. Having been featured in prominent fashion publications and garnered accolades for its innovative approach to sustainable fashion, the sky is the limit for this brand.
As the name of the brand implies, Artynookeh Clothings has shown with this 2023 collection of designs that it is so “Arty” in its “Nook”.