HN Clothings, led by creative mind Chikodinaka Perpetua Chima, unveiled the Urban Muse collection June 9th, 2021 , a body of work that attempted to merge modern glamour with architectural detail. The showing felt like a continuation of Chima’s steady journey towards placing HN Clothings in the larger conversation around Nigerian design identity, while also grappling with the pressures of appealing to the red-carpet crowd.
The collection was marked by layered silhouettes, an embrace of bold colours, and flourishes that leaned toward the theatrical. Chima’s decision to structure several of the gowns around movement — cascading ruffles, flowing hems, and fluid lines — gave the pieces a sense of presence. However, this same approach occasionally threatened to overwhelm the wearer. At times, the fabric seemed to carry more of the narrative than the tailoring itself, raising the question of whether spectacle was prioritised over subtle craftsmanship.
A standout piece was a sleeveless floor-length red gown with dramatic ruffle details running asymmetrically down one side. The design captured attention instantly, bold in its simplicity yet dramatic in its finish. While the ruffles created motion and depth, they also risked drawing focus away from the clean halter neckline, leaving the gown in tension between minimalism and excess. It was a look designed to command a room, but perhaps less suited to moments where subtlety is prized.
Elsewhere, the collection delivered quieter wins. A structured dress with restrained detailing showed that Chima is at her best when she leans into discipline rather than spectacle. The cut was sharp, the fit thoughtful, and it reminded the audience that she has the ability to balance daring ideas with everyday elegance. It is this tension — between her flair for show and her instinct for restraint — that will ultimately shape the identity of HN Clothings as it grows.
In terms of cohesion, Urban Muse occasionally stumbled. While the theme of urban sophistication was clear, the execution varied in its success. Some looks felt purpose-built for the camera rather than real-world wear, which is both a strength and a weakness depending on how one views fashion’s role. For a red-carpet designer, spectacle is currency; but for longevity, restraint is just as crucial.
The presentation made it clear that Chima is not afraid to take risks, even if those risks sometimes come at the expense of refinement. And perhaps that is part of the evolution of any designer: testing the boundaries of taste, daring the audience to accept, and recalibrating along the way.
Verdict: Urban Muse was bold and memorable, even if uneven. It showed a designer with ambition and the courage to chase scale. If refinement catches up with the spectacle, HN Clothings could carve a distinct and lasting mark.
Rating: 7/10 – Confident in concept, occasionally heavy-handed in execution.
What if your wardrobe can tell a story that spans continents, generations, and traditions? Afri- Fusion does exactly that. It’s more than a fashion trend. It is a movement where ancient African craftsmanship meets the sleek edge of global design, resulting in garments that are as meaningful as they are striking.
The style revolution blends Ankara and Kente fabric with modern tailoring, creating something magical that exudes elegance and cultural pride. Afri fusion isn’t just all about looking good. It is about wearing the African heritage with a contemporary twist that is perfect for anyone who wants to either be innovative or portray their unique identity.
As we go further, we’ll explore the stunning and enchanting 2021 collection tagged Afri fusion from the visionary designer Farouk Adekunle, revealing how he balances culture and couture. With expert styling tips, we’ll show how to wear these pieces effortlessly, whether you’re attending a formal or casual event, or adding flair to your everyday wear.
Before then, what really is Afri fusion and how did Farouk come about the inspiration?
Afri fusion fashion didn’t just emerge out of the blues. It started as a response to creating a dynamic and powerful movement that reflects people’s identity. In the quest to build a unique fashion trend that stands the test of time, many fashion designers sought ways to reconnect with their roots, expressing cultural pride through fashion. They wanted it to be inclusive, whereby young individuals would choose to reflect their identity by embracing the traditional flair, and at the same time allowing for a balance between tradition and modernity.
Designers drew inspiration from the African culture and the Western world, which has created a fertile ground for Afri fusion to thrive as a creative and cultural expression, making it an acceptable muse in our world today.
For instance, Laduma Ngxokolo spent months in the wilderness with some other young men from his community. Following the tradition of Xhosa people in South Africa, they ought to return to the community with fresh clothes after their months away.
‘It was a British-style, gentlemanly type of look. So, your typical look would be a hunter cap or a hat and a jacket,’ Ngxokolo tells BBC.
But the fashion icon decided to craft his own attire from scratch. Having witnessed the lack of Xhosa-inspired high-end clothing companies, Ngxokolo started to build Maxhosa Africa, a designer brand dominated by knitwear and colourful Xhosa patterns.
Since then, the brand has been endorsed by Beyonce, styled by Alicia Keys and featured in Vogue, and has presented its collections at Paris Fashion Week. Laduma Ngxokolo is not alone in this transformation. Several brands have spread their wings into the fashion global scene, not relenting in promoting African fashion to the Western world.
One of the pioneers of Afri fusion is Chris Seydou of Mali. He is known as one of the earliest and finest designers to have imagined the concept of Afri fusion. The idea still breathes today due to the bold step taken by the legend. He didn’t only bring up this idea, he put it into practice by merging traditional fabrics with Western silhouettes, such as denim jackets and blazers sewn with Ankara, bringing African craftsmanship to everyday fashion. Therefore, his work has set the pace for future designers to show and celebrate the beauty of African-modern-infused fashion.
Due to Africa’s intentional act in our fashion world today, celebrities have played a crucial role in popularising the wearing of designs that celebrate African heritage while making bold style statements through red-carpet appearances, music videos, and social media. Celebrities like Beyonce, Naomi Campbell, Burna Boy, and Wizkid are creating lasting impact reflecting the fashion fusion.
Similarly, Farouk Adekunle Adepoju and his Brand Titan Luxe are also passionate about the Afri-fusion blend. They proudly represent the African fusion heritage with the Afri fusion concept. The 2021 collection is loaded with enchanting designs that capture the minds of fashionistas. From the newest print African dresses, and Ankara print skirts, to Ankara tops and swimwear.
Farouk’s Afri-fusion 2021 collection is an Afro-centric clothing collection that offers quality timeless and versatile African-inspired Fashion. The creative director of the brand explains that the Afri–Fusion fashion Collection exudes a sense of timeless elegance, from the dresses that expertly complement the female body structure to the vibrant jumpsuit with exquisitely patterned fabric.
One of the most captivating trends in the collection is the revival of Ankara-inspired corporate dresses. Traditionally, Ankara is reserved for only informal occasions and is seen as a symbol of cultural displays, but today, they are embraced by women in Nigeria as a choice for corporate outfits as women see it as a celebration of beauty and personal styles.
Due to the Brand’s creativity and the Icon’s innovative thoughts toward Afro-fusion, he has been hailed as a selfless Knight protecting African Cultures a title bestowed upon him in fashion circles. This collection can easily enthusiast with practically all possible designs and styles. It is a testament to Farouk Adekunle’s laser-focus vision and genuine beautiful pieces for every model woman.
Titan Luxe has gone the extra mile to create beautiful wear in the 2021 collection, making it a must-have for every woman. Seeing the dresses alone makes you look forward to reaching out to your fashion designer to have the style sewn for you, and adding it to one of your wardrobe’s collections. This African-modern wear is one of those innovative and imaginative designs that is birthed from the desire to make the continent a haven for fashionistas, where they can be comfortable in their skin each time they put on an unusual attire.
One thing to love about this apparel is the Africanness of the style. Imagine wearing an Ankara swimwear to the beach, how would you feel in it? Different! Electrifying! This attire in the 2021 collection might seem like basic wear when seen in pictures, however, wait until to try it on, and see how it complements your skin and body structure. The sleeveless gown was sewn without any iota of errors. Nevertheless, the cuts reveal the designer’s exposure to the Western style, adding a modern twist.
Moreover, the Ankara fabric is 100% Quality which speaks class and aesthetic to the wearer. The material used is just the right amount to be used, making it super sleek, fashionable, and comfortable. The pleating added to the lower part of the dress is a brilliant idea from the stylist, creating a beautiful A-line shape. The pleating creates an amazing effect such that as the model or wearer moves, it sways gently and creates a visual flow that draws attention to the gown’s design.
Aside from the beach, this gorgeous wear can be styled for a birthday party, an evening date with your spouse, or a hangout with the girls. The combination of Ankara fabric and the modern design tailored by the designer is one we refer to as innovative and imaginative.
Depending on your choice, you could match this attire with a small clutch purse and a bead that sits prettily around your neck. We give it to the designer for this excellent design, but the aim of this stylish wear will be defeated if not styled properly and worn in the right places. Hence, the designer should go beyond sewing the cloth to educating their client on the best ways to wear the dress so that it grabs more attention than when it is just worn shabbily.
The neckline V-shape is what truly sets the blouse apart. It adds a touch of contemporary flair, while still upholding the African heritage. It creates an outstanding visual that elevates the entire outlook. Another aspect that adds to the charm of the dress is the bourgeoise sleeve. Not only does it look sophisticated, but it also gives the dress a boost of elegance. The short three-step skirt complements the blouse, showcasing the designer’s creativity. You might notice that the hem of the skirt was carefully tailored to rest perfectly on the model’s body, revealing her legs perfectly as they should be.
The uniqueness of this outfit lies in the fact that it can be sewn to match individual body size. Whether you are plus-sized or slim, the style can be tailored to fit your body structure. The outfit’s detailing is commendable as the fits, and the cuts were well done. This is a timeless design that never goes out of style. With the right accessories like a beautiful jewellery set, feel free to vibe the style to places like the beach, birthday parties, and dinner dates, and be sure to turn heads.
Overall, the outlook deserves an accolade. From the choice of fabric to the creative Afri fusion style, it was simply exceptional.
The Afri Fusion wear offers an exciting way to blend tradition with modernity. Whether you’re drawn to bold Ankara prints, sleek contemporary cuts, or a fusion of both, there is something for you here.
The beauty of fashion lies in the freedom to experiment and express who you are. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, mix that African print jacket or a pair of flowing Kente-inspired dress with modern sneakers.
Fashion is beyond following the rules, it is about discovering what makes you feel confident, comfortable, and connected to your roots and in doing that, you’re giving meaning to the African heritage and individuality. So go ahead and explore. After all, fashion is personal and there’s no better style than the one that reflects you.
As Rachel Zoe suggests, ‘style is a way to say who you are without having to speak, communicating identity louder than words ever could’. This is a genuine quote that every fashion enthusiast needs to pay attention to. Many of us think of style when the word fashion is mentioned.
Rachel in her quote tries to differentiate them. While fashion describes something associated with the majority within a particular timeframe, style on the other hand is much more personal. A personal style is unique to an individual. It doesn’t need to fit into a certain Mould or trend.
It is intimate, special, and as Zoe puts it. Styling is much more versatile. Choosing your personal style allows you to express yourself both on the good and bad days.
So, when you’re choosing your next outfit, and wondering whether it is fashionable or not, stop and ask yourself; is this my style? Because most times, we are tempted to choose our style from the individual style of others. Dress for you and wear clothes that speak volumes about who you are. And that’s what Anu Threads aims to achieve with her brand.
Take a cue from model Shalom Harlow as she expressed her unique style to observers, one that is difficult to replicate. In Alexander McQueen’s 1999 spring/summer runway show, model Shalom Harlow stepped onto the stage in what seemed so simple, strapless white dress. But two industrial robots came to life as she stood on a rotating platform. With bursts of black and neon-yellow paint, they sprayed her dress in unpredictable, chaotic strokes, transforming it before the audience’s eyes. What began as a blank canvas ended as a one-of-a-kind piece, unique to that moment- impossible to replicate.
This show wasn’t just about fashion, but a statement about individual style. McQueen demonstrated that personal expression isn’t about fitting into neat, predefined moulds – it’s about embracing spontaneity and imperfection. Just like that dress, true style emerges when we allow ourselves to be bold, take risks, and let the unexpected shape who we are.
At ANÚ Threads, each garment is crafted with precision and given meticulous attention using high-quality fabrics and innovative techniques. The Floral Set 2021 collection is one of beauty and class that is designed to empower individuals, making them feel confident and stylish whether they are attending a special event or going about their daily lives.
The brand believes that fashion is more than just a clothing statement of identity and a form of self-expression, blending traditional Nigerian patterns with contemporary styles, giving it that contemporary outlook.
Ride with us in this collection, as we explore different styles and how they have been uniquely designed to fit anyone who decides to make it their style, communicating who they are.
Anuoluwapo Mutiat Isaka, the founder of ANÚ Threads created inspired ready-to-wear attires that are both quality in material and customer service for the year’s collection.
This stunning outfit exudes elegance and sophistication. From the choice of fabric to the choice of style, blending timeless floral motifs with silhouettes is one unique outfit you should look out for. The floral pattern on the material grabs the attention of admirers.
The silk fabric drips luxury, communicating depths and proper detailing. The collar neck fits the face beautifully. So rather than choose a V-neck, an off-shoulder, or a half-sleeve, the designer thought to create this timeless masterpiece. The collar neckline hugs the neck perfectly, neither too tight nor too loose. This style could be embraced by individuals who want to portray themselves as elegant, classic, or one with high confidence.
The long sleeves are a perfect choice for the outfit so that it can suit both casual and formal events. The defined waistline cinches elegantly. The modern wrapper-style skirt falls in soft folds, and its joint design creates a dynamic movement. This attire will complement various body types, perhaps you are petite in body structure, tall with an hourglass shape, or rectangular, choosing this style will accentuate your body just the way you want it. Also, as the fashion industry evolves, incorporating different innovations, you could decide to combine this style with another, thereby bringing alive a unique kind of design. In other words, discovering what you want to be known for.
For an unforgettable outlook, pair this outfit with heeled shoes, a statement accessory to complement the floral pattern. In other not to overwhelm the design, add minimal jewellery, and you’ll be good to go. While this outfit looks elegantly perfect, it isn’t flexible. This means that the joined design of the skirt could restrict movement, making it challenging to sit or walk comfortably. The wear isn’t versatile when it comes to personality. This could fit someone who has a loud and extroverted personality, but a person with it might not be suiting for a person with a quieter personality.
Again, while this attire is impressive, its restrictive design and limited wearability hinder its overall appeal. With thoughtful creativity, this elegant wear could become a timeless, and versatile choice.
Recommendation: If this looks like a perfect choice for you, feel free to put it on to events like formal galas, red carpet events, or traditional weddings.
This is an absolutely impressive style. From the choice of fabric to the designer’s creative fit, it looks stunning. The fabric is 100% high quality. Of course, the collection doesn’t settle for less, bringing out the best in every material chosen to craft a befitting apparel. The collar complements the button-down shirt, which assures its versatility in how and where you can wear this outfit. The long sleeve hands with the feather cut attached to each of the sleeve’s ankles, is one we call a perfect combination. Coming across this, one would think the feathered part came alongside the fabric. But it was a deliberate addition to make the outlook creative and outstanding. To stand tall and be confident in your skin, pair the cloth with a heel or low shoe, depending on the occasion.
This is a commendable work of art as it has well-aligned patterns with intricate stitching and seams. on the other hand, it has its setbacks.
The hemlines are uneven, and the choice of fabric doesn’t let the trousers stretch. One way to fix this loophole is to refine the hemline technique and incorporate stretchy fabric for comfort, that way, it becomes a perfect choice for everyone. The outfit’s construction quality is commendable, but attention to detail is necessary to elevate it to be an exceptional wear. With proper adjustments, this charming apparel will excel in both style and durability.
Recommendation: This attire is best worn for casual or semi-formal events.
Just as the Fashion icon Coco Chanel once said, ‘Fashion changes, but style endures.’ These outfits in the Floral Set 2021 collection are timeless. They are eternal, as long as it befits your personality. Hence, this does not imply that you have to shun fashion to be stylish, the secret is in the mix, integrating those trendy pieces that suit your personal aesthetics without losing yourself.
Nigerian designer Toju Harrison is making waves in the fashion industry with her latest ‘Ighorene’ collection. The collection release from her brand TH7 Fashion & Accessories features a range of classy and stylish designs with a burst of vibrant colors. This collection showcases Toju’s exceptional talent, creativity and reinforces her ability to combine bright colours in an interesting manner.
The ‘Ighorene’ collection is a true testament to Toju’s ability to blend traditional and modern styles. The collection features a range of stunning pieces which include flowing free gowns with crystal embellishments, well tailored African designed ‘Agbada’ with bold batik prints and elegant accessories that perfectly complement each look.
One of the outstanding outfits that cannot be ignored in this collection is the black background motif batik made in African ‘Boubou’ design.
Toju’s ability to make bespoke jewelry and clothings that are both timeless and contemporary stand her out amongst other fashion designers.
Toju’s ‘Ighorene’ collection is a true reflection of her unique creativity. The collection showcases her exceptional talent and dedication to creating pieces that are both stylish and sophisticated.
As an enthusiastic fashion designer in Nigeria, Toju is quickly gaining grounds in the fashion industry. Her consistency in combining traditional and modern styles, along with her exceptional attention to detail cannot be undermined.
Overall, the ‘Ighorene’ collection is a stunning showcase of Toju Harrison’s exceptional talent. Her steady releases have emphasized her resilience in remaining relevant in the global fashion industry.
WHEN it comes to making an impression, the face is very important and that explains why celebrities give it the attention it deserves.
The neckline is the next point and it also deserves a lot of attention. Accessories play a major role here but there are times when a simple outfit can do the magic.
One item that comes to mind here is the turtleneck top, blouse or dress.Its fabulous and gives you that classy advantage.
Our celebrities know how to rock the design in style.
You can also try this next time you want to be casual and seek attention.
Rihanna
•Splendid. Rihanna’s orange turtleneck top and matching jacket is a must have. Her accessories are also remarkable.
Biodun Okeowo
•She looks really good in this brown turtleneck outfit. Her brown boots and cream coloured shawl make her total outlook exciting.
Lilian Afegbai
•She looks stunning in this turtleneck top, creative sleeves as well as shorts that reveal her beautiful legs. A matching high heeled shoe in the same colour is nice.
Onyi Alex
Shimmering! It’s a casual look, yet you find bold statements all the way. From her golden hairdo, turtleneck top, designer belt, curvy pants, shoes as well as a gorgeous Fendi bag.
Nancy Isime
•Terrific in this powerful posture. It’s all black except her white canvas which gives a sharp contrast. A black cap, turtleneck top, pants and bag.
Chika Ike
•Her posture radiates a magnetic effect. Check out how she rocks her light blue long sleeve
top. It combines in a unique way with this long black skirt with a powerful slit. Her black beret, sunglasses, snickers and bag all blend to make a great fashion statement.
Ebube Nwagbo
•Marvellous. You can’t ignore Ebube’s glamorous style. Her black top, trouser, boots, all make her stand out in style. For contrast, she makes use of a light brown jacket that is fantastic. Extras include her sunglasses, well manicured nails and accessories.
Lilo Aderogba
•Curvy. Lilo steals the show with her simple brown dress. The turtleneck design is grand and she
combines this with a black bag and high heeled shoes. Her smile is also infectious.
Looking good and standing out of the crowd is something every woman looks forward to any day. Going out for that special event gives you the opportunity to show off the best items in your wardrobe and create that remarkable image that are memorable.
One exciting way to step out in style is by wearing the long evening gown. They are elegant and bring out that sophisticated glamour that cannot be ignored.
While some of the gowns come with simple straight styles there are others that are classy and sophisticated in every way. This includes designs that are made with fuller frills in the lower part, exciting sleeves as well as those that come with a variety of embellishments that connotes that added glamour.
The colour, design and style that you settle for would be determined by the image you want to project, your mood as well as your personal taste.
Long sleeve sweater is a must-have especially when the weather is cool.
Knowing what to wear all year round will allow you to maximize the clothes in your wardrobe.
It will also help you plan and look your best always. The rainy season is here and this is the best time to bring out your sweaters, turtlenecks, pullovers and sweatshirts.
They come in a variety of designs and colours and a careful selection of the options available will make your day a delight. You can also settle for some casual long sleeve tops and dresses and oversized sweaters for that super look.
Look out for sweaters in a variety of neck designs to vary your collection. The options available include the v-neck, round neck, turtle neck as well as the square neck.
To do this effectively, you need to match your sweaters with the other items needed. This would make you step out, look nice each time you go out in the rain. Some of the items required include caps, shawls, scarves, mufflers and umbrellas.
Glory Agbonita Ehizuenlen’s “Igodomigodo” collection for Agbons-GL stands out as a powerful tribute to Benin’s ancient heritage, while still feeling fresh and modern. This 2021 collection uses rich materials like velvet, tulle, crinoline mesh, luxury lace, feathers, and beads to tell the story of royalty and tradition in a way that feels both respectful and new.
The first thing that strikes you about the collection is its bold use of color and texture. Velvet gowns in deep, regal shades immediately give off a sense of luxury. The way the velvet drapes and hugs the body brings out the confidence and strength of the wearer. Tulle and crinoline mesh are layered skillfully, adding volume and drama without making the dresses look heavy or overdone. These layers move beautifully when the models walk, creating a sense of lightness and grace.
Luxury lace details are used thoughtfully, often as overlays or accents that add a delicate, feminine touch to the stronger velvet base. The lace is sometimes decorated with beads, which catch the light and add a subtle sparkle. Feathers are another standout feature in this collection. They’re not just an afterthought—they’re carefully arranged to create movement and a sense of royalty, reminding viewers of the grandeur of Benin’s history.
One of the collection’s real strengths is how it balances tradition and modernity. The designs clearly draw inspiration from traditional royal attire, but they’re cut and styled in ways that would look at home at any high-profile event today. The use of beads and feathers, for example, pays homage to the elaborate regalia of Benin royalty, but the silhouettes are sleek and contemporary.
Critically, while the collection is visually stunning, some pieces do lean heavily on embellishments, which might not appeal to those who prefer more understated fashion. However, for anyone who loves bold, statement-making outfits, “Igodomigodo” delivers in every way. The craftsmanship is evident in the careful placement of every bead and feather, and the overall effect is one of elegance and power.
In summary, Glory Agbonita Ehizuenlen’s “Igodomigodo” collection is a memorable celebration of Benin’s royal history, brought to life with luxurious fabrics and thoughtful design. It’s a collection that honors the past while embracing the present, and it firmly establishes Agbons-GL as a brand to watch in Nigerian fashion.
WHILE stepping out for a casual outing, a number of things come to mind. A nice short, tank top, curvy pencil skirt or a pair of bandless pants.
Great! But have you also thought about the unique options you can get with a jeans jacket. This is something worth exploring .To cap it all, the look in a trendy jean jacket is exciting.
It gives you the opportunity to make that simple but elegant fashion statement. One important tip is to select the right size and match with accessories that thrill.
Classiness and style are the words that describe the range of jackets available. It is therefore important to keep in tune with changing styles and fads.
Biodun Okeowo
