The fashion industry is one that is thriving in Nigeria. The fashion designers have stepped up their game, going against all odds, have establish Nigeria as one of the fashion focal points in the world. It has been creativity at its peak with the rich display of the country’s heritage and culture. If there is one thing that the fashion industry is greatly influenced, it is being rooted in its cultural spirit.
In the spotlight are 5 male fashion designers that have shaped the industry:
1.Duro Olowo
He is a Nigerian-born British fashion designer. He is best known for his innovative combinations of patterns and textiles that draw inspiration from his international background. In 2004, Olowu launched his eponymous women’s wear label, beginning with a Spring/Summer 2005 collection. An empire-waist multi print silk dress from that collection, discovered by American Vogue editor Sally Singer, became an international hit. Selling out in renowned stores including Barney’s New York, Browns and Harrods in London and Ikram in Chicago among others, it was hailed as the dress of the year by both American Vogue and British Vogue, and was known as the “Duro Dress.” In 2005, Olowu won the New Designer of the Year Award at the British Fashion Awards. The only designer to do so prior to their first catwalk show. In 2007, he made his runway debut at London Fashion Week. Olowu enjoyed early support from American First Lady Michelle Obama, who frequently wore his designs. His other clientele includes Uma Thurman and Linda Evangelista.
2.Ohimai Atafo
Atafo, upon returning from the United Kingdom in 2002 worked in various positions in the marketing department at British American Tobacco Nigeria. In 2006 he left to Guinness Nigeria where he sat as Brand Manager as of his resignation in 2010. Before leaving Guinness Nigeria, Atafo started the clothing label “Mai Atafo Inspired”, that gained attention from celebrities such as Omowunmi Akinnifesi, Banky W, IK Osakioduwa and others. He sat briefly as Fashion Editor for Genevieve Magazine. In 2011, Mai Atafo Inspired launched a wedding line called “Weddings by Mai”. Atafo is the Creative Director of Mai Atafo Inspired. He is Strategy Director for the advertising agency Firehouse Group, and is acted as [[emcee]for the Miss Nigeria Pageant in 2010. He heads the Future Awards Central working committee.
3. Frank Osodi
He is a foremost Nigerian designer whose House of Bunor label has traversed countries around the world. His designs are as dramatic as they are edgy on the runway. His uniqueness and creativity shine through his pieces. Frank Osodi, creative director, House of Bunor has made bold statements with his Bunor Creazioni label. With his timeless pieces, Osodi, has clothed fashionable Nigerian women with taste for bespoke pieces.
4. Yomi Makun
He is the founder and CEO of Yomi Casual, a fashion outfit that was launched in 2007. His contemporary designs became favourite of celebrities in Nigeria and Africa. Some celebrities that rock his designs are Alibaba, 9ice, AY, Majid Mitchell, Desmond Elliot, Chidi Mokeme, Timaya, JJ Okocha, Seyi Law, Uti Nwachukwu, Alex Ekubo amongst others.
5. Yemi Kosibah
Yemi Osunkoya draws inspirations from his international travels as well as many other art forms including the ballet, and contemporary painting. Spending countless hours studying the work of legends like Dior, Balenciaga, and Givenchy, who felt the foundation of the garment was as important as its exterior, inspired him to study the time-honored art of couture at the Paris Academy of Fashion where he achieved top-tier grades in both men’s and women’s wear.Because he is trained as a master couturier, each garment designed by Osunkoya for Kosibah undergoes a rigorous measurement process, and incorporates features like corsetry and boned bodices to ensure that each client’s gown reflects their personal blend of beauty and poise.He takes pride in catering to women of all sizes. While some designers see working with different body types as a challenge it excites them to bring the bride’s vision to life.