Popular Nigerian womenswear’s brand Fruché has unveiled its SS19 collection tagged “Free Spirits.” The collection is literally a work of art in the sense that it was inspired by the Royal Court of Benin’s first official photographer, Chief Alonge.
The Benin kingdom is one of the most documented kingdoms in Nigeria and Africa; the creative director took inspiration from the kingdom’s rich and beautiful heritage as she designed the Free Spirits collection.
According to Frank Aguno, creative director of Fruche:
“His subjects wore a mix of western and traditional Bini attire and they made these ensembles their own. Those in the upper echelon of society who could afford to do so would come dressed in their best outfits to have their portraits taken.”
The embellishment, fabric, textures and colour palette used in the collection came from all of the things that inspired Frank about the Bini culture and tradition. Each and every single detail tells a story. For instance, the Ivie – which is how the coral beads are referred to symbolizes royalty while the powder blue tone represents water.
Frank Aguno also further explained his fascination with his inspiration;
“A significant statement at a time when photos of Africans were often filtered through the gaze of a non-African photographer or anthropologist.”
Alonge’s lens captured an essence that precedes him; every subject in the pictures was represented in ways they chose by themselves. The images showed the infusion of western and traditional Bini styles in a way the stylish and free-spirited proved they owned their look. Today, Frank Aguno channels this significant statement into his latest collection.
Here’s a look at the collection…
Free Spirits | Lookbook
Creative Team
Brand: @Fruche.official
Creative Direction and Styling: Frank Aghuno | @Frankbydesign_
Photography: Kosol Onwudinjor | @Kosolonwudinjor
Models: Rafiat Bisodun | @RafiatBisodun, Tosin Olajire | @Darkskin_tosin
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