Globally acknowledged Nigerian fashion brand, Maki Oh recently released the lookbook for its ready-to-wear SS18 collection which was recently showcased at New York Fashion Week titled ‘Change your style, another style’. The brand is known for its continuous appreciation and exploration of ‘self’ and ‘identity’ and her Spring/Summer collection was nothing short of this.
This season, Amaka Osakwe the creator of the Nigerian-based womenswear label draws inspiration from her childhood in 1995 Lagos, a time when the privilege of youth washed out the sound of harder times.
According to the brand as shared on Instagram,
“The collection reflects colour, pragmatism and the effervescence of a Lagosian childhood….. games like Ayo, ‘change your style’ and those improvised in the classroom: notes passed under desks and cheeky spelt words on calculator screens by inverting them. The uniform of birthday parties, festive occasions and Sunday dress which were referred to as ‘Aunty Give Me Cake Dresses’ as marked in the collection with bulky, layered tulle in blush pinks and nudes. Whilst the unbridled sense of freedom in playing dress up in parents’ closets are present in oversized silhouettes and light wool blend suiting”.
The collection was strongly anchored on the use of various Nigerian textiles, including raffia, layers and silk fringing – some signature elements of the brand. Maki Oh is known for its fun and creative use of “Adire” a Yoruba hand-dyed fabric. However, the use of Adire has become a compelling signature, one which she wisely incorporates into her designs this season.
The mood of her work distinguishes her from the bold wax prints that most fashion lovers associate with Africa. With an authentic yet unique voice that is globally recognised, Maki Oh continues to bring a fresh perspective to Nigerian designs ensuring the preservation and sustainability of our cultural heritage and ethical practices. Also, the right portrayal of Nigerian stories.
Check out pieces from the collection below…
CHANGE YOUR STYLE, ANOTHER STYLE | Lookbook
Creative Team
Brand: Maki Oh Lagos | @maki.oh
Photography: Amandla Baraka | @amandlabaraka
Shoes: Internationally | @iamintentionallyblank
Muses: Adrienne Raquel | @adrienneraquel, Afriikaana | @mekdesmersha, Madine Konate | @madinekonate
Beauty Team: Bobbi Brown cosmetics, Tia Hebron | @tiahebron, Alterna Haircare | @alternahaircare led by @nathanrozenkranz
For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_
