Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial party hub, is known for its booming population, intense traffic jams and vibrant movie and music scene à la Nollywood. But, as well accentuated at the Lagos Fashion and Design Week that wrapped up on Saturday, some style enthusiasts are bent on including fashion on the city’s brag sheet.
Glamour and creativity straddled the runway during the third year of this three-night event. Although renowned Nigerian fashion houses paraded their wears, up-and-comers were also given the spotlight. Twelve of them were nominated for the MTN British Council Young Designer of the Year Award.
And emerging as winner of the 4million naira (20,000 euro) prize was 20-year-old menswear designer Joshua Udiminue. RNW got an exclusive interview with the young man, who was born and bred in Lagos and currently moonlights as a Master’s student in architecture at Convenant University.
How long have you been doing fashion?
I became “commercialized” in 2011 after I was appointed as the official costumier for the male contestants of Nigerian Idol. But prior to that, I was making and selling clothes to my classmates in school – [it was] more like a test-run for the JoshSamuels label.
What inspires your designs?
I like working with lines because it gives harmony in my designs and functions. And as an architecture student, I love how angles on vertical and horizontal lines flow to achieve harmony on each of my collections.
Why is this collection called Casanova?
For me, it doesn’t mean a man that sleeps around with women, but an articulate guy who is sexy and good-looking… [H]is dressing tells one of his ambitions and focus at first glance, which is what every woman wants.
Describe your style in two words.
My design aesthetic is bold and sophisticated.
Should Nigeria – or, for that matter, Africa – prepare to see more of your work?