Slow Fashion Takes Center Stage in Lagos as Nkwo Onwuka Returns to the Runway
After a well-deserved two-year hiatus, Nkwo Onwuka has made her triumphant return to the Lagos fashion schedule. The demanding nature of the fashion industry, with its constant production cycles and relentless pursuit of raw materials, can often take a toll on designers. Onwuka’s comeback serves as a reminder that slow fashion has a significant place in the fast-paced world of fashion.
Her latest collection is a nostalgic journey back to her school days in Nigeria. Drawing inspiration from her upbringing and surroundings, Onwuka aimed to capture the essence of home. Describing the collection as an “African Hogwarts,” the pieces transitioned from studious and refined to whimsical and eccentric. Models graced the runway in red and cream striped ensembles paired with brown berets, evoking a sense of magic and wonder.
Onwuka is a staunch advocate for sustainability in fashion, emphasizing the need for systemic change rather than just conversations. Her signature Dakala print, created using a unique technique to recycle textile waste, was prominently featured in the collection. Every garment was crafted from upcycled materials, including old bedding sourced from a hotel in Abuja. Additionally, women from her social innovation project, Nkwo Transform Initiative, handwove some of the pieces in the collection, highlighting the importance of community and empowerment in sustainable fashion.
