Black in Fashion Council FW24 Discovery Showrooms Highlights Designers from Atlanta to West Africa
After purchasing a sewing machine with his first paycheck while working as a car engineer at GM in Detroit, Onifade embarked on a six-month self-teaching journey. This led to the creation of his first capsule collection of streetwear pieces. For him, GVDS isn’t just a brand; it’s an homage to African craftsmanship and evidence of the rich talent emanating from Lagos, Nigeria.His vision is to elevate the ‘Made in Lagos’ label to the same pedestal as its European counterparts.
GVDS embodies a harmonious fusion of minimal engineering lines, intricate hardware, and authentic West African patterns. Onifade’s meticulous attention to detail, inspired by his engineering background, manifests in designs that resonate with a global audience.
From adorning Nigerian-American singer and songwriter Davido to crafting luxurious calfskin tote bags and intricately designed jewelry featuring Adinkra symbols, GVDS showcases African heritage, innovation, and unapologetic originality.
OMÔL
Nathalie Chebou Moth, the creative genius behind OMÔL, seamlessly combines heritage with innovation. She crafts a fashion narrative that celebrates the essence of womanhood. Rooted in her Cameroonian origins yet thriving in Paris, Moth’s designs push traditional boundaries. They offer a vibrant display of culture, style, and functionality.
When asked about the essential inspiration behind the brand, Moth explains that it’s rooted in the prototype of the African woman, who often serves as the blueprint or inspiration for many aspects of today’s culture.
At the core of Omôl’s ethos lies the brand’s signature handwoven raffia bags. They double as musical instruments, evidence of Moth’s ingenuity and commitment to redefining fashion’s purpose. Inspired by Cameroon’s cultural richness, these colorful creations serve as both practical accessories and artistic statements, celebrating tradition with a chic modern twist. OMÔL is a manifesto for fabulous, irreverent women seeking eclectic wardrobes without compromising affordability.
Nia Thomas
Nia Thomas, the epitome of a visionary, seamlessly incorporates her worldly experiences into her designs. Hailing from New York City, her journey from the Fashion Institute of Technology to Mexico City is a testament to her handcrafted, culturally immersive approach. The designer describes her brand as a symbol of opulent living, attracting those who embrace their power, sensuality, and capacity for love.
