LAGOS, NIGERIA — Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria (FADAN), penultimate Sunday’, in Lagos, organised a fashion show and exhibition as part of their effort to celebrate the  Christmas Holiday. The modest event which took place at the Green Park on Victoria Island, attracted fashion lovers, designers and the First Lady of Lagos State  who sent a representative. The first of its kind by the association, the show according to its president, Mrs Patsie Aghakwu Ajegwu, is to establish the fact that  FADAN is the custodian of our culture in the country.

Six designers inchiding great labels like Labanella and Regalia made the catwalk while creative milliner, Graces Hats supplied accessory. First to showcase her collection, was the president herself with her label Patsie Creation. Her ensemble featured a collection of kaftans and bonbous cut from chiffon  material, dyed in the local adire design.

The colours were vibrant in yellow, brown, green and mix tip of different primary and-secondary colours. ‘The collection  depicts a lot of fluidity and grace in movement, very feminine and provides great comfort to wearers. It was a collection to help people relax at Xmas, she had  remarked.

Following on her heels were students of Nobel Afrik, a designer who recently took to training. Nobel, a great believer in culture which he feels creates unique looks,  his style was greatly reflected in his students. The collection was done by some of his students to showcase their skill in the needle and thread business after a short  exposure to training.

The young men and women deviated from the traditional Patsie creation and showcased a collection that reflected their ages and the time.  Trendy western casuals done in linen and cotton material. Where ankara was used the design was western. Their collection revealed a lot of dedication on the part of  the sttideiits and got applause from the audience.

Finicky, a new name in the fashion industry, also made her debut at the FADAN show. Long skirt and blouse in the local fabrics featured in her designs.

Next in line was Wumi 0’. Noted for her works with ankara, she lived up to her hilling with her creations. Her stand at the exhibition was a great attraction.

Regalia known for very flamboyant designs featured a collection of floral kaftaiis and houbous designed with embroidery. Others were in polka dot designs in skirts  and blouses. Her collection was complemented by Graces Hats which paraded a wide range of wide brim hats done in same fabrics as the outfit by Regalia. The  result was exciting and full of colour.

Lahanella, like the big masquerade in the proverbial saying, was the last to come out. Her signature exotic African fabric and design was put on the catwalk. On hand  to cheer her creativity was her husband the Baba Adini himself, Chief Wahah Folawivo. Although the show did not attract very many guests, what it lacked in  attendance was greatly made up for in the entertainment that was provided.

Stand up comic, Teju baby face, who compered the show ensured that the guests were  kept laughing all through the show. Notable designers who made the show were Frank Oshodi and NFS fashion designer of the year, Henrietta Aghola.
Source: Jemi Ekunkunbor, Vanguard