Navigating Boldness and Elegance: A Critical Look at Perceptium Wears’ Owanbe Lace Collection

Perceptium Wears has made a significant mark in the Nigerian fashion industry by fusing tradition with bold, modern design choices. The brand’s latest Owanbe lace collection, under the visionary leadership of Okuneye Qasim Opeyemi, exemplifies this blend. The collection relies heavily on lace as the primary fabric, but it pushes boundaries by pairing these delicate materials with bold linings that dramatically alter the overall visual effect.

However, does this combination of boldness and tradition strike the right balance? In this critical review, STYLEAFRIQUE™•com explores the artistic vision behind the collection, its successes, and the areas where it could benefit from refinement.

Boldness in the Design Process: A Double-Edged Sword

The first thing that catches the eye in the Owanbe lace collection is the fearless use of colour and fabric contrast. Lace, a fabric known for its intricate, often delicate, patterns, is typically paired with more subdued linings to emphasize its elegance. Perceptium Wears, however, goes in the opposite direction, using bold, daring linings in strikingly vibrant colours. This move challenges traditional norms but also introduces a level of complexity that not every fashion enthusiast might appreciate.

For example, the use of a neon yellow silk lining beneath a soft lavender lace gown brings an unexpected vibrancy to the piece. On the one hand, this is an impressive feat of colour experimentation, catering to women who desire to make a bold statement at social gatherings. On the other hand, for a more traditional Owanbe setting, the contrast may feel jarring, even out of place.

This approach to boldness can be considered a double-edged sword. The risk-taking is admirable, but it risks alienating the more conservative clientele who are drawn to Owanbe outfits for their elegance, not their shock value. It’s a difficult line to walk, and while Perceptium’s innovative combinations will appeal to those wanting to stand out, it might not resonate with everyone.

Strength in Craftsmanship

While there are debates over the bold design choices, one thing that cannot be disputed is the quality of craftsmanship in this collection. Perceptium Wears continues to uphold its reputation for creating well-constructed, high-quality pieces. Each lace fabric is meticulously stitched, ensuring the intricate patterns are preserved even as they interact with the contrasting linings.

The hems are carefully tailored, and the use of reinforcement in areas prone to wear — such as the seams and edges — ensures that the garments maintain their structure even with repeated use. Lace, being a delicate material, can easily fray or lose its shape if not handled correctly. However, Opeyemi’s team has clearly taken this into account, ensuring that each piece is not only visually impressive but also durable.
The craftsmanship is further evidenced in the finishing details. In many of the pieces, hand-embroidered accents and beadwork are added to enhance the lace design, adding a level of intricacy that elevates the collection beyond simple Owanbe attire.

Risk Versus Practicality

While the collection’s craftsmanship and innovation in design are clear strengths, one cannot ignore the question of practicality. Owanbe celebrations are known for their grandeur and festive spirit, but they are also long events, often held outdoors in the hot Nigerian climate. In this context, the choice of linings becomes even more critical.

Some of the heavier fabrics used in the linings — such as velvet and thick satin — may not be the most practical for such occasions. Although these materials contribute to the opulent feel of the garments, they may not be comfortable for wearers spending hours outdoors. The heavier fabrics could lead to overheating, detracting from the overall enjoyment of the event. In future collections, it might benefit Perceptium Wears to explore lighter, more breathable lining options without sacrificing the bold visual appeal.

The Role of Lace in Cultural Expression

Lace has long held a special place in Nigerian fashion, particularly in Owanbe celebrations. The fabric is often associated with wealth, status, and elegance, making it a popular choice for women attending weddings, birthdays, and other significant social events. Perceptium Wears’ decision to base an entire collection around this fabric demonstrates a deep understanding of the cultural significance of lace.

However, while lace is inherently elegant, its versatility can be limited by how it’s styled. In this collection, the bold linings sometimes overpower the lace itself, shifting focus away from the intricate designs. This raises the question: Is lace being used as the main feature, or is it simply a backdrop for the designer’s bolder ideas? For women seeking to showcase their traditional roots in Owanbe fashion, the overwhelming presence of bold linings may dilute the very cultural essence they wish to embody.

The Need for Subtlety

In fashion, subtlety is often the key to timelessness. While Perceptium Wears’ latest collection undeniably pushes boundaries, there are moments where the designs would have benefitted from a more subtle approach. For instance, a gown featuring a delicate ivory lace with a metallic gold lining could have been a masterpiece of understated luxury. However, the decision to add additional embellishments in the form of oversized floral appliqués and dramatic ruffled sleeves results in a cluttered aesthetic. Instead of enhancing the overall look, these additional elements detract from the beauty of the lace itself.

Opeyemi’s talent for bold design is evident, but a more restrained hand in future collections could yield even greater results. By allowing the lace to shine without the need for excessive embellishment or overpowering linings, Perceptium Wears could achieve a level of sophistication that appeals to both traditionalists and modern fashion lovers alike.

Conclusion: A Collection That Sparks Conversation

Perceptium Wears’ Owanbe lace collection is an ambitious venture into the world of bold fashion. It seeks to redefine how lace can be worn, moving away from conventional styles and embracing bold colours, fabrics, and embellishments. While this vision has produced some standout pieces, it has also revealed the delicate balance between innovation and tradition.

For the woman who desires to stand out, this collection offers exciting, daring options. However, for those who favour the classic elegance of traditional Owanbe attire, some of the designs may feel too far removed from the cultural essence they cherish. In its next collection, Perceptium Wears has the opportunity to refine its approach, balancing boldness with subtlety, and continuing its journey as a leader in innovative African fashion.