By Chinazam Ikechi-Uko.

In seven years, GTCO Fashion Weekend has cemented itself as one of the two most important annual fashion weeks in Nigeria. It has become a pivotal event that not only showcases the rich tapestry of Nigerian fashion but also highlights global influences that resonate within the industry. The event has evolved into a vibrant platform that displays creativity, innovation, and collaboration among designers, models, and fashion enthusiasts alike. Its runway show is often a mixed bag of renowned designers from both home and abroad, making it a unique extravaganza of cultural expressions and trends.

The 2024 edition was no exception, as the lineup was as powerful as our prayers for the national grid. The excitement leading up to this fashion weekend was palpable, with attendees eagerly anticipating the diverse array of talent on display. The event featured distinguished names that have made a mark in the fashion world, alongside emerging designers who brought fresh perspectives and otherworldly interpretations of contemporary style. 

From the sexy and Rihanna-loved designer LaQuan Smith, known for his risqué yet classic silhouettes, to the storytelling London Fashion Week SS25 breakout star Tolu Coker, who captivates audiences with his intricate designs that reflect societal narratives. The GTCO Fashion Weekend was nothing short of extraordinary. Each designer brought their unique flair and narrative to the runway, ensuring that there was something for everyone in the extensive mix of brands presented.

Attendees were treated to stunning pieces that blended tradition with modernity, showcasing vibrant colours, intricate patterns, and meticulously crafted garments. The event amplified voices that deserve to be heard, giving rise to applause that echoed throughout the venue. Notably, sustainable fashion was a significant theme this year, with several designers prioritizing eco-friendly materials and practices in their collections. 

The GTCO Fashion Weekend has become a vital part of the cultural landscape in Nigeria, inspiring the next generation of designers and fashion lovers. As the curtains fell on this year’s event, it was clear that the influence of the GTCO Fashion Weekend will continue to resonate well beyond the runway, marking it as one of the essential celebrations of creativity and fashion in Africa. Here are the brands that made the audience rise in applause, each contributing their artistry to this spectacular weekend and enriching the narrative of Nigerian and global fashion.

LaQuan Smith:

High-waisted one-pieces, leather and fur jackets, skin-tight mesh dresses, and skirts shorter than our will to live. Definitely, a brand we’d love to see Madame Ayra Starr wearing. The critically acclaimed American designer, LaQuan Smith brought his arsenal of sultry garments to Lagos, including the metallic breastplate dress made famous by American actress, Sydney Sweeney.

Tolu Coker:

Straight off the SS25 London Fashion Week, Coker decided to bring her highly celebrated collection home to Lagos. Tolu Coker returned with her collection OLAPEJU, which honours her mother and the influential women in her life. 

The name “Olapeju,” which translates from Yoruba as Where Wealth Gathers, reflects her journey. The collection showcased upcycled leather, tailored blazers, and retro suits in matching prints. This approach created a warm and festive atmosphere, drawing inspiration from her mother’s wardrobe from the 1970s. Coker made the show fun and interactive as the models danced on stage, encouraging the audience to join in the celebration. The vibrant colours and bold shapes captured the essence of nostalgia and joy, making each piece not just a garment but a storytelling experience.  

Eric Raisina:

The Madagascar-born and Cambodia-based designer, Eric Raisina, took the GTCO audience to his hometown in Siem Reap, Cambodia. For his SS25 named, Back To My Roots, Raisina wanted to translate the beauty of Siem Reap on fabric. The cocoon spun for the woven fabrics is native to Cambodia and the scarves seen on the runway are styled as an ode to monks in Cambodia.

Moye:

Moye opted for a fashion presentation as opposed to a runway show. The showcase had renditions of the traditional ASO ÒKÈ fabric. Moye expressed that the Ayanniyi collection draws inspiration from the talking drum, translating its essence into garments that narrate through fabric and texture. On Instagram, the brand said, “Each garment, like the drum, carries its own message, inviting the wearer to embody a story with every movement. The collection honours the rich legacy of the drum, bridging culture and fashion to celebrate the power of storytelling through style.”

For Moye, the talking drum serves not just as a musical instrument but also as a crucial link to heritage and community. Its rhythms resonate deeply within cultural expressions, embodying the collective consciousness of the people. This deep-rooted connection highlights the drum’s role in fostering unity and understanding, reinforcing societal values while keeping traditions alive. 

Onalaja:

Onalaja brought the shine, the shimmer, and the glitter with a stunning collection that resonated with the spirit of celebration. Each piece was carefully crafted, featuring bright and a-line silhouettes that were reminiscent of the iconic 70s disco era, capturing the essence of fun and freedom that characterized that time. The collection was aptly titled The Queen’s Alchemy reflecting a theme that drew inspiration from queen bees—symbols of strength, femininity, and community.

Gert Johan Coetzee:

The South African designer, Gert Johan Coetzee, known for his unique craftsmanship, came to play in the city of Lagos. He brought a slew of his notable dresses and introduced newer styles. He played with metals, beads, piping techniques, and corsetry. His talents are recognised globally. He has dressed celebrities such as Chloe Bailey and Cardi B.

Selly Raby Kane:

Fresh off its Paris debut, the Senegalese brand, Selly Raby Kane, brought its artsy shirts and jackets to the GTCO runway. The collection saw graphic designs mixed with traditional fabrics. The eclectic collection highlighted the brand’s creativity and colour coordination.

Sukeina:

The CFDA-recognised label, Sukeina, has become a fan favourite at the GTCO Fashion Weekend. Its 2023 show was the face of the GTCO 24 posters. This year, it stripped back the metallic face decor and invited the audience into a world of black business flirty yet casual.