Made to fit, made to slay—the rise of bespoke fashion has been trending, with top designers showcasing their custom-made outfits at events at the Met Gala. Long gone are the days when outfits were created for just one purpose without consideration for style, made merely to cover up.
Today, modern women are making bold statements with their fashion choices, using clothing as a form of identification. This concept formed the foundation of Oluwadamilola Oladapo’s 2024 collection; a pioneer of Sleek N Purple Fashion House. She creates outfits that are not only relevant to the African continent but also help portray the beauty of cultural heritage through fashion. Her designs are fit for a global audience, bringing Africa to the centre stage with every piece she creates.
Atoke Dress
When different cultural pieces are infused together, creativity abounds. The Atoke dress is the true definition of merging cultures to create a masterpiece, gracefully displaying the kente print—a staple in Ghana’s fashion industry—alongside Ankara fabric.
This combination creates a dramatic design with bold, whimsical features that make it both eye-catching and attractive. The play with colours in this outfit is what makes it stand out, perfect for the African woman who wants to make a bold statement while embracing her cultural roots. In every sense, the dress speaks volumes about adorning the African woman with a beautiful masterpiece – a testament to the true theme of the 2024 collection.
The layered flare at the hem contrasts beautifully with the upper part of the outfit, creating a balanced style and design. Paired with an African-made bag, this look ties in with the versatility of African prints, as the bright yellow and black hues of the bag reflects the uniqueness of African culture.
Zila Dress
Elegance and confidence are embodied in the use of blue in fashion, symbolising the personality and values of the modern woman. Damilola’s creative prowess is showcased by incorporating a touch of finesse and edgy designs into her collection, especially in the Zila dress. The use of premium textiles that are lightweight in texture yet glamorous in appearance, makes this outfit a vibrant combination of blue, red, and yellow.
The beads attached to the bow symbolise opulence, highlighting the careful craftsmanship in an avant-garde style. This demonstrates that African designs are unique and universal in their choice of fabric and concept. The beautiful two-layer flare portrays a minimal yet elegant touch, ready to be worn by a classy, confident woman.
Jola Dress
Glitz and glamour, regal and edgy—these words perfectly describe the Jola dress. It effortlessly exudes luxury and class with every hem, embellishment, and detail of its design. The flickering stones and the brown-coloured lace beautifully complement the gold beads that adorn the outfit. The edgy design elements and flattering appeal make it a statement piece in any setting. The arms are delicately covered in a nude net, adding a subtle yet sophisticated contrast. The intricate lace design, combined with the striking cape at the shoulder, creates a blend of elegance and boldness, making this ensemble a perfect choice for a standout look.
Damilola’s 2024 collection is known for its edgy designs, allowing women to feel confident and empowered as they strut their stuff at events, parties, and gatherings. There’s no fear of inferiority here—just pride in wearing apparel that honours tradition while making a bold, modern statement.