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Vlisco&co launches in Lagos
Vlisco&co, a new initiative that took place in Nigeria and Accra, aims to bring truly unique events, creating new narratives and diving into the creative future of Africa. The new initiative explores what the Vlisco brand means to the modern generation, but also what they could mean for Vlisco. The Creative Team at Vlisco together with the local creative scene presented a collaborative process, showcasing new ideas from Holland and Africa.
After a successful first edition of Vlisco&co in Accra, it was now Lagos’ turn to wow the world with their creations. The event was hosted by Vlisco and A White Space Creative Agency at Alara, with DJ Aye! as a great addition to keep the energy going. Lagos’ first edition was attended by the likes of Linda Ejiofor, Naeto and Nicole Chikwe, Dolapo Oni Sijuwade, Bolanle Olukanni, Kayla Oniwo, Denola Grey, Simi Esiri, Fisayo Longe, Akin Faminu, Sharon Ojong and Kessiana Edewor.
The event kicked off with an interactive session between Karo Akpokiere in conversation with writer Ayodele Arigbabu, that took place in a recreated studio titled ‘6 Stories of Disintergration’. Karo Akpokiere, a renowned Nigerian illustrator who exhibited in the Venice Biennale, envisioned new ways of reinventing classic Vlisco designs in his sketches and illustrations. Other than that, he was equally involved in the storytelling around these classics.
The talented new generation of locally based Nigerian fashion designers presented their fashion creations during the event. Commissioned collections by designers Tokyo James and Abiola Olusola were showcased. Tokyo James’ menswear collection, which included two Vlisco innovation fabrics that were used for the first time, made a big impression on the audience. Not only did he create true gentlemen’s wear, he also transformed Vlisco fabrics into other fabric qualities, by mixing the fabrics with other materials and accurately stitching them together. Tokyo James worked with photographer Terna Iwar on both a fashion film and shoot of his classic, yet very modern collection, which was also showcased during the night.
Designer Abiola Olusola on her turn took us on an eclectic journey of dresses. With her daring shapes, she brought both new and classic Vlisco designs to life. The whole picture of her collection worked out perfectly well because of the interesting way she mixed the prints.
Furthermore, filmmaker, stylist and fashion-visualist, Daniel Obasi presented his inspiring afro-futurism film titled ‘An Alien in Town’, which showcased Abiola’s and Tokyo’s work.
