A review on African Identity and contemporary fashion
The greatest fashion designers were inspired by words that carry weight and power. Styles may change over several years and various seasons but these quotes can never be outmoded.
A quote that resonates with almost every fashion scene is the one by Vivienne Westwood, which says, “Fashion is very important. It is life-enhancing and, like everything that gives pleasure, it is worth doing well.”
Africans are a high-powered force that reckons strongly with this statement. African fashion is rich and deeply rooted in their culture. Sometimes, it may take on a Western look but it never fails to reveal the undertone of Afrocentrism in the style. Various fashion shows, scenes and exhibitions have showcased elegance that equally portrayed luxury, boldness and the beauty of African fashion, one of which is the Vanity Hub.
The Vanity Hub is a grandeur African fashion exhibition which takes place during the London Fashion Week. The 2023 edition of this event was held on the last day of the London Fashion Week. It is an exhibition of vibrant colours and timeless yet breathtaking designs. This historic evolution of fashion is usually led by Lady Ayobami Animashaun. It is a lineup of models that are wearing the pieces of notable fashion designers. These designers were carefully handpicked as their works are a blend of African artistry and Western sophistication.
Many designers aspire to gain visibility through this platform and Ifeoma Umenyiora has succeeded in using her level of expertise and dedication to this industry to promote her vision of modern and timeless pieces.
Eberechukwu Chioma George and Ifeoma Umenyiora are unconventional Nigerian designers who has managed to push the boundaries of African designs into an embodiment of creativity and heritage in the global space. Their brand, Pillz ‘n Poizn Atelier has been actively involved in the Vanity Hub exhibitions. Showcasing her exquisite craftsmanship through creative designs, she has been featured in several magazines such as Bloom Magazine, Elle Slovenia, Style Cruze Magazine, Bazaar Vietnam, Lovely Magazine, L’Officiel Ukraine, and Malvie the Artist.
Pillz ‘n Poizn is known to have steadily gained ground in an industry that demands sophistication and excellence. It has become a symbol of haute couture which comes with the beauty of vivid innovation at its peak. It is no wonder that the brand is widely recognised and has since been in the promotion of radical changes to fashion. This is how it has been able to widely connect with diverse audiences and potential consumers of what the brand stands for.
As queens exist, their fashion sense is one of the most non-negotiable aspects of their personality. Pillz and Poizn Atelier definitely know how to serve what matters the most to these African queens–fashion! The brand’s creative imagination is evident in this piece. It was designed to give that ‘queenly’ look. This is the type of dress that saves you a spot among dignitaries.
The green colour is the first thing that would immediately appeal to the eyes. The right shade that softly complements any skin tone the wearer may be. It practically proves that not-too-bright colours can indeed be beautiful too. The long puffy sleeves are a statement that adds a stylish elegance to the overall length of the dress. Drawing the perfect balance between the side cut and the lower side slit. The flower patterns embroidered on the piece are evidence of the intricacy of the detailing of this dress. It highlights the appearance of this dress, giving it a more opulent look.
Nothing beats a dress with a silky look and this dress radiates the confidence of the wearer. It gives a trendy look that only a designer with keen eyes for perfect fitting and outstanding features will be able to create. This is an interesting piece and may be perfect for all body types, it is definitely not an everyday wear and should only be reserved for special occasions. This does not limit the versatility of the type of event, but it does show a high-quality piece from this collection.
Perfection! This is the right word to describe this piece. From the tiniest detail to the overall appearance, the designer created an awesome look that is perfect for beach hangouts, garden parties, and casual indoor parties. The neckpiece is the brightest detail of this look, adding a touch of bright hue to the white colour of the dress.
The piece showcases a polished appearance and develops a sense of serenity in you once you’re clothed by it. Subtly revealing the thighs, it creates a diverse narrative on how you as the wearer may want to feel comfortable ‘in your own skin.’ The key feature of this dress is the little white pieces sewn into it. It creates the illusion of an aesthetic that would suit a curvy body better, especially for those who desire simplicity and the need to look elegant without doing too much. Although the seams are not visible, they create a well-finished and quality piece.
The length of the dress gives the bodice a balanced look, ensuring that it creates a perfect match to heeled shoes. This brand has successfully added stylishness to the feminine flair of the dress. Overall, this dress can go with bold accessories and trendy compliments like the scarf around the neck or beautiful hair accessories.
The total perfection of this dress lies in the colour of the material. White implies purity and the intention of the designer to make this piece in this colour is an expression of their imaginative thoughts. Leaving no room for bias, all other details were perfectly measured to deliver a look that immediately caught the eye.
This pink dress in the Pillz ‘n Poizn collection was created for women who desire to look after their young and best selves. You can easily tell that Eberechukwu George and Ifeoma Umenyiora loves flowers and doesn’t fail to incorporate them into their designs. The flowery patterns contribute to the flattering appearance, which will make the wearer beautifully different.
Thin straps, pink colour–this is definitely the dress for a ‘princess’ day out, a birthday dinner or an exciting casual event, let’s say a date. With a combination of stiletto heels and minimal accessories, this dress will make heads turn. I would recommend that as casual as this dress is, with a bright colour for fashion lovers that intend to be the centre of attraction. This piece will suit gold accessories better, making sure that skin tones are elevated and not in contrast to the bright colour of the dress.
However, the true beauty of this dress would have been much better revealed if the corset was not included in the piece. As beautiful as this dress looks, the mid part is throwing it off the harmony that was intended. This is a feature that can deprive the wearer of ease and comfortability. Still, Pillz ‘n Poizn Atelier created another masterpiece with this look.
The chic look of this style is what drives the combination of African culture and Western sophistication to it. The African print material of the tube top and jacket creates a contemporary style that is not in contrast to what the Pillz ‘n Poizn designers are expected to deliver. Attributed to elegance, the print material showcases the ability of the designers to include the African heritage in a blend of stylish innovation.
This work of art is perfect for casual occasions and reflects the need for comfort. Given the cultural significance of the style, it is a welcome choice for small African gatherings. Adding a touch of modernity to the style, the skirt is designed for a woman who appreciates the ability to maintain flexibility. The elastic waistband allows the skirt to hold firmly to the waist, leaving no room for fashion failures.
The black colour of the skirt is a perfect touch to the hue of the upper clothing material. Wondering why the skirt is draped with frilly cotton material? It’s what adds a fuller look to the style, creating a balance between the two pieces. This two-piece wear is a subtle reminder that glamour can be attached to cultural heritage.
Although certain aspects can be worked upon. For instance, the slight exposure of the inner part of the skirt. It would have been a much better look if the frilly material went completely around the skirt. Also, a simple necklace would have added a better expression of the wearer’s personality, showcasing a much smarter appearance.
Pillz ‘n Poizn is truly an extraordinary brand and the exhibition of their expertise on all levels proves their intentionality in promoting intercontinental fashion. This collection is the core of fashion excellence and every piece showcases diverse identities and personalities.
