FASHION REVIEW : Simbena 2023 collection of contemporary fashion and tradition

Fashion has shaped the culture of numerous African societies for years now. It rests deeply in the thoughts, values, actions and individual perceptions of people.

As a force in the global scene, fashion has been evolving over time, resulting in the emergence of several advancements and the creation of new global and local fashion events. The current direction of fashion is now towards the commercialisation and promotion of origins.

Designers contribute to the narrative of fashion by employing it as a means to advoate for inclusive representation and sustenance of cultural practices.

The combination of African traditional and Western contemporary fashion is a fusion of the inspiration from African patterns and fabrics into designs that are cut in Western styles or vice versa.

This blend of harmonious techniques exhibits the importance of cultural identity.

In Nigeria, it is an obvious fact that designers are taking this technique into effect and expanding their brand vision. Fashion has gone beyond adorning human bodies and has evolved into a practice of social flair and relevance.

The technique for incorporating this technique is to use African print fabrics that can be easily used to make different styles ranging from casual to formal clothes.

African fabrics, especially Ankara are versatile and enhance the blend of old and trendy styles. To further promote this fabric, it has been used to create designs and styles such as kimonos, pants, blouses, jackets, and dresses.

What makes the blend of modernity and fashion interesting is that authenticity is maintained and the rich African culture is ably represented in each design. One of the designers who have captivated the interests of many audiences with a true representation of originality is Simeon Benjamin Akpan.

Who is Simeon Akpan?

Simeon Akpan is an avid designer who has taken a deep interest in African fashion. His love for African prints began in his childhood.

The inspiration to choose fashion design as a career path stemmed from watching his mother make innovative garments that were customer-made, in their home.

This scene has sparked a genuine passion for African prints in him, and ever since, he has honed his skills in the craft.

Simeon founded his fashion label, SimBena in 2018 to implement traditional African aesthetics to foster inclusivity and enable wearers to spread happiness.

The works in his Afrocentric brand have garnered a wide range of attention from media outlets across Africa. This has gradually set the stage for his collections to lead fashion platforms globally.

SimBena isn’t just a name but a gifted representation of a brand that showcases African excellence. Having drawn inspiration from his mother’s legacy, his works continue to be synonymous with vivid prints and unique designs.

There is an artistic detail to every print he designs. This has made his talent extend beyond the shores of Nigeria and into the global fashion industry.

The fashion community in the world is taking note of Simeon Akpan’s exceptional talent. And as a devoted advocate of celebrating the African tradition, he is gracing the global scene with his outstanding designs and fashion influence.

His 2023 collection is a representation of the Nigerian cultural heritage and the transient nature of contemporary fashion styles.

The collection has been making waves in the global fashion industry. From other brands to agencies and fashion consumers, his collection has sparked interest and generated conversations on how culturally expressive his designs are.

Whether you are drawn to Western style or African patterns, explore this collection of intricate craftsmanship.

Style Rating:

Choice of fabric: 9/10

Craftsmanship: 9/10

Innovation: 7/10

Colour combination: 6/10

Overall wearability: 8/10

This piece from SimBena’s 2023 collection is a combination of bright, compatible colours, a smooth fabric texture and a patterned blend of floral prints that showcases the rich Nigerian culture. This outfit gives off an appearance of elegance that befits a formal or semi-formal occasion.

Choice of Fabric

The combination of Ankara fabric and net yoke material is an interesting fusion. It highlights the contrast between the textures of the two materials. Ankara fabrics exhibit a timeless appeal and can be worn in any season, all year round.

However, this combination does not seem to be in total harmony as the colour of the net yoke is too bright compared to the colour mixtures of the Ankara fabric.

Craftsmanship

SimBena evidently paid attention to details, especially in how the pleated bottom of the dress is neatly sewn in to align with the entire bodice of the dress.

The classic shape of the wearer is clearly outlined with a creative technique to the hemline and overall design. Every aspect of the design showcases sophistication and the finished pieces reflect how much work was put into creating this beautiful outfit.

Innovation

The innovative approach behind this dress reveals the perfect combination of African and Western Elements. The use of flair style to end the sewing of this dress pushes it from being just a piece of clothing to a classic work of art.

Colour Combination

The floral print of the fabric is bold. SimBena displayed top-notch creativity by ensuring that each part of the cloth is a strong point for what the pattern looks like. There is design creativity on one end, but being able to beautifully combine colours is the effective part of bringing out the appeal of the dress.

Overall Wearability

This piece may be a little too serious for casual gatherings and events. But it is the best choice of clothing for women who love dressing simply for formal or semi-formal occasions. Paired with simple accessories, this dress pushes the boundaries of fashion.

Onto the next in the SimBena 2023 collection…

Style Rating:

Choice of fabric: 9/10

Craftsmanship: 9/10

Innovation: 6/10

Colour combination: 9/10

Overall wearability: 8/10

This dress from SimBena is a creative reflection of simplicity and beauty in one design. The outfit makes a perfect choice for any type of occasion, thereby proving its versatility. The colour perfectly captures the graceful appeal of any woman wearing it.

Choice of Fabric

Ankara is a perfect choice of fabric for a style that never goes out of season. It creates a luxurious look and makes the dress feel comfortable without an elaborate look to the design.

Craftsmanship

The outfit is a balance between the two elements of fashion and tradition. Taking a look at the neckline and shoulder cut, it is right to commend that the designer paid attention to details and created a fine stitch of quality fabric.

Innovation

As beautiful as this jumpsuit is, it is not revealing. This makes it a classy and sleek look.

There is a twist to the design of the arm, which has pushed the creativity of the designer to make a part of the outfit dramatically stand out.

This piece is beautiful but would have been more elegant if the length of the sleeve was short and only the puffy part retained it.

Colour Combination

The aesthetic appeal of this orange and brown patterned combination is graceful and enhances the overall look of the design. The 9/10 rating for the colour combination is based on how these colours make it a perfect outfit to wear during the summer.

Overall Wearability

The design of this piece basks in its versatility. Regardless of the occasion; formal, informal, casual events, family gatherings and other types of daytime events, this dress is the right pick for comfort and elegance.

The entire SimBena 2023 collection is an exhibition of an excellent fusion of cultural origins and Western influence. Lovers of cultural identification will have their attention fixed on this brand, to see that the promotion of cultural heritage is progressive and all designs are seamlessly blended into the two beautiful elements of fashion.