Nigerian Designer Mai Atafo Prepares to Showcase at the MBFW Africa

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Mai Atafo together with Josh&Nicol will be representing Nigeria in the MBFW fashion showcase. It will be a mind blowing experience for the Nigerian Designer, as he talked about his brand, he gave an idea about the SS15 collection that’ll be showcased.

 
He said “from my SS15 collection I am very excited about the use of soft colours, which tell a relatable fashion story that is very in line with the core essence of my menswear brand. I believe this collection will drive a new trend in menswear. I have always been of the opinion that men can wear colours and look amazing. However, that said I am actually more excited about the womenswear. It takes inspiration from traditional native menswear from the south-south region of Nigeria, with some womenswear influences from south-west and northern parts of Nigeria”.

The menswear lable is well respected in Nigeria and has a huge reputation for designing big stuff. For him, it’s important to represent Africa through design because designers can tell their own stories in an African perspective. It may have European Influences though but that’s our own story and how we tell it. GQ South Africa had a chat with the Nigerian Designer in preparation towards the event and that’s where he revealed it.

When asked about the crimes of fashion men usually commit and how they can be changed he said something about “ill-fitting clothes, especially tight suits under the guise of a “fitted” suit (this kills me). I will continue to preach the gospel of a well-tailored “fitted suit” that accentuates the male form and not one that cuts off blood circulation. With my recently received Savile Row academy certification, the next step will be to allow Africa to experience not just the amazing look, but the comfortable feel of a Mai Atafo inspired bespoke suit.

Mai Atafo doesn’t really believe there should be defining lines in fashion, what’s normally referred to as authentic African aesthetic. However if you feel, comprehend, and can, then design it. Express yourself as long as the consumers will derive value from it.