Beyond building a brand that celebrates heritage, Banke Kuku is building community and pushing the boundaries of contemporary luxury
The first time I met Banke Kuku was at her Lagos Fashion Week 2023 show. Amid the expected behind-the-scenes chaos and bright runway lights, I noticed her immediately. Her calm demeanour and the genuine creativity she embodied radiated effortlessly. It made perfect sense. Banke Kuku is, after all, a designer who is synonymous with print perfection and vibrant storytelling. It demands attention from Lagos to London and everywhere in between.
At the heart of the Banke Kuku brand is a designer who understands the language of fabric succinctly. She speaks through colour, print, and fluidity, pulling from Yoruba traditions and the lushness of nature to create pieces that feel both luxurious and familiar. From flowing silk dresses to tailored co-ords, each piece is created with intention and that signature #KukuTribe energy.
With a summer drop campaign reimagining her OCEANS line, and her new collection, Banke Kuku is redefining what it means to build a global African luxury brand. Her pieces, effortlessly blending vividness with grace make a deeply personal, yet powerful statement—fashion that feels like a homecoming.
Banke Kuku is not only dressing women, she’s also building community. Her initiative, “Conversations with Banke,” empowers women behind the clothes as much as those in front of the camera. She is amplifying the voices of African creatives and carving out space for authenticity in the fashion industry. Her mission is clear: to create fashion that celebrates heritage while pushing the boundaries of contemporary luxury.
In this feature, we dive into the world of Banke Kuku—the woman, the brand, and the movement. From her early inspirations to the cultural roots that constantly shape her vision, and the standout pieces in her summer drop, Banke tells it all.
Let’s take a masterclass on creating with power, purpose, and print. Step into Banke’s world with me.
Banke Kuku, the woman
Your eponymous brand is synonymous with bold prints, vibrant storytelling with nature. What is your earliest memory about fashion, and how did that inspire the way you carved out your unique space in the industry?
My earliest memory of fashion dates back to my childhood, when I would make dresses for my dolls and even create gloves for myself. I vividly remember how I would draw on the fabric, letting my imagination run wild with colours and patterns. This early creative expression, though innocent at the time, reflected a subconscious fascination with textiles and the art of design.
As I grew older, this passion for fashion blossomed into a deeper understanding of the cultural narratives and stories that patterns can tell. It inspired me to explore the intersection of bold prints and vibrant storytelling, leading to the establishment of my brand, Banke Kuku. Each piece I create celebrates culture and nature, infused with the playful spirit of my childhood experiences. This journey has not only allowed me to carve out a unique space in the industry but also to connect with others who appreciate the beauty and depth of fashion as a form of expression.
Looking back at your journey—from your early days to now—what would you say has been the most defining moment of your career?
Pinpointing the most defining moment of my career is indeed challenging because there have been numerous impactful experiences. However, I would have to highlight my time at university as a particularly pivotal period.
For me, studying at Central Saint Martins and Chelsea College of Art and Design was transformative. I discovered my passion for textiles during these years. As I engaged with various techniques and explored different mediums, I found a sense of identity and purpose within my craft.
What stands out most is how I began to hone in on my love for Nigerian-inspired design. I delved into the rich traditions of woven and printed textiles. This exploration allowed me to not only refine my skills but also to appreciate the cultural narratives that inform my work. The knowledge and techniques I gained during this time have been instrumental in shaping me into the designer I am today, enabling me to articulate my story through my creations. These foundational experiences have continuously fuelled my journey, guiding my vision for the Banke Kuku brand.
Fashion is believed to be a reflection of identity. How has your personal identity shaped your design philosophy?
For me, fashion is indeed a profound reflection of identity, and my personal identity plays a central role in shaping my design philosophy. As someone who is naturally easygoing, I prioritise comfort in my creations. I believe that clothing should not only look good but also feel good, allowing individuals to express themselves without constraints.
At the same time, I have an inherent desire to stand out, but I prefer to do so effortlessly. This duality influences my design approach. I aim to create pieces that are not only striking and vibrant but also exude a sense of ease. I draw inspiration from the idea that fashion should empower individuals to feel confident and unique while remaining comfortable in their skin.
By embracing my personal identity, I infuse my designs with a blend of boldness and simplicity, reflecting the diverse stories and cultural heritage that resonate within me. My goal is to create a wardrobe that allows wearers to express their authentic selves while enjoying the comfort and ease that I value so deeply.
The brand
Cultural influence and new collection
Your work often weaves culture into design. In what ways does Yoruba or broader Nigerian culture continue to inform your aesthetic and nature stories?
In my next collaboration, I am particularly excited to showcase a rich tapestry of elements drawn from Nigerian culture. Storytelling through textiles has always been a signature of my designs, and this collection will be no different.
I can’t wait to share these designs, as they encapsulate the essence of who we are and resonate with a global audience that values the significance of cultural storytelling through fashion. It’s an exciting opportunity to blend tradition with modernity while honouring the richness of our heritage.
Will you give Marie Claire Nigeria a hint of when to expect the new collection?
I’m thrilled to share that we have a fabulous summer drop launching in just a few weeks! This collection is designed to bring a fresh and vibrant energy to the season, perfect for all your summer occasions. Additionally, mark your calendars for our grand collection, set to be released in October. We’re gearing up for something truly special that we can’t wait to unveil!
The Summer Drop campaign
A little bird told us you have a Summer Drop Campaign coming up. It is a reimagining of your OCEANS collection. What led to revisiting and refreshing this particular collection?
Revisiting and refreshing the OCEANS collection for our upcoming Summer Drop campaign was a natural decision for me. Sometimes, when you create a collection around a specific theme, you realise that some endless possibilities and nuances remain unexplored.
When I launched the OCEANS collection last October, I was excited. I was also aware that there were many elements and inspirations I had yet to fully express. The beauty and vastness of the ocean offer a rich tapestry of colours, textures, and narratives, and I felt compelled to dive deeper into this theme. There are some beautiful prints we weren’t able to give the spotlight they deserve.
The decision to do a summer drop stems from my desire to encapsulate the essence of summer. Its lightness, vibrancy, and the joy summer brings while reimagining the original concepts of the OCEANS collection. This campaign allows me to expand on the initial ideas, introducing new designs that reflect my continued exploration of the ocean’s beauty and its impact on our lives. It’s an opportunity to celebrate both the past and the present, ultimately enriching the story I want to share through the Banke Kuku brand.
What are some standout pieces from the Summer Drop that you’re particularly excited about, and how do they fit into the modern woman’s wardrobe?
One of the aspects I’m most excited about in the Summer Drop is the opportunity to merge the OCEANS collection with my previous collection, Eden. This fusion promises to be spectacular, as it combines the vibrant, fluid motifs of the ocean with the lush, rich elements of nature represented in Eden.
Some standout pieces from this Summer Drop include vibrant maxi dresses that flow elegantly, embodying the essence of both collections. I’m particularly thrilled about introducing unique print combinations that highlight the beauty of both themes. The return of some of our classic styles, reimagined with fresh patterns and colours, will create a stunning synergy that I believe modern women will love.
These pieces fit seamlessly into the modern woman’s wardrobe by offering versatility and effortless style. They are designed to be worn for various occasions, from casual beach outings to more formal summer gatherings. The fusion of the OCEANS and Eden collections captures the spirit of femininity, strength, and adventure, allowing women to express their individuality while embracing the beauty of nature and the sea in their everyday lives. I can’t wait to share these designs and see how they resonate with our #kukutribe!
The movement
Community & empowerment
For Banke Kuku, fashion isn’t all about just the glam, it’s a catalyst for empowerment and change. Through “Conversations with Banke”, she is creating space for African women to be seen, heard and supported in the industry.
The fashion industry often feels exclusive, especially for African creatives. How do you use your platform to amplify women’s voices, create opportunities, and challenge the industry’s barriers to inclusivity?
As the host of “Conversations with Banke,” I am dedicated to amplifying women’s voices and creating opportunities for African creatives in the fashion industry. I prioritise inviting diverse guests who share their unique stories, showcasing both their challenges and successes to inspire the community.
I believe in the power of storytelling to foster empathy and understanding. Through my podcast, I encourage collaboration among guests and listeners, promoting partnerships that can break down barriers of exclusivity. I also address the specific challenges faced by African women and other underrepresented groups, sparking important conversations for change.
Engaging with my community through Q&A sessions and social media discussions helps foster a supportive network. Additionally, I provide resources for workshops and mentorship opportunities to empower women in the industry, while advocating for policy changes that promote inclusivity and diversity. In essence, “Conversations with Banke” serves as a platform for empowerment and dialogue, aimed at creating a more inclusive fashion industry for all.
The evolution of Banke Kuku
Your designs have garnered a global following. There is hardly a Nigerian luxury fashion list without a Banke Kuku piece. How is the brand evolving to meet the demands of this international audience?
As Banke Kuku continues to grow and garner a global following, we remain committed to evolving in ways that resonate with our international audience. One of the core principles that guides our brand is the importance of producing in small batches. This approach not only allows us to maintain high quality and craftsmanship but also ensures that each piece feels exclusive.
We are dedicated to creating incredible designs that capture the essence of our heritage while appealing to a diverse range of tastes. By focusing on unique prints and innovative silhouettes, we aim to satisfy the desires of our global audience. People who appreciate luxury fashion that tells a story.
Additionally, we are exploring new markets and expanding our outreach to connect with customers worldwide. This involves understanding different cultural aesthetics and preferences while staying true to our identity. As we strive to cater to this international demand, our commitment to authenticity and sustainability remains at the forefront. We are ensuring that each design embodies the spirit of Banke Kuku while appealing to a broader audience.
We’re excited about the journey ahead and look forward to sharing more beautiful creations with fashion enthusiasts around the world
