Lanre Da Silva Ajayi celebrated 20 years in fashion with a spectacular showcase, honouring artistry, craftsmanship, and the future of African design.
Some anniversaries are commemorated with applause, but a rare few become cultural milestones. On the evening of 16 November in Lagos, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi (LDA) — one of Africa’s most influential fashion visionaries — marked two decades of creative brilliance with a showcase that felt like a cinematic tribute to craftsmanship, womanhood and the grace of artistic endurance.
The celebration was supported by the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Johnnie Walker Blue Label, the Bank of Industry, Standard Chartered Bank, Heineken and Prive Events. It was a moment of collective reflection on the legacy of a designer who has shaped the language of African luxury with determination, innovation and heart.
Two decades of reinvention
Lanre Da Silva Ajayi’s journey began in 2005, when she launched her eponymous label with an aesthetic that blended daring shapes and silhouettes with a distinctly African overtone. Over the years, her design language — defined by ornate lace, meticulous embroidery, dramatic textures and refined femininity — placed her as a pioneer of Nigerian couture.
Her pieces have graced runways from London to Johannesburg, appeared in international exhibitions and magazines, and found their way into the wardrobes of influential women who value craftsmanship and cultural depth. Yet beyond the glamour lies a quieter, enduring commitment to nurturing emerging talent and telling African stories with sincerity and artistic conviction.
This anniversary was not merely about longevity; it was a celebration of evolution, resilience and influence.
A night of elegance, emotion, and heartfelt tribute
The evening opened with a stirring performance by Waje, whose soulful vocals set a tone of elegance and nostalgia. Hours later, Tiwa Savage closed the event with a magnetic, high-energy performance that sent the room into raptures as the final looks swept down the runway.
The most electric moment came when Lanre Da Silva Ajayi stepped forward for her bow. The audience rose in a spontaneous standing ovation — an outpouring of affection and respect for a woman whose contributions have shaped, inspired and uplifted an entire industry.
The SS26 “Anniversary” collection: A return to her roots
At the heart of the night was the unveiling of the SS26 anniversary collection, titled “The Anniversary Collection”. A deeply personal tribute to the motifs, silhouettes and techniques that have defined the LDA aesthetic over the years. The collection exuded regal sophistication, weaving together rich textures, intricate handwork and silhouettes that celebrated femininity with confidence and grace.
A stunning cast of runway icons — among them Dabota Lawson, Idia Aisen, Nancy Isime, Sabrina, Aduke Shitta Bey and Beauty Tukura — brought the collection to life. Their presence added a sense of theatre and star power, turning each ensemble into a moment.
Produced by Elizabeth Elohor of Beth Model Management, the event drew a constellation of influential creatives, tastemakers and cultural leaders. Don Jazzy, Toke Makinwa, Mercy Eke, Omowunmi Dada, Chioma Good Hair, Iyabo Ojo and Osas Ighodaro were among the distinguished guests who gathered to celebrate the designer’s extraordinary journey.
The atmosphere was one of unity, pride and shared admiration — proof that Lanre Da Silva Ajayi’s influence extends far beyond fashion.
Read also: The LadyMaker: A decade of rebellious elegance and uncompromising vision
More than runway: A documentary that held the room still
Another highlight of the night was the screening of LDA’s anniversary documentary, a beautifully told narrative of beginnings, battles, triumphs and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
The room fell silent as the designer’s voice threaded through memories of craft, discipline and dreams. It was an intimate reminder that behind every shimmering gown and every couture moment lies a story of persistence, vision and an unshakeable belief in one’s purpose.
Honouring the next generation
In keeping with her long-standing dedication to mentorship, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi used the platform of her anniversary to spotlight emerging designers who represent the next chapter of African fashion. She honoured Bisoye Olorunmbe of Hue_rtw, Ugochukwu Onukwubiri of 14zeroseven and Garcelle Williams of Morayoasoasiko — each offering refreshing, modern interpretations of African design, sustainability and craftsmanship. Their collections were met with admiration and warm applause, reaffirming the importance of investing in new voices.
A legacy still in motion
Reflecting on the milestone, LDA shared: “Fashion has always been my way of documenting our stories — who we are, where we come from and the possibilities ahead. These 20 years have been a journey of discipline, evolution and grace. Tonight is not just about the past, but about the future we’re creating.”
She expressed heartfelt appreciation for her supporters, partners and the media, whose commitment over the years has amplified her voice and legacy.
As the lights dimmed and guests lingered in the afterglow, one truth became clear: the LDA 20th Anniversary Showcase was a celebration of creativity, resilience and the power of vision. It captured the spirit of a designer who has spent two decades redefining African luxury and continues to inspire a generation of dreamers and makers.
Twenty years on, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi is still defining the future of fashion with elegance, courage and purpose.
