New York Fashion Week 2024 just wrapped up, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The city is known for its eclectic fashion scene, and this season, Nigerian designers stormed the city and left a mark that won’t be forgotten any time soon.
From Andrea Iyamah’s elegant brunch to KÍLÉNTÁR’s historic debut, here’s a look at how these fashion powerhouses brought their A-game to the Big Apple.
Andrea Iyamah: Celebrating women who ‘Do It All’
Kicked things off with an intimate brunch with a guest list that included Dr Robin Barrett, Aysha Harun, and Lola Ogunnaike. It was star-studded brunch on the scenic rooftop of The Ned NoMad, and it was everything we didn’t know we needed. Her Fall/Winter 2024 collection, “The Grace to Do It All,” celebrated multifaceted women who juggle life’s many roles, be it motherhood, entrepreneurship, or just dominating their lane with poise.
Partnering with Laura Mercier, Tanqueray No. Ten, and Crown Royal, the event was a blend of fashion, beauty, and bold cocktails. Guests were treated to a ‘Lip Service’ beauty experience. Discovering their perfect lip look while sipping on bespoke drinks like the Triangle Collins and Crown Royal Peach Fizz. Top models, influencers, art curators, and even a few best selling authors—all dressed in pieces from Iyamah’s FW24 collection, looking like they just stepped off the pages of a magazine.
Iyamah’s pieces were more than just clothes; they were a nod to the grace, resilience, and complexity of women who ‘do it all.’ Every ruffle, every silhouette was carefully curated to make a statement. About the strength and beauty of women in every walk of life.
KÍLÉNTÁR: A bold debut on the global stage
The Nigerian brand made history with its debut show at New York Fashion Week. Presenting the “Mama Ibeta” collection that captivated the audience from the first look. Known for its dedication to African craftsmanship and heritage, the brand brought a unique blend of traditional techniques and contemporary designs to the runway.
Founder and Creative Director Michelle Adepoju shared her vision of creating collections that honour tradition while pushing forward with modern aesthetics. A vision that left a lasting impression at NYFW.
The collection was vibrant, textured, and full of life, featuring tie-dye and handwoven fabrics created by artisans from across Africa. With this debut, KÍLÉNTÁR firmly positioned itself as a brand to watch, demonstrating that African fashion can be both timeless and cutting-edge.
A season to remember
This season, Nigerian designers didn’t just make a statement—they created a movement. With Andrea Iyamah and KÍLÉNTÁR leading the charge, NYFW September 2024 showcased the diversity, creativity, and depth of Nigerian fashion. These designers reminded the world that African fashion is not just a trend; it’s a powerful voice in the global style conversation, and it’s here to stay.
