By Christy Anyanwu in London
The audience was wowed and left visually satiated by the fantastic, elegant, creative and innovative designs showcased by Nigerian designer, Bukonla Ambali of Bouqui Glam House during the 2024 African Fashion Weekend London, held at the Kensington & Chelsea Conference and Event Centre, London.
The entirety of the event set the stage for a fresh wave of creativity, blending traditional elements with futuristic designs. With scores of designers and exhibitors from Africa, Europe, Asia, and America, the 2024 AFWL gave opportunities to top designers and promoters to showcase their strengths and unique selling points.
Bukonla Ambali demonstrated through her collection that she stands a good chance of ruling the world with her exceptional works, which are a blend of sophistication, glitz, originality, and a celebration of African heritage.
The collection based on the theme, “Timeless Thread AW 24,” featured the unveiling its famous Red Romeo Dress, a stunning embodiment of elegance and sophistication. This masterpiece not only commanded attention but also told a story of artistry and cultural richness. Crafted from fine red luxury fabric and adorned with beads, rhinestones, and other intricate embellishments, the Red Romeo Dress redefined glamour, making a lasting impression on attendees. Its bold design, rich colors, and shiny, translucent fabrics elevated it as a standout piece of the event.
Another show-stopping creation was the Sunset Safari jacket, an African-inspired masterpiece worn on the runway by popular celebrity, King of Afronation, Adesegun Adeosun Jr. aka (King Smade). The vibrant red fabric with bold yellow vertical stripes exuded a powerful energy that complemented Smade’s magnetic stage presence. This jacket perfectly blended tradition with modernity, embodying the essence of African fashion.
The Regal Fur Dress, a highlight of the Timeless Threads collection, was another breathtaking piece. A true showstopper, this dress was not just a garment but a work of art crafted with precision and passion. Its intricate detailing and luxurious materials left attendees in awe, radiating elegance and sophistication.
Beyond the allure of her designs, Bukonla Ambali’s dedication to sustainability sets her brand apart. Each dress is a celebration of African craftsmanship, with local artisans contributing their expertise to intricate beading and embellishment work. By using locally sourced materials and employing traditional techniques, Bouqui Glam House not only supports the livelihood of artisans but also preserves cultural heritage.
By collaborating with skilled artisans, Bouqui Glam House fosters a community-driven approach to fashion, where every piece tells a story of creativity and shared purpose. Other noble brands gracing the stage include Mary Martin London, David Wej, Scqueeze, and Lioness by TF.many.