By Christy Anyanwu
Dynamism is a new collection designed by Owulo James, a garment constructor, pattern maker, and founder of Semaj Clothing.
The collection, released on June 14, 2021, balances bold sensuality and formal sophistication. James’ reputation for technical excellence is well-earned, with Dynamism exemplifying his garment construction and pattern-making skills.
The velvet women’s ensembles showcase precision in stitching, particularly around the delicate drawstring detail over the breastbone, which requires structural stability. The crop tops’ drawstring detail is bold, drawing attention to the chest with a provocative yet calculated design. The form-fitting trousers in the women’s ensembles are tailored with precision and accentuate the curves of the wearer – a testament to expert pattern drafting.
While luxurious and visually impactful, Velvet is quite difficult to work with. The women’s pieces showcase this challenge, as the fabric occasionally appears stiff where it should flow, particularly in the trousers. The velvet pieces could benefit from more meticulous edge finishing, as some seams appear bulky under the fabric’s pile.
The men’s suits demonstrate exceptional tailoring, with sharp lapels, smooth shoulder seams, and cleanly pressed pleats. The structured yet fluid fit of the trousers highlights a meticulous understanding of balance in form. The suit jackets are tailored to allow a full range of motion, and the trousers strike a perfect balance between slim and classic fits. Pocket placement and closures are thoughtfully designed, ensuring practicality without sacrificing elegance.
The formalwear, crafted from high-grade suiting fabric, exudes quality but leaves room for elevated finishing. The suit designs are classic and dependable, but their familiar nature limits the collection’s overall impact. The duality between the daring velvet ensembles and the refined formalwear is visually arresting. The collection’s title aptly reflects its attempt to explore opposing fashion styles, which adds depth to Semaj Clothing’s portfolio.
Dynamism targets two distinct audiences, which could either broaden its market appeal or dilute its impact. The women’s ensembles will resonate with a younger, daring audience that values statement fashion. While appealing to professionals and traditionalists, men’s formalwear risks being overshadowed in a saturated market of classic suits.
Semaj Clothing’s Dynamism is an ambitious collection that showcases James’ technical prowess and willingness to take risks. The men’s formalwear is a masterclass in tailoring, exuding timeless elegance and practicality. On the other hand, the women’s ensembles push boundaries but at the expense of wearability and cohesion.