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By Rita Okoye
Adebukola, the visionary force propelling Sannah Fashion Hub, embarked on her creative path from an unconventional starting point: studies in Forestry at the Federal College of Forestry. Yet, akin to the intrinsic beauty of nature, fashion resonates deeply within her as a subtle yet potent mode of expression.
For Adebukola, each garment transcends mere fabric; it embodies a narrative awaiting articulation. Her creations serve as canvases, inviting self-expression, celebrating identity, and showcasing artistry. In this exclusive interview, the exceptionally talented fashion designer delves into her career trajectory and the inspiration underpinning her latest offering – The Essence Collection.
How did your fashion design journey begin?
My fashion roots took hold in 2018, beginning with a government-run foundational course and later a masterclass in male fashion design. As I evolved, so did my interests eventually branching into elegant casual female wear with vintage flair. Every phase of my journey has sharpened my eye and deepened my passion for crafting timeless, personal fashion.
Congratulations on your new collection! What was the inspiration behind it?
Thank you! The Essence Collection is a deeply personal work an homage to authenticity. It draws from the raw, unfiltered emotions of everyday people and moments. It celebrates the beauty of individuality, of confidence wrapped in fabric, and of simplicity that speaks volumes. I wanted this collection to be a mirror reflecting who we are, beneath the layers.
Can you walk us through the creative process from concept to runway for this collection?
The journey began with reflection on what “essence” truly means. I gathered textures, sketches, and inspiration from both Nigerian roots and everyday elegance.
Each piece was designed with intent: from sourcing fabrics that breathe comfort to stitching silhouettes that whisper strength. The final runway reveal was more than a fashion show it was a declaration of selfhood.
How does this collection reflect your evolution as a designer?
It marks a shift from simply designing clothes to curating experiences. With The Essence Collection, I challenged myself to strip back excess and focus on feeling how the fabric drapes the body, how colour speaks emotion, and how comfort meets sophistication. It reflects a matured understanding of what it means to design not just for fashion, but for life.
What fabrics and techniques did you focus on, and why?
We leaned into breathable cotton blends, textured linens, and subtle silk fabrics that move with the body and evoke a sense of calm elegance. Our techniques fused modern tailoring with traditional hand-finishing, ensuring that every piece felt intentional, tactile, and rich.
Were there any cultural or traditional Nigerian elements infused into this collection?
Absolutely. From the use of earthy tones inspired by Northern landscapes to subtle embroidery patterns reminiscent of Yoruba and Hausa artistry, the collection nods to Nigerian heritage without being overt. It’s about honouring our roots in a way that’s quietly powerful and globally appealing.
Who is the ideal person you designed this collection for?
The dream wearer of The Essence Collection is confident and intentional and embraces the harmony between tradition and trend. It’s for women who know that true style doesn’t scream it whispers, elegantly.
What challenges did you face while putting this collection together?
As with many Nigerian entrepreneurs, we wrestled with unstable electricity and skyrocketing fabric costs. But creativity thrives in constraint. These challenges forced us to be more deliberate choosing fabrics and production methods that were both beautiful and sustainable.
In what ways do you think this collection stands out from your previous work?
While past collections like Shorts and Sweet Classics and Chic and Chill celebrated versatility and comfort, The Essence Collection goes deeper; it’s emotional and stylistically refined. It’s less about trends and more about timeless presence.
How do you balance global fashion trends with maintaining a uniquely Nigerian identity?
I see Nigerian identity not as something to preserve, but as something to project. By merging global silhouettes with local textures, stories, and inspirations, I create pieces that feel international in quality but unmistakably Nigerian in soul.
What message or emotion are you hoping to evoke in people who wear these pieces?
Empowerment, clarity, and self-acceptance. I want wearers to feel grounded yet elevated to know they’re stepping into their most authentic selves, wrapped in a design that was made with love, thought, and cultural pride.
How affordable are your designs?
Affordability is key to my brand philosophy. Fashion should be accessible, not exclusive. My goal is to make elegance and high-quality design available to anyone who seeks to look good and feel even better.
How has the response been so far from your audience, both locally and internationally?
Incredible! The support has poured in from both home and abroad. Our appearances at shows like Bristol Fashion Week and Fashion Fusion UK have sparked exciting conversations. Locally, we’re building a loyal clientele who resonate with our story and craftsmanship.
What role do you think fashion plays in shaping the narrative of modern Nigerian identity?
Fashion is the fabric of our identity literally. As Nigerian designers, we have a powerful role in redefining how our culture is seen. Through fashion, we showcase our diversity, resilience, and innovation to the world, challenging stereotypes and building a new narrative: modern, bold, and rooted.
Are there plans to showcase this collection at any international fashion weeks or exhibitions?
Yes! We’re aiming high London Fashion Week and Lagos Fashion Week are both on our radar. These platforms offer not just visibility, but a chance to engage in global conversations through style.
What’s next for your brand after this collection any upcoming projects or collaborations?
The journey continues. We’re exploring expansion into the UK, launching a fashion school in Nigeria, and even working toward celebrity collaborations. Sannah Fashion Hub is more than a brand it’s becoming a movement.
