By Rita Okoye
Yetundeasif Apparels “Prints and Press” collection is a groundbreaking fusion of tradition, innovation, and sustainability, crafted under the visionary guidance of Asif Deboah Olayinka.
The collection unveiled on July 6, 2024, at the African Diaspora Festival Sustainability Fashion Show exemplifies the innovative vision of Olayinka creating garments that are visually stunning and environmentally conscious, making a powerful statement about the potential for sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
The “Prints and Press” collection stands out for its ingenious use of Ankara fabrics and newspapers, fusing these materials to create elegant, sustainable fashion products. Olayinka is a designer known for her innovative approach and deep appreciation for African culture. Her skills in blending different materials and creating sustainable fashion are evident in the Prints and Press collection.
The ADF Sustainability Fashion runway show was a spectacle of creativity and cultural pride. The audience was treated to a visual feast that left them in awe as models graced the runway adorned in garments that showcased the unique blend of Ankara and newspaper fabrics. The collection featured a variety of clothing styles, including elegant gowns, tailored jackets, flowing skirts, shirts, high-waist trousers, shorts, and crop tops. Each piece was designed to move gracefully, reflecting Olayinka’s emphasis on fluidity and freedom of movement.
Among the standout pieces was a model wearing a multi-tiered ruffled flowing Ankara gown with newspaper print accents. The dress is composed of several layers of ruffles made from a combination of Ankara and newspaper fabrics. The use of newspapers adds a unique texture and narrative element to the design.
The crop top in the collection was made from Ankara fabric, paired with a high-waist trouser made from a combination of recycled newspapers and Ankara fabric. This ensemble highlighted the collection’s theme of sustainability and innovation. Another eye-catching piece was a knee-length gown with the lower part of the gown adorned with large sculptural ruffles, which added volume and a playful artistic touch. At the same time, the dress has a flattering, slightly A-line silhouette that emphasizes the model’s figure while allowing for ease of movement.
Olayinka’s ability to transform everyday materials like newspapers into high-fashion garments demonstrates her creativity and technical prowess. By combining these with traditional Ankara fabrics, she creates pieces that are not only beautiful but also meaningful and sustainable. Olayinka’s work in this collection reflects her dedication to preserving cultural heritage while promoting modern, eco-friendly fashion practices. This approach meets the desires of a discerning and conscientious audience who values high-quality fashion products and sustainable practices.
The unveiling of the “Prints and Press” collection at the African Diaspora Festival Sustainability Fashion Show was a celebration of innovation, sustainability, and cultural pride. Asif Deborah Olayinka and Yetundeasif Apparels have once again proven that fashion can be both beautiful and responsible. Through Olayinka’s creative use of Ankara and newspaper fabrics, the collection not only captivates the eye but also tells a powerful story of tradition and modernity, making it a significant statement in the world of sustainable fashion.