“What lies ahead is greater.” A promise of a better tomorrow. A message rooted in hope. This collection explores the story of the Creative Director, Frank Aghuno’s mother and the quiet unwavering faith he holds that the future will be fine. He draws inspiration from her Igbo name, Nkeiruka, which means “What is in front is greater.” She has always believed and supported his talent. Most of his knowledge comes from watching her. A former fashion designer, she was consistently impeccably put together with effortless grace. Aghuno draws inspiration from the biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colours, reinterpreting the symbolism as a gift passed down from parent to child. “Fashion and creativity are some of the greatest gifts passed down by my mother” he says. His childhood memories are filled with moments of playing around the house with his siblings while she sewed, accompanied by the sound of classic igbo gospel songs filling their home. “We watched her create everyday. That was my childhood.” The handwoven Asooke “Ife Mama” coat is one of the standout pieces in the collection. Ife mama, meaning “Mother’s love” in Yoruba language and “Mother’s belonging” in Igbo language reflects care, heritage and devotion. The collection features coats of many colours in rich jewel tones. A refined reinterpretation of Joseph’s coat, mirroring Madam Nkeiruka’s distinct and elevated taste. The collection also incorporates elements of the designer’s maternal heritage as a Delta igbo woman from Aniocha North, Ezi. Nkeiruka was born and raised in Benin City, Edo State. The pieces integrate elements of traditional attire like wrappers, blouses and coral beads seamlessly reimagined within modern silhouettes.
