With focus on creating a synergy between traditional and modern African textiles, BinaEbi Elegant Ensembles has been able to achieve contemporary fashion designs that appeal to people of all races.
According to the two brains behind the fashion brand, Ebi Fritz Edotimi and Binaebi Beckham Edotimi, “aside deriving inspiration from nature, culture and experiences, we also look up to iconic fashion designers like Rick Owens, Stella McCartney, and Turnbull & Asser who have made significant contributions to the growth of the fashion industry while consistently pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation.
“Their unwavering dedication, ethical practices and artistic expression have inspired us to strive for excellence in whatever we do. These mentors and role models have instilled in us a strong work ethic, a love of innovation, and a commitment to sustainability and ethical fashion practices.”
“Their influence has shaped our creative vision and motivated us to grow as fashion designers. We are determined to follow in their footsteps by creating designs that have a positive impact on the fashion industry and the world at large,” they added.
To the duo, fashion is a celebration of uniqueness and self-expression, and this is why they usually permeate their designs with colour, vibrancy and inventiveness.
“We perceive fashion as a method of self-expression through clothing, accessories and personal style. While we believe that style is the manner in which fashion is carried out, we both agree that fashion and style are about self-expression and creative exploration,” Binaebi Edotimi said.
To the duo, Nigerian fashion designers can do a lot to influence the people to look inward and adopt African fabrics.
“We can make traditional African materials more appealing and relevant to today’s fashion-conscious Nigerian by producing modern and imaginative designs that integrate them. To accomplish this, Nigerian fashion designers should focus on creating designs that are both fashionable and steeped in African culture. This includes experimenting with different cuts and styles, as well as partnering with other creatives to push the boundaries of what is possible. We should also endeavour to instill pride in our cultural history and assist Nigerians to ssee the beauty and significance of fabrics and designs passed down through centuries. We can stimulate a revitalised interest in African fabrics and urge Nigerians to look within for inspiration by presenting our rich cultural heritage via fashion.”
