Created as a celebration of heritage, community, and sustainable fashion, ChimmyandCo, has unveiled ‘Ezeanaekwu’, an African inspired capsule collection.
Ezeanaekwu Collection blends cultural storytelling skill with modern design. At its core are carefully selected fabrics that honour African craftsmanship and sustainability.
The Akwete woven fabric, a masterpiece of Igbo artistry, is crafted by skilled women who have passed down their weaving techniques from generation to generation.
It is more than fabric – it is a thread that ties the past to the present, connecting the wearer to the legacy of their roots.
Complementing this are Adire and Tie-Dye lace, created through the use of Yoruba hand-dyeing techniques. This blend of traditions speaks to the spirit of connection, adaptability and pride that the Ezeanaekwu collection seeks to represent.
Each piece in the collection, whether a tailored suit, an overcoat, or a versatile tunic, is a nod to the balance between heritage and modernity.
Designed with everyday functionality in mind, these garments are infused with the stories of home, of shared values, and of a commitment to preserving what matters most. The Ezeanaekwu collection also represents a dedication to ethical fashion, collaborating with local artisans to sustain traditional craftsmanship and empower communities.
By prioritising slow, sustainable practices, ChimmyandCo reimagines fashion as a tool for connection – one that ties individuals to their culture while contributing to a more thoughtful and inclusive future.
The collection, according to Creative Director, ChimmyandCo, Chimmuanya Ijezie, is inspired by his father’s traditional chieftaincy title, Ezeanaekwu, meaning “the king everyone talks about.”
For Ijezie, the title represents more than just a chieftaincy – it evokes the essence of home, the warmth of belonging, and the strength of community.
“Growing up in Lagos, my fondest memories revolved around my father’s dignified presence at tribal gatherings.
Clad in richly woven Akwete fabric paired with elegant lace trousers, he carried the weight of tradition and pride in every step. His attire was more than clothing; it was a reflection of identity, a connection to his roots, and a symbol of respect for the culture that shaped him. For me, these moments embodied the spirit of tribe and the beauty of community – a shared sense of purpose, values, and tradition,” Ijezie said.
He continued: “The fabrics used to design this collection symbolises my father’s connection to Southwestern Nigeria, a region that shaped much of his life and success. The inclusion of these fabrics pays homage to the Yoruba city that welcomed him, blending its influence with his Igbo heritage. My father’s ability to embrace his Igbo roots while paying tribute to his Yoruba settlement is a story of unity and cultural respect. His wardrobe often reflected this duality – wearing Akwete fabric to honour his Igbo identity, while incorporating Yoruba textiles like adire and tie-dyed lace to acknowledge and celebrate the community that became his second home.”