Elegance meets tradition: A critical evaluation of ‘Elegantly Damask’ by Oladunni Surakat

The founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dunnis Atelier (formerly Dunnis Bridal), Oladunni Surakat, has consistently been at the forefront of reimagining traditional African attire through her intricate bridal designs. Her latest collection, Elegantly Damask, marks a significant departure from bridal wear, instead focusing on the timeless Bubu style. This collection, with its emphasis on Damask fabric, is a bold celebration of elegance and tradition.

While Oladunni’s expertise in bridal fashion remains evident through her detailed craftsmanship and luxurious fabric choices, Elegantly Damask seeks to redefine Damask beyond ceremonial wear, showcasing its versatility in creating classy and elevated looks.

Damask fabric, known for its rich texture and intricate patterns, has long been a staple in West African fashion. Historically, it has been associated with special occasions and elaborate attires, but Oladunni’s use of this fabric in the Elegantly Damask collection offers a fresh perspective. She reinterprets Damask in a modern, understated manner while still respecting its deep cultural significance.

The collection places emphasis on the interplay between the fabric’s luxurious feel and its adaptability to create flowing, voluminous Bubu styles. Each piece is a statement of elegance, with the fabric’s natural sheen lending itself to a refined, high-end aesthetic. The use of Damask in this collection reflects Oladunni’s skill in selecting textiles that enhance the wearer’s presence, yet it also raises the question of innovation: how far can Damask be pushed beyond its traditional boundaries?

The Elegantly Damask collection shines in its execution. Each Bubu piece is thoughtfully crafted with precision and attention to detail. The collection features a variety of styles, from simple, free-flowing gowns to more structured, layered pieces. The fluidity of the designs ensures that they cater to a wide range of body types, offering both comfort and style.

One of the standout aspects of the collection is Oladunni’s mastery of the Bubu silhouette. The voluminous drape, combined with well-placed pleats and folds, enhances the natural flow of the fabric, giving the wearer a regal air. This structural precision is balanced by the fabric’s softness, creating garments that are as graceful in motion as they are striking in appearance.

Her use of embellishments is subtle yet impactful. Rather than overpowering the already ornate Damask, she opts for minimal detailing, allowing the fabric to be the centerpiece. This restrained approach is refreshing, as it lets the luxurious texture of the Damask speak for itself.

While the collection is undeniably elegant, there is room for growth, particularly in terms of innovation. The use of Damask in Bubu styles is not new, and while Oladunni’s craftsmanship is impeccable, the collection largely stays within the confines of traditional designs. There is little in the way of experimentation with silhouettes or daring new interpretations of the Bubu.

As a designer with a history of creating standout bridal pieces, it would be exciting to see Oladunni take more risks with this collection. For example, incorporating modern design elements—such as asymmetrical cuts, mixed fabric pairings, or even contemporary embellishments—could have added a fresh twist to the classic Bubu. By pushing the boundaries of what Damask can do, Oladunni could elevate Elegantly Damask from a beautiful collection to a groundbreaking one.

Another point worth mentioning is the color palette. While Damask’s rich texture lends itself beautifully to deep, regal hues, the collection leans heavily on traditional color choices such as gold, silver, and navy. Incorporating unexpected color combinations or gradient effects could have introduced a new layer of excitement to the collection, making it more dynamic and appealing to a broader audience.

One of the key strengths of the Elegantly Damask collection is its versatility. The Bubu styles can easily transition from formal events to more casual occasions, depending on how they are accessorized. This makes the collection highly marketable to women seeking elegant, yet comfortable, options for a variety of settings.

That said, there is a niche appeal to the collection that could be expanded. The target audience for these styles seems to be mature women with a preference for traditional African attire. However, with slight tweaks in design, Elegantly Damask could also attract younger, fashion-forward clients. Introducing more modern cuts or pairing Damask with edgier elements could help broaden its market appeal, making the collection a go-to for women of all ages who want to blend tradition with contemporary fashion.

In Elegantly Damask, Oladunni Surakat demonstrates her ability to breathe new life into traditional fabrics while maintaining an air of sophistication. The collection is a love letter to Damask, celebrating its timeless beauty through the graceful Bubu silhouette. Oladunni’s skill in tailoring and her deep understanding of fabric shine throughout, making this collection a staple for any woman looking to invest in luxurious African fashion.

However, to truly push the boundaries of African fashion, Oladunni might consider taking more creative risks in future collections. By stepping outside of her comfort zone and exploring new design elements, she has the potential to not only uphold the elegance of African fashion but also to redefine it on the global stage.