Africa represents itself through every aspect of its way of life. A vibrant continent, we express our freedom most visibly through our fashion with the way our attire drapes over our bodies and the bright colours pop on our skin. Nigerian fashion has certainly made its way to the forefront of the African fashion world, emerging as one of the blueprints for self-expression and a fashion-forward approach which is rooted in the dynamism of the country’s heterogeneity. A country of deep and vast heritage, some regions have an unmistakable identity that permeates through the collective consciousness of the people through their portrayal in film, live plays and other conduits of popular culture.

Our fashion exists within this all-encompassing context. Nigerian fashion brands continue to look inward within our history, tapping into indigenous culture to create modern pieces that exude a cultural essence. Dayo Alagbe, who spearheads fashion house Twelve19 Styles, incorporates pieces of his Yoruba culture into the BAALE collection that brings his vision of blending indigenous pieces with modern allure. His visionary designs and leadership is steering Twelve19 Styles to the forefront of Nigerian fashion, broadening the perspectives of what indigenous clothes can feel like.

The BAALE Collection displays Dayo Alagbe’s commitment to creating a balance between tradition and contemporary fashion, as it is rooted in the rich spectrum of Yoruba culture. “Baale” — which is the name of the revered leader of communities in Yorubaland — is a pointer to the idea that Dayo Alagbe had while drawing up this collection, which is to recreate a feeling of royalty through the clothes. Each piece exudes a royal allure, displaying the true splendour of Yoruba traditions that permeates through other aspects of their culture as well. Cultural influence within the fashion world cannot be understated, as we are naturally inclined to leave pieces of ourselves within our art which creates a sense of belonging for those who gravitate towards it.

In line with the theme of royalty, the BAALE collection certainly stands out in many ways. The collection features different sets of two-piece clothing that encapsulates the regality associated with fashion in Yoruba culture. There is the indigenous agbada design which is widely popular and associated with elegance. Other two-piece designs are present in the collection, with many of them being accompanied with their own fila (traditional cap) which gives the clothes a nice touch.

Fabric selection is a big part of a project like this. Dayo Alagbe’s hands-on approach cuts across all stages of production but he remains finicky about the quality of the fabrics selected as they have a direct influence on how the clothes are perceived. He uses velvet, linen and brocade across the collection’s different pieces, while using cool colours like navy blue, black and beige to create the feeling of regality. The attention to detail in relation to the fabric and colour selection highlights Dayo Alagbe’s meticulous approach to his designs.

The BAALE Collection is a testament to the fashion-forward mindset present within the African fashion world. Dayo Alagbe continues to push the boundaries of fashion perspectives through his innovative marriage of tradition and modernity.