From Scotland to Nigera in Style
Many people are aware of the links between Aberdeen and Nigeria involving the numerous city based oil companies, but did you know that those links also extend to the fashion industry?
We were delighted to accept an offer to become involved in African Fashion Week recently when we were approached by oil engineer and fashion entrepreneur Francis Udom. Francis, 33, is fast becoming renowned throughout the industry for his cutting edge styles which combine Scottish and Nigerian cultures to create modern and innovative designs. Along with his partner Bunmi Olaye, he established his label Bunmi Koko only 12 months ago but has already attracted the attention of designers and celebrities including ex Spice Girl Mel B, who wore a Bunmi Koko design to the Brit Awards earlier this year.
When Francis approached us at kiltmakers.co.uk he was keen to incorporate our own kilt design, Scotland Forever, into his Autumn/Winter collection to be launched at African Fashion Week earlier this month. As a result this ever popular tartan received terrific reviews when it shared the catwalk with some of the top fashion house designs from around the world.
“Many South African people wanted to buy the kilt!“ said Francis “and the feedback we’ve received to our first collection has been exceptional”, he added. “This particular collection, which is titled ‘Matriarchy’ has particularly strong ties with Scotland and especially Aberdeen as it is dedicated to my Great, Great Grand Mother Mary Slessor, the famous Aberdeen born missionary.”
The collection fuses designs from two great nations and we at kiltmakers.co.uk are delighted that our contribution played such an important role.