As the sun dipped low over Brooklyn Bridge Park, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and nostalgia on September 8, 2024. The fashion world watched as IB Kamara made his debut as the creative director of Off-White with the brand’s Spring/Summer 2025 collection during New York Fashion Week. Turning Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 2 into a makeshift basketball court, Kamara embraced the collection’s theme, Duty Free, combining elements of sportswear with a cultural imprint that resonates deeply with both American and African experiences.
Kamara’s ascent to this significant role marks a pivotal moment not just for Off-White, but for the fashion industry at large. “I feel like it’s my time now; it’s time to bring my vision forward,” he remarked backstage, a bright smile reflecting his excitement.
The new collection is inspired by Kamara’s Sierra Leonean heritage and his experiences in both Africa and America. “This collection was triggered by a trip to Ghana, the place where Virgil [Abloh] came from and the roots he cherished and constantly referred to in his work. I was born in Sierra Leone and eventually grew up in London, but our experiences were similar,” he explained. “I have vivid memories of what America, and New York in particular, represented in the imagination of Africans: a dreamland of utopias made real, a place of opportunities.”
Kamara’s task has not been easy. Abloh’s passing in 2021 left a profound impact on the brand and the fashion community. The transition required a period of respectful mourning, with Kamara acknowledging, “It was a tough time for everyone. Virgil’s legacy is something we hold dear. But concepts can evolve, and that’s what we’re doing now.” The brand’s website still connects with Abloh’s spirit, showing a tab titled “Virgil is here,” a reminder of the indelible mark he left behind.
While Kamara is deeply aware of the legacy he inherits, he brings his unique experiences and perspectives to Off-White. His work as a stylist and editor at Dazed has equipped him with a keen understanding of fashion’s power, and he aims to redefine the brand’s identity while staying true to its core values. “Fashion is about storytelling, and I want to tell stories that strikes a chord with our community,” he stated with conviction.
The SS25′ collection itself shows Kamara’s innovative approach, featuring daring silhouettes, hand-painted fabrics, and intricate draping techniques that combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. “I wanted to create clothing that speaks to everyone—from the urban professionals in Manhattan to the locals in Accra,” he said. Each piece reflects a story that invites wearers to engage with their identities and cultures.
The debut show was a star-studded affair with notable attendees like Mary J. Blige, Flavor Flav, Coco Jones, Victoria Monét, Ayra Starr, Issa Rae, and June Ambrose, all gathering to witness Kamara’s vision unfold. Among the models who walked the runway were Julez Smith (son of Solange Knowles) and rapper NLE Choppa, adding to the show’s cultural significance.
Kamara also seeks to foster connections with local institutions and communities. Collaborations, such as a special Dazed issue featuring Off-White and partnerships with iconic New York venues, emphasise his mission to celebrate cultural diversity with his new role. “I want to create a dialogue between the brand and the people,” he noted. “Fashion should be accessible and meaningful, not just a commodity.”
Ib Kamara is ready to lead the next chapter of Off-White into an exhilarating future. With a focus on cultural fusion, authenticity, and a deep-rooted connection to its origins—reflecting Africa, his British experience, clubbing in London, and seeing so much culture around him—Off-White under Kamara is set to evolve in unexpected and inspiring ways.
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Written by Angel Joanne Okonkwo
