London Fashion Week came alive with the vibrant energy of Lagos, as rising Nigerian designer Abigail Ajobi showcased her AW24 collection, ANTI-MUSE 2. Inspired by Y2K Nollywood and Nigerian youth culture, the collection boldly celebrates the “Lagos Vibe.”
Ajobi, a graduate of the London College of Fashion, describes her brand as “a luxury streetwear brand with a mission to highlight uncomfortable issues through its print-based designs that contribute towards social awareness.”
Her first collection in the series, aptly named “Anti-muse,” was released as a film inspired by the youth culture in Lagos. Directed and produced by Ajobi herself, the film showcased the SS24 capsule collection, setting the stage for what was to come.
Enter “ANTI-MUSE 2″—a continuation of the narrative yet with a fresh perspective and renewed energy. The essence remains the same, drawing inspiration from Y2K Nollywood style and the rhythms of Lagos nightlife.
The show at London Fashion Week was a delight, Ajobi describes it as “an exploration of how early 2000s Nollywood film and Nigerian youth culture intertwine to shape unique identities. Adire prints ground the collection in tradition while it propels into modernity.”
From the jackets to bralettes, mini skirts to headscarves, every piece had the unique stamp of Adire prints—a traditional Nigerian motif—but in this collection, they were re-imagined as “Ajobi Prints,” which could be seen across the fabrics on all pieces.
Although, it wasn’t just the clothes that captivated the audience; it was the atmosphere—the infectious energy that encircled the room as Nigerian songs filled the air, Afrobeats and Amapiano rhythms blasted through the speakers as models strutted around the room with confidence, their movements in-sync with the music, displaying a sense of joy and liberation.
One standout piece from the show was a grey and pink hooded-midi dress featuring cut-outs, long sleeves, and Ajobi’s signature prints plastered across. Amidst that, there were, bucket hats decorated with bold patterns, corset tops that accentuated curves, and mini-skirts with daring slits, ensuring that every piece told a story—a story of the energetic spirit of Lagos.
From the moment, the models came on the scene, each in their own bold outfits, it was clear that this was more than just a fashion show; it was a celebration of life, culture, and Ajobi’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of fashion.
In Ajobi’s words, “‘Anti-Muse’ is a celebration of the unconventional, the unapologetic, and the beautifully contradictory.”
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Written by Angel Joanne Okonkwo
