Lagos, Nigeria—Renowned menswear designer Ugo Monye took center stage at the Lagos Fashion Week 2024, held from October 23 to October 27, showcasing his innovative collection titled “Ife Aso Anyi”—a phrase meaning “What We Like”in Igbo. The event, which saw over 50 designers from across Africa, attracted more than 10,000 attendees, including celebrities, influencers, and fashion enthusiasts.
Monye’s collection was a celebration of African heritage infused with contemporary sophistication. Signature agbadas and modernized traditional attires dominated the runway, crafted from luxurious fabrics sourced locally. Each piece reflected Monye’s commitment to blending cultural authenticity with cutting-edge design.
- Celebrity Appearances: Afrobeats superstar Davido made headlines with a surprise runway appearance, donning a regal brown agbada from Monye’s collection. This marked Davido’s second major runway participation, following his debut at New York Fashion Week in 2022.
- Collaboration with TUBO: Sandrah Tubobereni, creative director of the luxury brand TUBO, walked the runway as the “Woman King”, wearing a collaborative piece that fused elements of Nigerian culture. The ensemble symbolized the Lagos Fashion Week’s theme, “COMMUNE”, emphasizing unity within Africa’s fashion industry.
- Attendance and Reach: According to organizers, the event garnered an impressive turnout of over 10,000 attendees and reached an estimated 5 million viewers through live streams and social media platforms.
Ugo Monye has been a pivotal figure in the Nigerian fashion scene for over a decade, known for his bold designs that resonate with Africa’s rich cultural narratives. His participation in Lagos Fashion Week further cemented his status as a global fashion influencer.
“This collection is a reflection of who we are and what we stand for as Africans. It’s about telling our story in a way that inspires pride and modernity,” Monye said during a post-show interview.
The collection featured 25 meticulously designed outfits, each valued between $500 and $2,500, highlighting Monye’s focus on quality and craftsmanship. The use of local fabrics and artisans not only showcased Nigerian creativity but also contributed to the growth of the domestic textile industry, employing over 100 local craftsmen during the production process.
As African designers like Ugo Monye continue to gain global recognition, Lagos Fashion Week has solidified its place as a leading platform for showcasing the continent’s talent. This year’s event, supported by sponsors such as Heineken, MTN, and Zenith Bank, highlighted the growing influence of African fashion on the global stage.
Monye’s collection is now set to feature in upcoming international events, including Paris Fashion Week 2025, promising to further elevate the narrative of African fashion on a global scale.
