Gratitude Be Upon You

As a final-year fashion design and technology student, I express my creativity through unique designs, blending bold shapes, precise tailoring, intricate textiles, and refined details. Drawing from my Nigerian, Austrian, and British heritage, I combine vibrant Nigerian colours and prints with British and Austrian minimalist elegance, focusing on luxury couture for women's wear. My latest project pays tribute to my mother, reflecting her nurturing spirit in every garment. I explored colours and patterns, particularly purple, her favourite, and crafted silhouettes inspired by the traditional Nigerian Wrapper style to celebrate her beauty and grace. Inspired by Edo culture and the 16th-century Queen Mother Pendant Mask: Iyoba, a symbol of female Nigerian warriors, I incorporated symbolic motifs using etching and embroidery to honour resilient women like my mother. I employed innovative pattern-cutting methods to create garments that uniquely complement the body, symbolising family interconnectedness with my mother as the core inspiration. Designs featuring curves and a back bustle highlighted her influence, while an exaggerated poncho represented maternal care and protection. This collection's creation was challenging, requiring meticulous attention and countless hours of refinement. Through perseverance, I realised my vision—garments that honour my mother and the enduring mother-child bond. Reflecting on this project fills me with gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate my mother's legacy through my artistry, her love and wisdom continuously inspiring my personal and professional pursuits.