FASHION REVIEW:CLASS, STYLE AND TITIAN LUXE

Tosin Clegg

In the end, fashion is a unifier. It is a powerful way people express who they are, and it brings us all together in surprising ways. No matter where you live or what your background is, fashion speaks a language that everyone can understand. From traditional clothing passed down through generations to the latest trends in modern styles, fashion connects cultures, communities, and individuals.

In many cultures, fashion is more than just what people wear. It is a link to history and identity. Take African communities, for example, where fabrics like Ankara or Kente carry deep meaning. These fabrics aren’t just beautiful but also tell the story of a rich heritage and bring people together by reminding them of their roots. In Japan, a kimono worn at a special event does the same thing, keeping tradition alive. These outfits, while different, serve a similar purpose of connecting people through shared history and pride in culture. At the same time, people around the world are adopting modern styles, and that has also created a sense of unity, as we see more people wearing similar designs, whether in New York, Lagos, or Tokyo.

Plus, fashion also brings people together through shared trends. When a new style becomes popular, it spreads across the globe. You might see people in different countries wearing the same sneakers, jackets, or dresses. It’s a way of connecting with others, even if you’ve never met. Whether it’s a well-known brand or a simple outfit, fashion is something everyone can relate to. When people from different places dress in similar ways, it shows how connected we are, even in a big, diverse world.

It is this secret that Farouk Adekunle has cracked that has made him a force to be reckoned with in the fashion industry. His 2022 collection is another resounding success locked in for the designer.

Farouk Adekunle Adepoju’s fashion brand, Titian Luxe, designs more than just mere clothes, they celebrate African heritage, identity, and modern style. With his Hot Afro-Chic Collection 2022, he and his team are showing how fashion can help people connect not just with each other but with their roots. The collection allows people to express their pride and identity through what they wear.

Africa has a rich history of fabrics, and each one has its own story. For example, the Ghanaian Kente cloth uses colours like gold, which stands for status and peace, and green, which means growth and renewal. Farouk’s collection uses these kinds of stories, weaving African culture into every piece of clothing. This collection will certainly help women look good and make them feel proud of where they come from and who they are.

The collection focuses on African heritage, using traditional textiles and meaningful designs. It celebrates African culture in a way that feels fresh and modern, making it perfect for today’s women who want to express their identity through fashion.

What makes this collection truly special is its focus on individual expression. Farouk says the Hot Afro-Chic collection is a way for women to show who they are and where they come from. It’s all about embracing your roots and standing out by being yourself. Wearing these clothes is simply you wearing your story, your history, and your culture.

The collection offers a wide variety of styles, patterns, and designs, so every woman can find something that fits her personality. 

The first outfit is a bold fashion statement. The mini skirt uses bright, colourful patterns that immediately grab attention. The skirt is paired with a sheer blouse, which adds a soft contrast. The puff sleeves give the blouse a dramatic and elegant feel, balancing the overall look.

One of the best parts of this design is its use of colour. The bright yellow, blue, and purple patterns on the skirt are striking and celebrate African culture. The mix of fabrics is also creative, with the sheer top adding a modern twist to the traditional print. The combination of a fitted skirt and a loose top creates a nice balance, flattering different body types.

However, there are some areas for improvement. The blouse feels a bit too loose. A more fitted top would give the outfit a neater look and enhance the wearer’s figure. The collar is also a bit too busy, as it uses the same bold print as the skirt. A simpler, solid-coloured collar might balance the design better.

The skirt’s length is quite short, which is great for casual wear. But offering a slightly longer version could make the outfit suitable for different occasions or people who prefer a bit more coverage. Also, adding accessories, like a statement belt or bold jewellery, could make the outfit even more stylish and personalised. But this depends on the preference of whoever is rocking the dress.

All in all, the outfit is beautiful. With a few small changes, such as adjusting the blouse’s fit and simplifying the collar, this design could appeal to more people while keeping its unique, cultural style.

Next on the lineup is another of Farouk’s creations whichis a jaw-dropper. The outfit features a long-sleeved collared shirt and a skirt with a high slit. The shirt has a bright mix of pink and yellow, while the skirt combines pink, blue, and grey. This combination of colours makes the outfit eye-catching and vibrant.

One good thing about this design is the colour contrast. The bright pink and yellow shirt brings energy to the outfit, while the colours in the skirt add depth. The high slit on the skirt is a bold choice that can make the look more stylish and sophisticated. It shows off the legs and adds a touch of elegance.

However, there are some areas for improvement. The fit of the shirt is important. The shirt is a bit too loose, making it look unkempt. A more fitted shirt could create a cleaner and sharper look. The collar should also be well-structured to maintain the polished appearance of the outfit.

Additionally, the high slit can be very stylish, but it’s important to make sure it’s not too high. What if someone who prefers more coverage decided to opt for the outfit? For a brand that creates pieces for every woman, this is a factor to consider. A moderate slit will be more comfortable and appropriate for various occasions. If the slit is too high, it might make the wearer feel uneasy.

Another recommendation is to balance the colours. Since the shirt is already bright, using a simpler design for the skirt would enhance the look. This will help the outfit feel more cohesive. The pink in the skirt can match the shirt, while the blue and grey can act as neutral colours to tone it down.

But all these in no way dim the fire of the outfit. It is a killer dress that has a fun and vibrant look with a lot of potential. 

That’s not all, the collection houses another mesmerising piece. The outfit is a free knee-length gown featuring a mix of brown, grey, and ash colours. The design has a relaxed and comfortable style, which is great for many occasions. The colourcombination gives it a modern and stylish look.

One positive aspect of this gown is its length. A knee-length dress is versatile and can be worn for both casual and semi-formal events. The free-flowing design adds a touch of comfort, making it easy to move in. The colours are also neutral, which allows the gown to be paired with different accessories.

However, the fit of the gown is important. If it is too loose, it may look shapeless on some body types. A more fitted waist or subtle structure can enhance the overall silhouette and create a more flattering shape. Adding a belt at the waist can help define the figure while maintaining comfort.

But then, who says this can’t be a personal choice? 

Another suggestion for Farouk is to add some design details. The gown could benefit from unique features, like a ruffled hem, interesting sleeves, or a subtle pattern. These elements can make the dress more visually appealing and unique.

Additionally, he could consider the colour balance. While brown, grey, and ash are nice together, introducing a pop of colour—like a bright scarf or accessories could make the outfit stand out even more. This touch of colour can add excitement and personality to the overall look.

Imagine a shade of bright red to bring out the vibrancy of the outfit. It would do this piece a lot of justice to have more colours, that way, you can’t miss it in a room full of people.

Overall, this knee-length gown has a lot of potential with its comfortable style and neutral colours. By improving the fit, adding some design details, and introducing a pop of colour, this gown can be transformed into a truly stylish and eye-catching outfit.

Adekunle’s message is clear with this collection; fashion is about confidence and empowerment. The Hot Afro-Chic collection encourages women to mix patterns, experiment with accessories, and break traditional fashion rules. The key is finding clothes that fit well and make you feel good. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it boosts your confidence, and that’s what Titian Luxe aims to do.

In the end, Titian Luxe has proven to be not just a fashion brandbut a medium for people to connect with their culture, with each other, and with a shared sense of pride in African heritage. The Hot Afro-Chic Collection 2022 shows how fashion can be a powerful tool for self-expression and a reminder of Africa’s rich, diverse heritage.

In end, fashion is a unifier and Farouk Adekunle is the mediator.