FASHION REVIEW: CHIC CITY, THE LAND OF BOUNDLESS FASHION POSSIBILITIES.

Tosin Clegg

What if I told you that fashion is as unpredictable as the weather? One moment, the sun is shining, and the next, you’re caught in a surprise rainstorm. Just like that, fashion changes fast. One day, everyone is wearing oversized clothes, and the next, fitted outfits are back in style. 

Today, you might feel drawn to bold prints that pop, and tomorrow, simple, elegant designs might catch your eye. This mix keeps fashion exciting and fresh, inspiring us to try new things and step out of our comfort zones.

In the world of fashion, you have got to be ready for thesurprises and celebrate the unexpected that pushes boundaries. Talking about boundaries, the journey of Chic City and its founder, Mr Cletus Opara exemplifies how embracing the unexpected can lead to remarkable outcomes in the fashion industry. As he steered the competitive landscape of Nigerian fashion, Cletus not only broke free from traditional norms but also redefined what it means to create luxury clothing that resonates with authenticity and personal expression.

His 2022 Orofa Exclusive Collection shows his spirit of innovation, showcasing designs that blend commercial appeal with timeless elegance. Each garment merges vibrant coloursand rich textiles that reflect the essence of Nigerian culture while appealing to a global audience. 

Cletus’s vision to craft a brand that not only highlights individual style but also uplifts the narrative of African fashion was on full display. 

Let’s have a conversation about some of the pieces, shall we? 

One of the pieces in the collection screams class. This design features a bold two-piece set with a mix of traditional African print and modern styling. The deep blue background with golden floral patterns creates a striking contrast, making it an eye-catching ensemble. The off-shoulder top with ruffled sleeves adds a flirty touch to the outfit.  The high-neck detail keeps it elegant. The matching wide-leg pants offer a comfortable yet stylish fit, elongating the legs and creating a balanced silhouette.

However, there are tiny details that could take the look to the next level. One recommendation to enhance this look could be to explore varying sleeve lengths or asymmetry in the top to add a more dynamic edge to the overall design. Additionally, accessorising with bold jewellery or adding a contrasting belt might elevate the waistline, creating an even more structured and defined look.

Overall, it’s a beautifully designed outfit that captures the essence of African fashion. From the choice of durable fabric to the seam allowance and the functionality of the dress, it details a job well done. 

The collection also featured a design that many would call, a rare gem to behold. This design showcases a two-piece outfit featuring a mix of earthy orange, blue, and white tones in an abstract print. The loose-fitting top with ruched sleeves adds texture and volume, giving the outfit a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe. The high-waisted pants mirror the top’s print, creating a cohesive look that stands out. The overall silhouette is balanced, with wide-leg pants that add comfort while maintaining style.

One way to enhance this design might be to experiment with a slightly fitted waistline or belt to offer more definition to the figure. Additionally, playing with the sleeve style—perhaps shortening them could give the outfit a sharper, more polished look.

Overall, this is a fun and bold piece, perfect for making a statement. 

Cletus Opara did a good job with these designs and the collection is like a buffet, there is a lot to choose from. You don’t have to worry about what fits your style and what doesn’t. He definitely put every type of woman in mind—from the casual to the boss lady. 

By daring to experiment and challenge conventional boundaries, Chic City has become more than just a label. It is a movement that encourages others to embrace their unique identities and express themselves through fashion.

Cletus’s journey reminds us that true artistry lies in the willingness to explore uncharted territories and create something beautiful and meaningful out of the unexpected.

Just like we adapt to sudden changes in life—like when a friend surprises you with a visit or you get an unexpected job offer, you make the best of the situation. 

The truth is that our fashion choices evolve. That cosy oversized sweater that kept you warm on a chilly day? It can easily become a stylish piece for a spontaneous brunch with friends. For enviable designers like Cletus Opara, staying sensitive to this change and tapping into its potential is a way to stay ahead.

At the end of the day, fashion isn’t just about looking good; it’s about feeling confident and being true to yourself, no matter what the day brings. In a time when being unique is so important, embracing the unusual becomes a bold statement. It encourages us to break free from traditional styles and express who we really are. When you wear something that challenges the norm—like mixing patterns that shouldn’t go together or sporting a bold accessory—you’re telling everyone, “Hey, this is me, and I’m not afraid to show it.”

The collection is a roaring success and to be frank, it is an upgrade from last year’s collection. While the 2021 EnalegweCollection made waves and was incredibly well-received, Cletus Opara has taken things to a whole new level with this one. It’s clear he’s not resting on his past achievements; instead, he’s pushing the boundaries even further, setting a higher standard for others to follow.

The Enalegwe Collection was impressive in its own right, filled with bold designs and creative flair, but this latest collection showcases even more growth and refinement. The attention to detail, the blend of traditional and modern styles, and the use of luxurious fabrics all highlight. Cletus’s evolving talent and vision. By raising the bar, he’s not only solidified Chic City as a leading brand in Nigerian fashion but also inspired other designers to step up their game.

It’s not just about creating clothes anymore; with this collection he has shown that it’s about making a statement. And with the Orofa exclusive collection, Cletus has proven that he’s a force to be reckoned with, setting trends that will influence the fashion scene for years to come.

The future looks incredibly bright for Cletus Opara and his brand, Chic City. With the success of this year’s collection, it’s clear that Cletus is on a path to even greater achievements in the fashion industry. His unique skill with fabrics has already set him apart from many others, and this is just the beginning.

As his brand continues to grow, there’s no doubt that Cletus will expand his influence beyond Nigeria, making waves across Africa and eventually on the global fashion stage. With each collection, he’s been refining his craft, pushing creative boundaries, and developing a signature style that speaks to the luxury market. This bold vision and passion for storytelling through fashion suggest that he’s only scratching the surface of what’s possible.

In the coming years, we can expect to see Chic City gracing major runways, collaborating with international designers, and being featured in high-end fashion publications. Cletus Opara’s eye for detail and innovation will likely lead to more groundbreaking collections, each one more refined and daring than the last. Beyond just creating clothes, he will continue to shape the narrative of African fashion, showing the world that Nigerian designers can compete at the highest level.

With a growing fanbase, the potential for expanding into accessories, men’s wear, or even a lifestyle brand is on the horizon. As he stays true to his roots while embracing global trends, the future holds endless possibilities for Cletus Opara and his brand. There’s no limit to what he can achieve, and the fashion world should keep a close eye on what he does next.

We hope to see what next year’s collection holds….and the next.