A Review of Quadri’s first men’s piece

Tosin Clegg

Adegoke Quadri, the lead designer and owner of Adto Fashion House, whose brand is synonymous with high-quality women’s fashion, recently made a significant move by launching its first men’s clothing christened Aládé.

In Yoruba language, Aládé is a compound word derived from àlà (which means “crown”) and dé (which means “to wear” or “to put on”). So, Aládé translates roughly to “the one who wears the crown” or “crowned one.” It is commonly associated with royalty, leadership, or someone of high status, as wearing a crown is symbolic of kingship and authority in Yoruba culture.

After a perusal of the outfit, one will immediately notice its lush and grandeur, putting credence to the name given to the piece, deserving of royalty. The outfit strikes of fine balance between traditional Yoruba fashion and contemporary style, showcasing a refined taste in clothing. The attire features a rich brown fabric with understated cream accents, which enhances its elegance and provides a pleasing contrast. This gives it a grounded, dignified appearance, making it suited for formal or semi-formal occasions, especially cultural gatherings.

The top is tailored with three-quarter sleeves, creating a modern twist on the traditional agbada or buba style. The front of the top is embellished with vertical cream panels that align perfectly with the brown fabric, adding a clean, geometric element to the design. These vertical lines subtly elongate the torso, providing a graceful form and creating a high-end look.

The overall fit of the clothing is slightly loose yet structured, offering comfort while maintaining a polished appearance. The choice of length and cut ensures mobility and comfort for the wearer. In essence, this outfit embodies a smart blend of simplicity and elegance, paying homage to Yoruba heritage while aligning with cutting-edge styles.