The Emergence of Anko – Elevating African Fashion on the Global Stage

Felix Inala is rapidly becoming a prominent figure in the UK fashion industry, seamlessly blending his Nigerian heritage with contemporary design through his innovative brand, Anko. Inala’s remarkable journey from Nigeria to the UK and the establishment of Anko is a testament to transformation, resilience, and creativity.

“Even while I was still in university in Nigeria, I worked in the creative space, styling fellow students for events. After graduating, I moved into the film industry, producing short films and handling costume direction for all the actors,” Inala shared, highlighting his early foray into the world of fashion and design, which set the stage for his future endeavors.

In 2021, Inala made the significant move to the UK to pursue a Master’s in International Business. The transition to London life was fraught with challenges, particularly a profound sense of isolation. A poignant moment came when a neighbor passed away and went undiscovered for six weeks, underscoring the absence of community. This experience profoundly influenced Anko’s mission. “Fashion played a crucial role in my life, helping me overcome my own struggles with low self-esteem and lone moments. It gave me confidence and a sense of belonging, which I wanted to pass on through my brand,” Inala explained. Anko, named after a Nigerian tradition of wearing matching outfits to symbolize unity and celebration, is dedicated to fostering a sense of community.

Inala’s personal battle with self-esteem significantly shaped his vision for Anko. “During my undergraduate years, I struggled with severe low self-esteem. I was often the quiet one in class, hardly interacting with anyone. That changed during a summer trip to Dubai with my parents, where I bought new clothes and started experimenting with styles,” he recalled. The positive reactions he received upon returning to Nigeria boosted his confidence and ignited the idea for Anko.

Starting a fashion brand as a black immigrant in the UK presented unique challenges. “There’s the issue of visibility and representation in the fashion industry, which often leans towards Eurocentric ideals. Breaking through these barriers requires extra effort to prove one’s worth and creativity. Financial challenges, building a network from scratch, and navigating a different regulatory landscape added to the complexity,” Inala noted. Despite these obstacles, he remained undeterred. “There’s often an unspoken expectation to conform to a certain style or standard that doesn’t necessarily reflect one’s heritage or creativity,” he said. Anko aims to challenge these stereotypes by showcasing the richness and sophistication of African fashion. “We invest heavily in using Nigerian artisans and sustainable practices, proving that African fashion can be sophisticated and innovative,” Inala emphasized.

Anko’s debut collection, launched on October 26, 2023, was met with widespread acclaim. Customers have praised the quality and the brand’s compelling story. “They’ve shared how wearing Anko makes them feel part of a community, which is exactly what we aim to achieve,” Inala said. This positive feedback has reinforced Anko’s mission to promote unity and interconnectedness through fashion. Looking forward, Inala is dedicated to expanding Anko’s collections and continuing to champion the values of unity and community. “We’re excited to expand our collections and continue promoting the values of unity and interconnectedness. We hope to reach more people and build a strong community around the brand,” he shared.

Felix Inala’s journey and the creation of Anko are powerful testaments to the strength of resilience, creativity, and cultural heritage. “I would just like to encourage everyone to find their confidence and community in whatever they do. Remember that fashion is not just about what you wear, but how it makes you feel and how it connects you with others. Anko is here to support that journey and to help everyone feel their best,” Inala concluded.

Felix Inala is not merely making a mark on the London fashion scene; he is redefining it, one design at a time. Through Anko, he is bringing the vibrancy of Nigerian culture to the global stage, fostering community, and showcasing the elegance and innovation inherent in African fashion.