Nigerian Designer Ivie Osula Showcases African Creativity to The World at FashionEVO

By Omolabake Fasogbon

In recent years, African fashion has been thrust into the global spotlight, with Nigerian designers taking center stage in a rapidly evolving industry.

This rise is driven in part by the visionaries like Ivie Osula, founder of DWL Fashion, who have made it their mission to push Nigerian and African fashion to the forefront of the international scene.

FashionEVO’s recent showcase at the Africa Creative Market (ACM) exemplified Nigeria’s leadership in African fashion. The event, themed “Innovation Meets Imagination,” provided a platform for designers, like Osula, to showcase their work to a global audience. It also featured discussions and exhibitions that addressed crucial issues, such as access to international markets and funding for African creatives.

Speaking at the event, Yetty Ogunnubi, founder of FashionEVO said “The ACM event is known for promoting growth and innovation in Africa’s creative sector. Also, the expert-led masterclasses and sessions will enrich the experience, offering attendees practical knowledge and inspiration to shape the future of African fashion.”

SImilarly, Osula, who served as a speaker at the event said “The event allowed Nigerian fashion to shine in all its glory, from the vibrant designs on mannequins to the lively panel conversations on financing and global market access.”

“We are not just showcasing fabrics but also showcasing a global narrative about Africa’s potential and its limitless creativity,” Osula continued.  “We have gone beyond the conventional ‘African prints’; we now have globally relevant designs with intricate details and quality craftsmanship that can stand side by side with international brands,”

The event also focused on how African designers can leverage technology to push boundaries in the fashion industry. Osula’s own experience, having traveled internationally and showcased her designs, demonstrates the power of events like FashionEVO in shifting perceptions.

“I have seen firsthand how the global perception of African fashion has changed. When I returned to Qatar after the event, people were amazed at the quality and innovation coming out of Africa. This shift is largely due to the work being done by platforms like FashionEVO,” she said. “We are not waiting for the world to acknowledge us anymore. We are showing up, showcasing our talents, and telling our stories ourselves”.

Through her work at DWL Fashion and involvement in initiatives like FashionEVO, Ivie Osula is helping to pave the way for Nigerian and African fashion to take its rightful place on the world stage, shifting global perceptions and highlighting the richness and diversity of African culture.