Paul Williams Atelier Launches ‘The Sovereign Trio,’  Collection at Birmingham Fashion Week 

Fashion outfit Paul Williams Atelier  has debuted its collection, ‘The Sovereign Trio,’ at Birmingham Fashion Week 2024 in the UK.

The brand aimed  to exhibit and promote sustainable fashion and African culture via traditional designs infused with modern vigor.

Speaking, the brand’s Lead Designer,  Paul Akpukpor stated that ‘The Sovereign Trio’  is a symbol of unity, strength, and tradition through a fashion lens. 

“The collection features a fusion of modern silhouettes with traditional Nigerian elements, bold colors, and intricate patterns.  With a focus on sustainability, Paul Williams makes use of carefully sourced materials like linen, silk, and cotton, utilizing techniques such as laser cutting and same-color embroidery to minimize waste while maintaining quality craftsmanship.

“Each piece in the collection pays homage to Nigerian cultural attire, including influences from the Yoruba agbada, the Igbo Isiagu, and the Hausa Babbanriga. These traditional elements are designed with modern cuts, making the designs both culturally expressive and wearable”, he said. 

In addition to its showcase at Birmingham Fashion Week, Akpukpor said that the brand is actively supporting the next generation of fashion designers. 

“Through collaborations with universities in both Nigeria and the UK,  we are promoting innovative design practices and nurturing young talent. These partnerships include workshops, mentorship programs, and research initiatives focused on ethical fashion and cultural heritage.

He informed that the brand is engaging with students to instill the values of sustainability and cultural preservation. 

“This initiative helps ensure that future designers prioritize ethical practices in the fashion industry. By learning these principles, students are better equipped to build successful careers, create jobs, and contribute to solving unemployment issues after graduation.

“The brand also aims to sell Nigerian culture to the world  with the show at Birmingham Fashion Week being its debut. 

Akpukpor said the brand’s international debut  and approach to blending cultural storytelling, through fashion, further underlined  its potential to resonate with a global audience. 

He hinted at an effort to solidify presence in the international market, as he continues to develop upcoming collections.