By Rita Okoye

In 2020, the Nigerian fashion industry experienced styles that were showstoppers and game-changers. The season had dresses and attires that were most talked about. It was not just about how well the clothes stood out, but the attention to detail, cut-outs, and unique fabrics redefined the fashion industry for good.
The principle of, ‘Look Good, Feel Better’, sounds too good to be true.

It is surprising to see how it has served as a compass for professionals and fashion enthusiasts to discover their identity and showcase themselves through various clothing styles, creating a healthy sense of self-worth.
In our world today, we seem to pay more attention to the big things of life, forgetting that little things matter too.

On this note, you must understand that clothing is not just a piece of material that is joined together to form a beautiful piece draped over our bodies; it is a lively connection that controls our feelings and actions.

Dr Carolyn, a cognitive psychologist of the Fashion Department at the University of Arts, London, explicitly said that clothes are the closest thing to our bodies, they are our second skin, which is why we should be careful about the narrative we convey to the outside world, shaping our identity, and influencing our state of mind. Truthfully, our choice of dress has an impact on how we perceive ourselves, and how we are perceived by the outside world.

From the colours of the fabric to the combination used to make it a beautiful piece of clothing, these elements are capable of communicating your values. For example, someone who consistently wears bold and vibrant colours can be seen as confident and outgoing. On the other hand, someone who prefers neutral tones and minimalistic designs may be perceived as more reserved and introspective. Interestingly, our clothing choices also reflect our culture and background.

Therefore, if we associate a particular dress or colour with positive experiences, we’ll evoke such feelings as we go about our day. As one who is intentional about the clothes they wear, ensure you strategically choose clothes that align with your desired emotional state, shaping your thoughts and behaviour.

This brings us to commend the good works and achievements of Fabric Etcetera by Creative Director Olamide Afsat Adams. They are not just a fashion brand, but a catalyst for self-expression and identity formation. The brand is known for its use of high-quality hand-woven fabrics, especially Aso Oke, to celebrate the art of fashion.

Through their explicit and simple wears, Fabric Etcetera empowers women to embody their true selves. Each piece handcrafted by them is a masterful blend of artistry and craftmanship, that gives the wearer confidence and poise.
The brand’s attention to detail and quality ensures that every garment is a testament to the wearer’s personal style. Every element attached to an attire is aimed to bring out the best in the wearer, making them feel seen or heard.

In other words, Fabric Etcetera stands out in a world where fashion is reduced to mere trends, thereby celebrating self-expression and personal style.

Let’s talk about some of their show-stopping designs in this collection.
Dress Mia

This lovely and sophisticated fashion style is the real definition of ‘Don’t just show up, show them who you are without saying a word.’ Every woman deserves to be seen as a star and adorning yourself with this elegant attire will make you shine so brightly in all your glory.
The 2020 collection themed the Mia Collection can be described as graceful and exquisite. Fabric Etcetera understood the assignment and delivered an intriguing masterpiece as always.

The inspiration for the collection blends modern design with the traditional cultural heritage. This simple dress combines both modern design with traditional elements in a very clean and subtle way.

The bodice is crafted from hand-woven (Aso Oke) fabric. This blend of contemporary style and cultural heritage adds a distinct and stylish touch to the dress.

The sleeves feature a slight puff at the bottom, adding a hint of volume and a playful flair without overwhelming the simplicity of the outfit. The designer paid attention to the detailing of the court neckline, which perfectly suits the styling, giving the dress a classic appeal to any woman who dares to embrace a different look. Keeping the modern spin, the wear introduces the lace fabric turning it into a well-cutout arm.

With or without accessories, the outfit is a head-turner. This solves an age-long problem of constantly searching for matching jewellery to wear with your clothes.
You no longer need to worry about what to wear or what’s the best-suited accessories for the outfit. Mia’s Collection has got you covered with its glamorous and unique sewing. The length of this piece is meticulously considered, creating an agreeable flow that connects with the wearer’s desires. The garment is crafted to skim the body with elegance.
Overall, this collection stands out because it creates a flattering feminine silhouette that’s perfect for any occasion.
The neutral colour of the fabric evokes a calm and soft mood, such that it evokes a sense of serenity and sophistication. The fabric is dyed in a range of gentle shades. The colour is carefully selected to complement the wearer’s skin tone, creating a balance that enhances the model’s natural beauty. To add some edge to the look, pair the dress with high heels and a sparkly clutch bag. Ensure it these shoes complement the light shade of the dress.

The artistry choice of fabric is truly exceptional. Olamide Afsat Adams’s–the Creative Director– selection of material is a testament to her attention to detail and commitment to quality. Aside from being committed to detail, the fabric also assures the wearer the experience of a lifetime, one that leaves them in awe even after they have pulled off the outfit. This is a deliberate choice so that it will grip elegantly on the body, creating a soft, feminine, and sophisticated outlook.
The combination of the net fabric and lace material creates a delightful opposition that adds depth and visual interest to the garment. The way Olamide manipulated the fabrics to create unique textures and effects is mind-blowing. The use of embroidery adds an extra layer to the garments which creates a sense of tactility that invites the customer to touch and explore.
This shows the excellence of Fabric Etcetera, and how its craftsmanship not only complements the design but creates a sensory experience that makes the wearer excited.
The subtle neckline is a beautiful touch, adding charm to the overall design. The neckline is high enough to be modest yet low enough to be alluring. It features a defined waistline. The waist is nipped in, creating a balance.
The overall look is one of elegance and sophistication. The creamy nude dress can be dressed as a long gown. It can be matched with beautiful heeled sandals, raising your level of confidence and improving your style. Add a black or brown bag to give your outlook that cool and sophisticated look.
Overall, this dress is a show stopper and it is capable of giving you the glamour that you deserve.

Dress Liana

The choice of lace fabric is a perfect fit for this style. Dress Liana is specially designed for the conservative yet stylish party guest. If you’re looking for the perfect party style to grab the attention of guests who see you, you can opt for this. The simplicity and stunning detailing made the outfit a true definition of timeless elegance. This dress features a feminine floral-patterned baby pink fabric, finished with a waterfall asymmetrical flounce fully studded in pink and silver rhinestones.
This exquisite high neck cut and three-quarter sleeves give the entire outfit a unique finish paving the way for the detailed flounce to make it shine. The peplum cover starting from the waistline concludes the outfit into a befitting dress that is sure to turn heads. The Liana Dress is perfect for occasions like weddings, red-carpet events, and high-end parties. It is designed to accentuate the wearer’s body curve, making the wearer feel warm and admirable.
To style the Liana Dress, pair it with some statement jewellery, such as a bold cocktail ring and pairs of earrings. You can also add a pair of high heels to complete the look.
As a fashionista, your identity is on the line. So, make your statement with this elegant and head-turner style, and create a lasting impression on many minds.

This image shows us the full view of the outfit. The Liana’s dress features a fitted, mermaid silhouette that hugs the body in all the right places. The high neck adds a touch of balance to the overall design. Most of all, it creates a beautiful frame for the face, drawing attention to the style’s features.
Just as previously discussed, the sleeves of the Liana Dress are perfect for making an outstanding statement, creating a beautiful effect when you walk in the dress. The fabric is available in a range of colours, including ivory, champagne, and blush. Each colour is stunning and you can go for any of them as you desire.
Additionally, it has a floor-sweeping design that adds a touch of glamour and class to the overall design.
In all, this is a season to get serious with your look. The outfit you wear can significantly impact your identity by conveying your personality and attitudes to others. Wearing these sophisticated attires can make you feel good about yourself and boost your confidence and self-esteem. In other words, wearing clothes that are original to who you are can help you be your true self.