By Josephine Agbonkhese

Emerging fashion designer Mariam Aliu Oizah made a striking impression with the debut of her final-year collection, “Echoes of Eko”, unveiled at the Yaba College of Technology graduate showcase.

Drawing inspiration from the rich visual and cultural rhythms of Lagos, the collection fused traditional African prints with contemporary silhouettes, balancing boldness with refinement.

From Ankara off-shoulder dresses to structured suiting, Mariam’s work demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of shape, colour, and cultural narrative.

“The goal was to capture the layered identity of modern African women — proud of heritage, yet dynamic in global expression,” Mariam said.

The showcase attracted the attention of key industry insiders, including renowned creative directors and established brand founders, who were invited to assess and mentor select graduates. Feedback praised Mariam’s strong sense of direction, technical finishing, and her seamless storytelling through fabric and form.

As part of the academic requirement, each student presented not only garments but also their full design journey — including concept sketches, construction techniques, and styling. Mariam’s project stood out for its clarity, originality, and ambition.

Her collection has since sparked interest from stylists and editorial teams in Lagos and beyond, marking her as one to watch in Africa’s next generation of fashion creatives.