By Rita Okoye

There’s something magnetic about a man who knows how to dress. You may not be aware of it, but if truth be told, you often catch yourself staring and fighting not to steal another glance at a man who is well-dressed if you are a lady. And if you are a man, you would probably admire his look. 

Men who take out time to look good would always top the chart for us, and Naba clothing has proven to embrace the duty of styling both men and women in ways that not only elevate look but also embrace culture unapologetically. Founded by the designer Oluwadamilola Adeola, this fashion brand expresses cultural and modern attire like no other. Their style of clothing ranges from printed pieces to sophisticated suits, leaving no space for timidity and discomfort. Naba clothing is truly at the top of its game, and today, together, we will be looking at its 2021 collection. 

Sectioned into two, Naba’s 2022 collection builds a journey of Afro goodness and Suit calmness. But today, I have decided to explore their suit line of the collection. So, brace yourself, because you are about to enjoy every piece of creativity and composure that comes with this collection. 

 The first look opens with a deep emerald-green suit. It is bold yet relaxed. The green jacket is paired with a crisp white shirt and polka dot tie. This look commands attention without even begging for it. Also, from the shoulder to the waist, the tailoring looks quite detailed. Which means the wearer will have more confidence rocking this. With this fit, there is enough charisma and energy in the building.

To all the gentlemen in the house, if calm and collected is your style, then this green suit is definitely for you. 

Another thing that catches the attention is the mid-waist belt, ‘what a way to style a suit’. The belt definitely gives the outfit an action figure look. In my honest opinion, the detailing in the attire attests to expert skills. From the smooth fabric and soothing colour, to the clean cut and signature designs, this outfit is ready to walk into any formal and occasional event.

However, even with the strength that the outfit radiates, there is room for refinement. The trousers are the first thing that catches the eye. While they are well-fitted, I believe they could be more defined below the knee. 

What I recommend: A more tapered finish below the knee would modernise the leg line and enhance the overall flow. Also, I think the crossbody bag stylishly interrupts the suit’s carriage. To accessorise for more carriage, I recommend a clutch bag rather than the one currently in use. 

Moving on to the shoes, because there are none currently on. A pair of monk straps or velvet loafers will blend in perfectly with the fit, so I recommend that. After all, shoes are a reflection of your style, and they can’t be missed.

The second outfit comes in and shifts the mood from calm to ‘I am here’. The look features a yellow blazer and olive-green trousers. This combination feels both grounded and daring. The blazer is the top hero here, obviously. It sits well on the shoulders and creates a softness that eases into the white inner shirt. I love the energy it brings to the room because it is unmatched. For what it is worth, attaching a white pocket square was not a bad idea. I totally agree with the extra inclusion.

Now, just wait for it. 

At the neck region, the designer included a detail that left me smiling from ear to ear. He tucked a vintage scarf into the white shirt. Excuse my key observation, but this most definitely gives off the ‘Prince Charles’ look, and I love it. The designer’s use of something different, other than a tie, was really creative. I applaud that. 

This wonderful piece can be worn anywhere, either to work, to events, on dates, or even to church. It simply gives the ‘all-purpose’ feel.

Still, the shirt beneath the blazer feels too safe.

What I recommend: A patterned shirt or even a subtle print would add more depth and intrigue to the outfit. Also, I think the trousers will do more justice to the overall look if it is a slightly less cropped. Right now, it looks way jumpy and might not be good for the finishing look. I suggest a longer hem or a gentle break at the ankle wrap up what looks like a breath of fresh air. 

With the look coming together, the next and final adjustment is the shoes. I recommend a suede Chelsea boot to give the outfit an ultimate appearance.

The final look comes in with a navy-blue blazer paired with crisp white trousers. The colour of the blazer is the main focus. It is calm, but it also speaks. It anchors the outfit’s perfection and blends in well with the white trousers. This kind of jacket is what I like to call ‘Boardroom friendly’.

The pocket square and green crossbody bag introduce a modern edge to the look, while adding a splash of colour. I also think that the colour picked for the trousers was a bold choice. Many people don’t really fancy the idea of putting on white because of the hassle and extra care that comes with it. But white is truly a spectacular colour. It lights up the room and projects peace and calm. In this case, the white trousers definitely lighten the look of this outfit. It brings a soft visual feel that complements the energy of the navy-blue blazer. What am I here for if not to appreciate a man who can rock a white pant?

But even in the peace, there could still be traces of a storm. The first noticeable thing here is the cropped hem of the trousers. This structure can definitely work in an editorial setting, but in the real world, it risks feeling incomplete.

What I recommend: My suggestions are that the hem be lowered a bit to give the overall look the balance and structure that it needs to shine. Also, this outfit could be matched with a lovely pair of loafers, either in oxblood colour or deep green. This addition will not only complete the look, but it will keep it grounded. 

Now for the shirt, I think it’s good, but it could be better. What I will recommend here is a pattern or texture shirt to add more intrigue beneath the blazer. Also, the tie could be swapped with something with a bit more personality (like a knit or a bold stripe). 

Nevertheless, this outfit is fit to close the collection of Naba’s clothing. It’s composed, it’s confident, and it’s fashionably aware. What I love about every piece here is that it offers men a way to express themselves with style and comfort. 

So far, the journey through Dami’s 2022 collection has been nothing short of entertaining and educational. This brand has shown how modern Nigerian menswear is growing and changing. One can see how the designer pays attention even to the littlest detail, like integrating a vintage scarf and a crossbody bag into his style. Dami’s collection carries some of the playful, expressive style we often see from Orange Culture by Adebayo Oke-Lawal, while still keeping the neat and polished finish that Mai Atafo is known for. Every look from the emerald green to the navy blue blazer comes off amazing in this collection. Naba clothing proves that they not only clothe men, but they do so with style and confidence.

To dim the light on this collection is to water down the efforts and creativity of the designer and his entire team. So, in reference to this, let’s close this collection not because we have had enough of Naba clothing, but because we wait in anticipation to see what other promises it brings to men who don’t just want to wear clothes but embody confidence.