By Yemisi Suleiman

On a warm evening in Abuja, the 1st of June 2023, I attended the private unveiling of “Timeless Threads,” the latest collection by Stately Styles.

Helmed by the visionary Olugbenga Niyi-Leigh, the event was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment I stepped into the venue, I knew I was in for a treat.

The setting was a perfect blend of opulence and intimacy. The venue’s sleek design, with its polished floors and softly illuminated chandeliers, created a welcoming yet luxurious atmosphere.

Ankara-inspired artwork lined the walls, while a subtle floral aroma wafted through the air, setting the tone for an evening dedicated to celebrating African craftsmanship.

As the first model walked out, the room fell silent in awe. The opening piece was a yellow two-piece featuring trousers and a short-sleeved shirt with a collar. Oval patterns, each containing tree-like designs, adorned the fabric in shades of dark blue, light blue, and brown. It was a piece that exuded both warmth and sophistication, capturing the essence of nature through fashion.

Following this was a light blue two-piece set that stole the spotlight. The trousers and long-sleeved shirt were decorated with an intricate array of black, green, and dark blue swirls and floral designs. What made this ensemble truly unique was the diagonal section on the shirt, left clear in plain light blue, offering a minimalist touch that contrasted beautifully with the vibrant patterns.

The turquoise two-piece that came next was a work of art. The trousers and long-sleeved shirt featured roses in black, red, green, and white, set against a striking turquoise backdrop. White accents around the collar and wrists added a refined edge, making it an ideal choice for a formal event with a splash of personality.
One of the more playful designs was a blue two-piece with white polka dots, overlaid with pink, green, and purple leaf motifs.

The short-sleeved top paired perfectly with the matching trousers, creating a look that was fresh, vibrant, and undeniably stylish.
The light blue two-piece with dark blue and orange flowers was another standout. The long-sleeved shirt incorporated jean fabric on the collar, pocket, and sleeves—a detail that added a modern, casual flair to the otherwise classic design. This was a piece that effortlessly bridged the gap between traditional and contemporary menswear.
The maroon two-piece, featuring trousers and a short-sleeved shirt, was a bold statement. The geometric shapes, including cotton-like forms and diamond patterns, brought a structured yet dynamic energy to the ensemble. It was the perfect outfit for a man unafraid to stand out.

Olugbenga Niyi-Leigh closed the show with a striking two-piece set in yellow and blue. The trousers and short-sleeved shirt, adorned with tree-filled ovals, left a lasting impression. The design was bold yet grounded, a fitting end to a collection that celebrated the beauty of contrast and harmony.
“Timeless Threads” is more than a collection—it’s a celebration of culture, artistry, and modernity. Stately Styles has redefined men’s fashion with this collection, proving that Ankara fabric can be as versatile as it is beautiful. Olugbenga Niyi-Leigh has truly set a new standard, and I can’t wait to see what he creates next.