By Yemisi Suleiman
July 10th, 2023 was an evening of coastal enchantment, as I had the privilege of attending the private unveiling of Topkraft’s latest collection, “Rhythms of the Ocean,” in Lagos.
The event was intimate yet vibrant, reflecting the calm yet dynamic nature of the sea. The setting, right by the Lagos coastline, was a fitting backdrop, merging seamlessly with the collection’s theme that drew inspiration from the ever-changing waves and the serene beauty of the ocean.
The show opened with an understated yet captivating piece—a flowing black kaftan, adorned with delicate white appliqués. The simplicity of the dress was striking, allowing the intricate details to echo the quiet beauty of the ocean’s surface on a calm day. The kaftan’s fluid movement as the model walked was reminiscent of gentle waves, setting a tone of tranquillity and sophistication for the collection.
As the collection unfolded, I was struck by the diversity in design, each piece bringing a new dimension to the oceanic theme. There was a vibrant red blouse with dramatic, wide sleeves paired with sleek, high-waisted black trousers. The blouse’s fiery hue evoked the warmth of the setting sun over the ocean, while the trousers added a modern, urban edge. The contrast between the bold red and the classic black created a look that was both daring and refined, embodying the essence of a woman who is both powerful and poised.
Another standout was a black gown, shimmering with sequins that captured the light, much like the stars reflecting on a midnight sea. The gown’s silhouette was both dramatic and elegant, featuring a high slit that added a touch of allure without sacrificing its sophisticated charm. The gown moved gracefully with each step, evoking the fluidity of the tides, and was a perfect example of Topkraft’s ability to blend timeless elegance with contemporary design.
The colour choices in this collection were a testament to the versatility of coastal inspiration. From deep blacks that symbolised the ocean’s depths to vibrant reds and sunny yellows, each colour was chosen to evoke different emotions and aspects of the sea. One particularly memorable look was a bright yellow top paired with wide-leg black trousers. The top, with its airy, open-back design, captured the lightness of a breezy day by the shore, while the trousers grounded the ensemble, creating a harmonious balance that was visually striking.
The final look of the collection left a lasting impression—a bold combination of a bright yellow flowing top and black structured trousers. The top seemed to capture the very essence of a breezy day by the sea, its loose fit and vibrant hue bringing to mind the carefree nature of ocean waves. The black trousers added structure and contrast, grounding the look and making it perfect for a modern, sophisticated woman.
As the show concluded, it was evident that Olusola Hellen Tolulope had once again demonstrated her mastery of design. The “Rhythms of the Ocean” collection was not just a series of garments—it was an exploration of nature’s beauty, a reflection of the sea’s many moods translated into fabric and form. The event left me with a deep appreciation for the artistry and vision that Topkraft continues to bring to the fashion world, proving that fashion can indeed be a poetic expression of the natural world.