By Yemisi Suleiman
Have you noticed that people who wear clothes are comfortable and exude more confidence than others? This is the power of a powerful style. What you wear influences how you show up every day.

But what exactly is “Personal Style”? It is simply wearing clothes that say who you are and align with your personal comfort and authenticity.

Many people still find themselves buying clothes that don’t reflect their identity. This is a result of the need to chase fashion trends and seasons. While this is not entirely bad, trends never last. This is why personal style is key to breaking free.

Fashion should be a means of making a personal statement, even before words are spoken. And the Lukabi 2024 collection embodies this truth: fashion that allows self-expression.

Behind the brand is a talented fashion designer, Lukman Abioye Ayorinde, a man on a mission to redefine the African fashion space with classy and comfortable women’s wear. After completing a fashion training course at JemiRiana African Fashion in 2017, Lukman launched his brand, “Lukabi”, in 2019.

Taking advanced training reveals his deep passion for true fashion, one that caters to the everyday ‘confident’ woman.
Confidence is the new look, and for Lukabi, each piece is a commitment to making every woman feel and look confident, regardless of size or body type.
Without further ado, let’s explore the Lukabi 2024 collection.

The first piece here is not your usual flowing dress; it sets the stage for the collection. With the attention to detail and clean lines, the dress already makes a bold entry.

The dress is made from two different materials in two tones. The choice of fabric colour is a smart move. They blend smoothly, drawing the eyes to the dress. The cloth, which comes in layers, has the upper section in a white hue. And then the gown transitions to the peach bodice.

The way it is crafted is quite distinct, leaving onlookers with the question of whether the peach fabric is worn on the dress or attached to it. But then, at the lower edge of the dress, the white layer is visible.

The transition from the white to the peach forms a V-line at the bust area, adding intrigue to the design. From the view, the piece continues in its flow, looking sharp on the model.

Now, the sleeves and collar are another part that works nicely. The short sleeves, also in peach colour, are simple and neat. They frame the wearer, adding more shape to the already structured gown.

The collar, also in white, has a high, mock-neck style. While it extends high to the neck, it doesn’t look tight or uncomfortable.
Again, just at the lower edge of the peach section of the dress, the hemline has a layered effect in the form of a wavy element. The dress draws the line between structure and fluidity, making it more versatile and wearable for different people. The length of the gown, just above the knee, is also smart.

From the back view, the gown has a zipper, which further adds to the structured fit of the design. The zipper adds functionality, rather than being a decorative element.

Although the designer has done well with the piece, there is still a need for a few adjustments to elevate it further. First, the way the peach and white fabrics are layered can be improved to make the transition smoother. This can be achieved by adding some embellishments, such as a delicate trim or textured details. Doing this could move the piece from just plain to a statement piece for different occasions.

Overall, the piece is a definition of style, balance, and intention. It shows how Lukabi is not just a brand that designs clothes, but one that tells their customers’ story with fabric, colour, and form. This first look has set a promising tone for the rest of the collection. Shall we look at the second piece?

Most black and grey combinations look ordinary. But this is very different.
The piece features a top and trousers. One might be tempted to breeze through it, but on a closer look, it does well in how it harmonises the colour. This is what makes it different from other black-and-grey combinations.
The top has a grey and black pattern. The choice of fabric is very commendable. Rather than being an all-black attire, the fabric of the top adds a different feel to the entire outfit. It blends perfectly with the black trousers. The top’s neckline is a square-like shape and is neatly finished.

However, it is the sleeves and the design around the waist that set the piece apart. The short sleeves have an interesting detail on them. On it, the design acts like a coverage, but it gives a unique edge to an otherwise simple sleeve. And then, the top carries another detail around the waist. They are also structured, but they have a standing fitness.

Moving to the trousers. The black trousers balance the top. They are wide and flowing, blending structure and movement. The fabric appears to be velvet. However, they bring warmth and softness, also adding a shiny glow to the trousers. As seen from this angle, a zip joins the upper bodice of the outfit.

Still, no piece is without adjustments. The length of the trousers might not work well for all wearers. People of shorter height would find the outfit overwhelming. Due to the length of the trousers, those with petite stature might end up sweeping the floors as they walk or completely let go of the outfit, and this does not do well for the designer sales-wise. To correct this, the designer could consider a more versatile length or slightly tailoring the hemline, without tampering with the elegance of the trousers.

Additionally, the design around the waist could be improved with more defined tailoring, which would balance the structured detail of the top.
That said, the harmony of the outfit can’t be denied. The piece redefines the story of the black and grey combination as dull. With this piece, Lukabi tells a story of confidence: out of something simple can come bold statements.

Here is another creative piece from the Lukabi 2024 collection. One might think it is only a top and skirt combination. But the sleeveless piece is a masterclass of bold colours and embellishments.

The top half of the outfit is in black and red hues. The background is black, but across the chest area is a splash of red and white band. This adds a distinct edge to the top. In contrast to just having a plain black top, the addition of the red part and white fringes is so thoughtful. They both aid visual interest, drawing the eyes downward.

However, while the fringes are quite bold, they might feel too heavy for some wearers. A simpler decorative cut would work well without overshadowing the design.
The neckline is clean but could be reconsidered. The dress is already without sleeves, but having a more structured neckline would balance this out.

And then the skirt. It reaches just below the knee and is also red. The skirt has a straight cut, but it doesn’t lack movement. At the hemline, a black lace overlay is applied to the skirt. This provides a sheer and textured finish to the skirt.

At the back, the skirt has a slight cut. This feature better aids movement for the wearer. The finishing of the skirt is quite impressive, and the slit at the back adds just the right amount of comfort and ease when walking.

The piece is another statement of confidence. For women who want to show up powerfully in that boardroom meeting or office, this is the outfit. With the right accessories, the piece can transform from simply creative to truly exceptional.

In summary, all pieces of the 2024 collection empower women to look confident without compromising on personal style. Remember, Confidence is the new look!