By Rita Okoye

Designs are not just about aesthetics, they serve as a connection between human experience, intention and purpose.

There are several types of designers in our world today; graphic designers who create visual content for print and digital media; product designers who develop and design physical products, set designers who create and design the physical environments for film, television and theatre, and of course fashion designers who create clothing designs, just to name a few.

These set of people are considered artists because they make art, which is seen, used and appreciated. However, in this review, we’d place more focus on fashion designers.
Simply put, fashion designers are professionals who design and create clothing accessories.

Now, there are several reasons why some designers create certain designs or why they create designs at all. Some designs are created to show identity and empowerment, in this case, designers use their designs as a method of showcasing their identity and belief, expressing who they are and who they want to be. Some also create designs as a platform for self-expression. These designs are a means by which the designers communicate their ideas and emotions.

Back in the day, fashion design was not a serious or engaging industry, especially in Africa. Most African designers were making outfits for the sole purpose of making a profit. They paid little to no attention to how their designs affected people, or what they communicated to people.

They barely even made an effort to source high-quality materials for their designs. All they did was go with the flow and keep creating the same designs over and over again. Even if you have to go with the trend, as an artist and a creative, your designs need to have a tweak.

In today’s day and age, these fashion designers are steadily changing the game, by creating fashion statements that embrace new trends to creating design pieces that tell a story that is appreciated and meets the needs and wants of the consumer. Designers now prioritize intentionality in design which encourages them to create unusual patterns and styles that not only make them stand out but also gain international recognition.

People who wear clothes from big brands, love to look different and have attention on them. When celebrities attend events, they appear all dressed up in elegant ruffle dresses, statement pieces and styles that accentuate their curves, beautifully done embroideries on jackets and so on.

The outfits they put on for these events are not regular overused designs; rather, they are carefully selected and intentionally made.
For fashion designers, the designs they create precede them.

People tend to mention the name of their designer on red carpets. And, of course, beautiful accolades are extended. Now, speaking of names, a popular name in Africa’s fashion industry who came in with her ‘A’ game is Atinuke Mary Adeosun of Eleganz Couture.
Atinuke is a fashion designer who creates admirable and timeless design pieces that express art and culture. As the design industry evolves, she is sure to evolve as well, while maintaining her signature style and elegant striking patterns.

Her designs are characterised by their elegant flares and unique stitches that display creativity and provide comfort. The use of rich fabrics is one of the qualities her designs embody. Her choice of fabric, which is always suitable for each design, is one of the reasons why she is the topic and the top pick.
With new seasons comes new design trends and most definitely, new collections. So, it’s 2024, and Atinuke presents her 2024 Melange Collection which we will be reviewing in the next paragraph.

Hasta la Vista Set

The 2024 Melange Collection is designed to break limits while remaining rooted in timeless elegance. One of the standout pieces in this collection is the “Hasta La Vista Set,” a two-piece garment that promises both style and versatility. This review delves into the design details, fabric choices, functionality, and overall market appeal of this set.

Key Details
This admirable design is one of many from Atinuke’s Melange collection. It features the elegant duchess fabric, which is suitable as it echoes “luxury” that is communicated through the ambience, material and attention to detail. The design is characterised by flares, as seen on the jacket and pants.
The two stepped lowered flared trousers combined with the long sleeves of the jacket is a signature piece that suggests a bold and confident aesthetic that aligns well with contemporary trends. This set offers a range of sizes from 8(s) to 18(xl) which is commendably inclusive and the addition of a black zipper on the jacket suggests ease of wear.

This set comes in three colour options: emerald green, burnt orange, and black. Each colour offers a distinct vibe – emerald green for a rich, luxurious feel, burnt orange for a bold, modern look, and black for a classic, versatile option.

This particular piece embodies a refined sense of elegance, remaining true to Atinuke’s hallmark style with a subtle sophistication. The design’s understated beauty is highlighted by the poet, sleeves type, which not only provide exceptional comfort but also offer high styling flexibility and introduce a delicate, yet distinct, touch of individuality to the garments.

The flares present in the jacket and the pants enhance the overall silhouette, adding a layer of sophistication that complements the collection’s timeless appeal without negatively impacting the simplicity of the attire. This careful balance of comfort and uniqueness reflects Atinuke’s dedication to creating fashion that is both timeless and gracefully distinctive, while also channelling a subtle hint of vintage charm.

The Hasta La Vista Set is undoubtedly a visually striking piece that will appeal to fashion-forward individuals looking to make a statement. Moreover, its bold design, coupled with the fabric’s comfort and versatility, will enhance its appeal to a broader audience. For those who prioritise style and comfort, this set offers a compelling option. Also, it most definitely is a go-to choice for those seeking an adaptable, easy-to-wear ensemble.
Finally, the Hasta La Vista Set stands out for its unique design and high-quality fabric, which is a practical choice for all consumers.

Peony Set

Another of the noteworthy pieces from this collection is the Peony Set – a two-piece ensemble designed to express goodwill, love, and honour. Let’s explore the design elements, fabric choices, functionality, and market appeal of the Peony Set.

Key Details
The Peony Set showcases a cropped top paired with a high-waist A-line skirt, creating a youthful and feminine look. The off-shoulder cropped top, with its tulle net short sleeves, adds a gentle, delicate touch to the ensemble, while the A-line skirt gives a flattering look.
The design is no doubt trendy and appealing to everyone who appreciates modern, chic outfits. Moreover, the off-shoulder crop top remains stylish and not too revealing. The set’s playful look, enhanced by the tulle net details, makes it as ideal for all kinds of events.
The Peony Set is fashioned from an elegant mix of Mikado fabric and tulle net giving a delicate balance between structure and softness. Mikado fabric is loved for its luxurious feel and subtle sheen, making it well-suited for both formal, semi-formal and non-formal occasions.

The tulle net on the sleeves adds a gentle layer of texture and visual appeal. The use of high-quality materials hints at durability and the structured nature of Mikado does not affect comfort. The sequence provides a touch of sparkle which further makes the design pieces stand out.

With a size range from 8 (s) to 18 (xl), the Peony Set is designed to fit women of all body types. The high-waist A-line skirt is a versatile design that gives a comfortable feel while still maintaining stylishness. The back zipper on the top ensures that it is easy to wear. The set’s design is aesthetically pleasing and is a practical choice for those seeking comfort in style. If you are looking for a versatile outfit that can transition seamlessly between different settings, then this is the one for you.

This Set is available in a sky-blue colour with royal blue details, giving a fresh and vibrant palette that is perfect for all occasions. The colour combination is both elegant and eye-catching which is suitable for all skin tones.
The Peony Set is described as suitable for all occasions as its bold colour and design details make it appropriate for several events, such as weddings, garden parties, birthday celebrations, brunch and even hangouts with the girls.

Atinuke did her big one with this set which stands out as a beautifully crafted piece within the 2024 Melange Collection, offering a blend of modern design and luxurious materials. The combination of a cropped top and A-line skirt remains trendy and the versatility appeal to a broader market.

The Peony Set is a striking ensemble that will likely resonate with fashion enthusiasts who appreciate well-crafted, statement pieces. For those looking for a unique outfit that combines elegance with a touch of whimsy, this set was made specifically for you.

This collection is carefully made to promote African culture while showcasing creativity as well. From the quality of each material to the detailing of the flares and sleeves, it is evident that Atinuke’s designs are nothing like others. Her creative ideas and originality speak for her.