By Josephine Agbonkhese

The presentation of Eric’s introspective collection at the tenth Green October event, organised by La Mode magazine and Affinity Echo, was not just a display of looks; the event served as a voice for the system of negotiations on past and present issues of formality and freedom, as well as a more open expression.

Green October 2024 hits the bullseye of diversity and inclusion, which are deeply rooted in social service actions in support of the plight of people with physical disabilities.

Eric Akinnaso of Eric By Motifs, a Nigerian fashion designer, has, through his minimalist and culturally exploratory approach in his work, brought a considerable balance to the philosophy of solemnity.

This was made even more emphasised in the aspect of furthering this contrast into a sound that may speak clearly while touching on the private and institutionalised experiences that have resonated in the fabric of the universe. It is this and more that nicely sums up the Affinity Echo.

The significant achievement of Affinity Echo is Eric’s talent in textile design. His fabrics are clean and precise. That play of weight and drape is evident with the white zip-front shirt and those precisely tailored trousers, which look like they were cut from medium-weight crepe or a knit with a bit of ponte structure, that has just enough body to hold a linear shape but is also soft enough to allow for some movement.

The textiles of Eric’s constructions are further amplified by his choices of trimming: the gold zip, which dashes down the front of the white jacket, is not in the least bit toned down; instead, it makes a bold but by no means flashy statement, simply giving an updated edge to the entire ensemble.

In terms of technical skill, Eric built every piece with meticulous precision. The measurement placement across each clothing piece demonstrates his understanding of different body shapes, ranging from the wide tunics and agbada that flow seamlessly with extended openings in the sleeves, accommodating the volume of the body, to the slim-fit suits with narrowed shoulders, high armholes, and tapering pants.

The design and stitching, along with the basic satisfaction they bring, are tasteful: seams are clean, topstitched, and underpanelled on stress areas (underarm and zip plackets), and seam allowances are well-controlled.

The integral construction, evident in the clean embroidery and top pattern making, makes it apparent that Eric does not take shortcuts.

On the other hand, he should have experimented with very advanced jacquard materials or 3D-knit textile production, incorporating various degrees of simplification to minimise leftovers.

However, his designs support Green October’s goal of inclusion for people with disabilities. They not only fit thematically but also illustrate sophisticated skill in creating fashionable, functional, adaptive wear.

What Eric Akinnaso has shown with Affinity Echo is that fashion can be beautiful, mindful, and inclusive – all at once.