By Josephine Agbonkhese
Fashion has a way of reflecting the spirit of its time, and Babatunde Olaniwun’s The City Pulse Collection captures that essence with clarity and grace.
Released on 12 November 2024, the collection feels like a love letter to city life — the rush of movement, the subtle expressions of individuality, and the ever-changing rhythm of style.
Every garment feels deliberate, carrying a sense of confidence that comes not from extravagance but from restraint. Ponda’s Reality, through this release, reminds us that the strongest statements are often made quietly.
There is a groundedness in the way the collection presents itself. The black and white varsity jacket immediately catches attention with its contrasting sleeves and bold lettering. The design feels youthful but composed, giving off a sense of readiness. Paired with tailored black cargo trousers, it becomes an outfit that could easily be worn across different spaces — creative studios, fashion events, or casual city walks. It carries that rare balance between attitude and simplicity.
The soft grey puffer coat stands out for its texture and presence. The plush material has an understated luxury, and the large pockets and structured hood make it both practical and stylish. It feels like the kind of piece one wears through winter days without sacrificing elegance.
The tone of grey is perfect — deep enough to command attention, but muted enough to work with almost anything. It could be worn to a dinner on a cold evening, layered over a turtleneck and denim, or even as a statement coat for travel.
The brown leather varsity jacket introduces a warmth to the collection.
The craftsmanship is evident in every stitch, and the natural gloss of the material gives it a timeless appeal. Its soft lining and classic collar shape make it versatile enough for both men and women. It feels like the kind of jacket that gains more character with time, the sort of piece passed down with stories attached to it.
The red and white varsity combination is where the collection shows its most playful side. The red jacket, vibrant and bold, pairs seamlessly with the clean white sweatshirt underneath. The lettering across the sweatshirt is simple yet iconic, reminding you of what Ponda’s Reality stands for — authenticity and confidence.
The look has that perfect blend of street and sophistication, the kind that works anywhere from a laid-back day in town to an evening out with friends.
Completing the story are the brand’s hoodies and sweatshirts, designed with comfort at their core but never losing sight of detail. The grey hoodie feels calm and familiar, like an instant favourite. It’s the kind of piece that becomes part of daily life, adaptable and reassuring. The red sweatshirt, on the other hand, bursts with personality. It looks especially striking under natural light, the colour radiating warmth against denim or black trousers.
Babatunde Olaniwun has a gift for translating emotion into clothing. With The City Pulse Collection, he brings together simplicity, strength, and movement in a way that feels effortless. Every piece speaks its own language, yet together they create harmony. This is not just fashion for show — it is fashion that reflects the pulse of a generation that knows exactly who they are and dresses like it.