By Yemisi Suleiman

Eric Akinnaso, the creative director of Motifs by Eric, has consistently demonstrated a sharp eye for illustration and garment construction. His latest collection, titled Colour Discussions, is a study of visual storytelling through fabric manipulation and illustrative detailing.

The collection makes a serious attempt at balancing traditional African designs with the modern style of men’s fashion tailoring. In line with his brand’s ethos, the designs of this collection have bold motifs and make use of abstract art patterns, and this makes them pieces that are both culturally grounded and fashion-forward.

Each piece in this collection exhibits Eric’s signature approach to menswear – fluid, artistic, and easy to wear.

However, while the intent is commendable, execution presents areas for both praise and critical discussions.

One of the intriguing pieces in this collection is the crisp white tunic with a mandarin collar, designed with a striking vertical applique of golden geometric patterns running from the shoulder down the hem.

This applique acts as the focal point of the garment’s design and adds depth to a seemingly minimal design. The overall length of the tunic appears to be measured appropriately because there is no excess fabric pooling at the hem.

Also, the shoulder-to-sleeve ratio is proportionate, though a closer inspection of sleeve width suggests a slight deviation that could impact fit for broad-shouldered individuals.

The integration of the patterned applique onto the base fabric could have been more seamless, which causes the attached applique design to lift at some points instead of draping easily but the stitching along this applique is neat.

Other pieces in the collection include the flowing kaftan. The proportions of the attire make it voluminous. For individuals who prefer a more structured outfit, the shoulder drop and generously cut V-neckline might pose fit challenges for them. The seams are well-executed, though the absence of reinforcement in high-stress areas (such as the underarm junction) raises concerns about long-term wear. The neckline finish is clean but lacks topstitching reinforcement that could improve durability.

This outfit is designed for comfort, and so offers excellent ease of movement. The symbolic tree illustration across the torso exemplifies Eric’s artistic expression techniques in his designs.

The Colour Discussions collection fits well within the modern consumer’s demand for artistic, cultural, and comfortable fashion. From a commercial perspective, the kaftan may find a niche in high-fashion artistic spaces rather than mainstream menswear, while the tunic has the potential for broader appeal.

This collection adds depth to Eric Akinnaso’s portfolio, showcasing his flair for artistic storytelling in fashion. A little more work on balancing the concept of the designs and the construction quality will be the next step in Motifs by Eric’s evolution.