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Welcome to a tussle time

Coco being interviewed by ASA Magazine.
Coco being interviewed by ASA Magazine.

In the heart of fashion’s ever-evolving narrative, the recent event hosted by 101Avenue in collaboration with ASA Magazine, by Yakubu Oghenenyerhovwo and Oghenero Yakubu, marked a significant milestone. This gathering wasn’t just a showcase; it was a celebration of the new “A Tussle Time” collection, a vivid portrayal of the spring/summer series from the creative minds at 101Avenue.

The air buzzed with anticipation as the designer, bolstered by his industry friends like Jandy from Bigtynsonly, Rico from Rebirthbyrico and Nigerian musician GOA, prepared to unveil his latest work. The presence of these renowned figures, among many others, added an extra layer of excitement to the event.

Rico on arrival at the event.
Rico on arrival at the event.

Among the notable attendees was Uncle Barden, the renowned pattern maker. His expertise, which has graced high-end brands, was evident in the meticulous designs of 101Avenue Spring/Summer collection. His contribution underlined the brands commitment to excellence and innovation.

What struck most about the event was the palpable celebration of diversity and expressive beauty. The guests, dressed in a mélange of local brands such as Rebirth by Rico and Bigtynsonly, alongside luxury giants like Gucci, Dior, and Valentino, embodied a fashion utopia where local and global aesthetics harmoniously intertwined.

Flowers and denim

The event commenced with Rey, ASA Magazine’s creative director, delivering an inspiring speech. His narrative of perseverance and camaraderie resonated deeply, echoing the underlying theme of the collection.

Rey, founder of ASA delivering his welcome speech.
Rey, founder of ASA delivering his welcome speech.

Before the runway spectacle, a symbolic gesture of laying roses along the runway while music filled the air brought a reflective hush over the crowd. This serene moment prefaced the dramatic reveal of “A Tussle Time.”

Laying out of roses before the start of the show
Laying out of roses before the start of the show

The collection itself was a testament to inventive design and craftsmanship. It featured denim with intricate floral cuts and prints, showcasing the versatility of a fabric often relegated to casual wear.

Denim on denim look by 101Avenue
Denim on denim look by 101Avenue

The jeans, beautifully fitted with wide legs and side zips, offered a fresh take on a classic. Double sets of pockets and unexpected ankle placements spoke of functionality meeting fashion.

Crisp tailoring on women's wear, patterns designed by Uncle Barden
Crisp tailoring on women’s wear, patterns designed by Uncle Barden

White fabric pieces, including crisp button shirts, were artfully mixed with the denim, creating a harmonious contrast. The iconic puffer jacket with an oversized hood was a standout, embodying both comfort and style.

The beautiful embroidery and floral details with the puffer jacket
The beautiful embroidery and floral details with the puffer jacket

Patchwork on denim and thematic clock embroidery across various pieces added layers of detail and storytelling to the collection. However, the showstopper was undoubtedly a light-washed jeans paired with a floral detail, a matching oversized hat, and a white vest shirt. This ensemble, in its simplicity and elegance, drew cheers from the audience and accolades during the interviews.

The look that had the crowd cheering, washed jeans with floral detailing, oversized hat and white vest.
The look that had the crowd cheering, washed jeans with floral detailing, oversized hat and white vest.

101 going home

For those inspired to experience this sartorial revolution firsthand, “A Tussle Time” is not just a fleeting runway memory. The collection finds a tangible home at the Lagos Street pop-up shop at 17 Bree Street, Cape Town, inviting fashion enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the world of 101Avenue.

Yakubu Oghenenyerhovwo at the end of his collection reveal.
Yakubu Oghenenyerhovwo at the end of his collection reveal.

In conclusion, the “A Tussle Time” collection by 101Avenue, was more than just a fashion show; it was a narrative of resilience, creativity, and the unifying power of fashion. It stands as a testament to the evolving language of style, where local and global, classic and contemporary, simplicity and extravagance coalesce to redefine the boundaries of fashion.

ASA 101 Avenue Fashion Show - Stevenson Gallery
The team behind the scenes after the show.