Nigerian Designer Showcases ‘Afro-Lux’ on the World Fashion Stage

With its contemporary architecture highlighted by latticework inspired by traditional Yoruba textiles, Alara stands out as West Africa’s first fashion and design “concept store” in the lively city of Lagos, Nigeria.

Founded by Reni Folawiyo, Alara has now celebrated a decade of promoting what she refers to as “Afro-lux.” This concept store serves as a base for designs that merge tradition with modern aesthetics, aiming to elevate African fashion both locally and internationally.

Inside Alara, you’ll find a curated mix of clothing from high-end African designers alongside Western brands, as well as artistry and books. Folawiyo’s vision strives to place African design on par with established global names.

The unique lattice design on the store’s exterior pays homage to adire textiles, which hold cultural significance for the Yoruba people in southwestern Nigeria.

“Many beautiful creations from various parts of Africa weren’t receiving the recognition they deserved,” the 60-year-old shared in an interview, emphasizing her belief that these crafts and the artisans behind them hold significant value.

Music Stars as Style Ambassadors

Folawiyo highlighted that West African design is currently capturing attention, while she donned stylish pink-tinted sunglasses during her interview. In May, Nigerian music sensations Burna Boy, Tems, and Ayra Starr made headlines at New York’s Met Gala, dressed by the talented British-Ghanaian designer Ozwald Boateng.

However, she believes that simply walking the runway is not enough for African designers. “To truly support designers outside of Africa, collaborating with reputable institutions is crucial,” she noted, referring to her recent pop-up store at the Brooklyn Museum and a partnership with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

Drawing inspiration from her Yoruba heritage, characterized by vibrant textiles and elaborate ceremonies, Folawiyo also appreciates the “rugged” aesthetics of Senegal and the sophistication found in Ivory Coast.

For her, Alara represents “a celebration of Africa,” she remarked during the conversation.

Culture Through Cuisine

NOK, a restaurant located behind the boutique, is helmed by executive chef Pierre Thiam. This Senegalese chef has been pivotal in bringing African culinary traditions to the United States.

Although NOK maintains a high-end appeal, it offers more accessible prices compared to Alara’s luxury goods—a challenging balance in a country where wealth is often concentrated among a small elite amid a struggling middle class.

Within Alara’s minimalist venue featuring black walls and white concrete, a stunning green dress from Nigerian label Eki Kere is priced at 325,000 naira (around $210), while a table from Senegalese-Nigerian studio Salu Iwadi can cost up to tenfold that amount.

Folawiyo hails from Lagos’s affluent circles, as the spouse of businessman Tunde Folawiyo and the daughter of former attorney general Lateef Adegbite. However, she initially faced difficulties convincing others of her vision for African luxury. “My commitment and belief in my idea kept me driven,” she recounted.

Now firmly rooted in Nigeria, she organizes international fashion shows, recently participating in CARIFESTA XV in Barbados. Ultimately, she believes that the industry’s future success hinges on “passing knowledge to the next generation.” What are your thoughts on the evolution of African fashion?