The first ever

#Gtbankfshnwknd debuts with a promise to 'promote enterprise' and that's exactly what you get when you step into the expansive venue of the fashion weekend that kicked off impressive.

Entering the venue, you are heralded by the walk-in stall where artisans are working on 'Adire' designs, - (tie and dye) indigo-dyed cloth made in southwestern Nigeria by the Yorubas, using a variety of resist-dyeing techniques to create beautiful patterns- already infused into the works of Maki Oh, Orange Culture, Tiffany Amber and more.

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Just beside the hall is the lush open lounge for guests to refresh and snack on finger foods and ice cream set at a corner by popular Lagos vendors. Outside felt like an open market for everything good; the modern African-ness of the venue comes appealing.

A venture into the main hall housing a parade of items from different brands lights up the venue which gives every brand a chance to show off offerings on sale; Ituen Basi's lush intricate detailed floor length dress on a mannequin immediately reminds you the hall is a mix of fashion and beauty display, all the way to the end of the hall where Hans & Rene nests just before the hall (another inside the other) where the masterclass sessions are held.

I went in and out at intervals to catch up with discussion; the hall was hot! (That might just be amplified by Sam Fine!). The FREE masterclasses had people in from different parts of the country and abroad with seasoned speakers taking people through different topics and lighthearted question and answer sessions.

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Hours after masterclasses wrapped, the runway show was announced. In between waiting, Weizdhurm Franklyn and Toju Foyeh had a presentation at a decorated spot within the hall. Starting just before half 7pm the team impressed everyone kicking off the show without keeping everyone waiting

There are unusual bits like people struggling for seats where they were promptly showed their places, VIP tags equalled the 7th/8th row, guests at the back seats were unnecessary noisy, some were commenting so loud it was almost unbearable and 'announcing' the designers (like MC-ing) just got on my nerves! Amongst other unusual bits but overall not bad.

Was the show a 100%? No! but for a first time outing it was a great attempt. Without mincing words, the show kicked off exciting and unbelievably good for a first time.