Check out Meena's Igbo inspired 'Architectonic' collection

diipo adeusi

March 12, 2016 3:14 PM

Womenswear fashion brand, Meena has just unveiled it’s S/S ‘16 Igbo inspired ‘Architectonic’ collection and it’s nothing short of breath taking. Check out the structured print offerings.

Meena’s S/S ‘16 ‘Architectonic’ collection

In a collection that has been so delicately tailored to, it draws inspiration from the past (Nsibidi) and present, which is modern construction. Meena conveys true character and aesthetic through another mind-blowingly structured collection that salutes age old ‘Nsibidi’ script filled with symbolism and innuendos that are specific to Ibos.

This collection tells a story of patriotism and patience, which is evident in the brand’s use of ropes and crocheting. According to the designer, it is symbolic of “a bound effect of unity and peace amidst the challenges and insurgencies (in the Northern part of Nigeria) we are faced with as a nation”.

The brand went further to explain via their Instagram page that, “We drew inspiration from various sources for our Spring/Summer 2016 Collection. As our first venture into custom made prints, we were influenced by 'NSIBIDI'. Nsibidi is a pre-colonial symbolic means of communication among the Ibos, in the South Eastern part of Nigeria.

The symbols were arranged in clusters to tell a story of victory, resilience, love & hate, peace and unity of a Nigerian. Details are influenced by strips (ropes) to create a bound effect of unity and peace amidst the challenges and insurgences ( in the Northern part of Nigeria) we are faced with as a nation.

Further details are flap layerings of shapes - trapeziums, triangles, and rhombus. Hand embroidered Nsibidi symbols also run through the collection. Architectonic undertones which is our core is visible in origami details and sophisticated cuts.”

Take a look at a gallery of the collection above and let us know what you think.

Credits:

PHOTOGRAPHY: Lakin Ogunbanwo (@lakinogunbanwo)

ART DIRECTION: Lakin Ogunbanwo & Uju Offiah

Model: Aduke (@adukebey_) of@bethmodelafrica

MAKE UP: Stella ( @stellasaddiction )

HAIR: Bernard ( @bernardsmiless )

diipo adeusi