Adebayo Oke-Lawal

Adebayo Oke-Lawal is a Nigerian fashion designer and the creative director of the contemporary fashion brand Orange Culture. He is recognized as a leading voice in Nigerian and African fashion, known for his unique approach to menswear that challenges traditional notions of masculinity.Early Life and Education Adebayo Oke-Lawal was born in Lagos, Nigeria. He developed an early passion for design, beginning to sketch and conceptualize fashion pieces from a young age. His formal education in fashion began at the Arts University Bournemouth in the United Kingdom, where he focused on menswear design.Career Progression Oke-Lawal founded Orange Culture in 2011, establishing it as a movement rather than solely a clothing line. The brand quickly gained international attention for its androgynous aesthetic and use of vibrant colors, materials, and prints, often challenging Nigeria's hyper-masculine societal norms. His work is known for interrogating the cues that masculine dress broadcasts to society, using fashion as a platform to combat injustice and suppressed expressions of Africanism. He started his career at a young age, working as a junior editor and styling assistant at a fashion publication, which provided him with valuable exposure to the industry before launching his brand.Major Achievements and Notable Works Orange Culture, under Oke-Lawal's direction, has achieved numerous milestones, placing Nigerian fashion on the global map. * **International Recognition:** The brand has showcased collections at prestigious international events, including London Fashion Week Men's, Pitti Uomo in Florence, Italy, and Lagos Fashion Week. * **LVMH Prize:** Oke-Lawal was the first Nigerian-based designer to be nominated for the LVMH Prize for Young Fashion Designers in 2014, earning global industry recognition. * **Collaborations:** Orange Culture has engaged in notable collaborations, including a collection with the global apparel company, Wati.The brand is often cited for pioneering the push toward more fluid and expressive designs in the African menswear sector, offering pieces that transcend gender boundaries.Current Status Adebayo Oke-Lawal continues to operate Orange Culture from Lagos, Nigeria. The brand maintains a commitment to ethical production, focusing on sustainability and supporting local artisans. He remains an influential figure and advocate for creative expression, using his platform to address social issues, particularly those surrounding identity and gender in Africa.