Rhiannon D’Averc – 27th October 2024
Read the full version of this post in Issue 96
Fashion Week Yorkshire 2024 was a vibrant celebration of diversity, creativity, and inclusivity. This year’s showcase not only spotlighted international designers but also placed an emphasis on body positivity, ensuring that fashion was accessible and empowering for all. Four standout designers—Ololade Atelier, Ayah, Aphia Himhanuel, and Hassana Duada—brought their unique visions to the runway, each offering something extraordinary for the modern fashion connoisseur. Let’s take a closer look at the collections that captivated the audience.
OLOLADE ATELIER: A RIOT OF COLOR AND CELEBRATION
Ololade Atelier, true to form, brought an electric sense of celebration to the runway. Known for vibrant, occasion-ready dresses, this collection was unapologetically bold, with every look designed to stand out in the crowd—preferably a crowd that loves to dance. From dazzling sequins to voluminous puff
sleeves, Ololade Atelier delivered with a palette that ranged from fiery reds to sultry blacks, accented by shimmering textures that caught the spotlight.
One can’t help but marvel at the playful juxtaposition of drama and elegance. The structured shoulders on a glistening red mini-dress with fringe added movement, turning every strut into a performance, while the fitted pink gown with exaggerated sleeves commanded attention in a quieter, more regal way. Every piece seemed to whisper: “Why blend in when you can sparkle?”
However, for all the vivacity, there was a certain predictability in some of the designs. While the signature sparkle and form fitting silhouettes are undeniably Ololade’s strength, venturing into more unconventional cuts or fabric combinations might have pushed the collection further. Still, for anyone seeking to ake an entrance—and a lasting impression—Ololade Atelier is
where the party starts and never ends.
AYAH: TRADITION MEETS BOLD MODERNITY IN MENSWEAR
Ayah’s menswear collection was a masterclass in combining cultural heritage with contemporary tailoring. This season, the brand drew on traditional Nigerian influences, fusing them with sleek, modern designs. The result was a lineup of suits that felt grounded in history but styled for the future.
Ayah played with both texture and shine, with standout pieces like the ‘Black Guy Glitters’ suit—a black two-piece with intricate glitter detail on the blazer, perfect for a man who’s unafraid to take center stage. Similarly, the ‘Blue Suit Glitters’
ensemble, in a crisp, icy blue, stood out for its refreshing approach to formal wear, injecting vibrancy into traditional tailoring. For those seeking something more subtle, the checkered suit and the warm, earthy brown-patterned look balanced tradition with versatility, ideal for a formal event or an upscale evening out.
What’s clever about Ayah’s designs is their ability to speak to a variety of men—whether you’re looking for something daring or more understated. While some might argue that the collection sticks close to classic silhouettes, Ayah ensures that
every piece, with its careful details and expert craftsmanship, feels special. It’s not just about wearing a suit; it’s about wearing a story.
APHIA HIMHANUEL: A FOOTWEAR REVOLUTION
Aphia Himhanuel didn’t come to play with its men’s footwear collection—it came to dominate. Each pair of shoes felt like a deliberate statement, crafted with impeccable attention to detail.
From leather loafers to ankle boots, this collection was all about
sophistication with an edge. The shoes were rich in texture, from smooth, polished leather to more tactile materials like suede and crocodile leather accents. There’s a meticulousness to the collection that makes each piece feel hand-made, almost bespoke, yet grounded in the accessibility of everyday wear. Whether paired with a suit or something more casual, these shoes are the kind that can effortlessly transition across various occasions.
A standout was the chocolate brown loafer with gold detailing, embodying a perfect fusion of comfort and style. The slight heel and padded soles added practicality, but the sharp silhouette kept it undeniably luxurious. The collection, while polished, might have benefited from a few more daring designs or a bolder color palette. But, in a world where trends come and go, Aphia Himhanuel’s timeless approach ensures that these shoes will never go out of style.
HASSANA DUADA: ARCHITECTURAL PRECISION IN OCCASION WEAR
Hassana Duada’s collection was the epitome of refined sophistication, focusing on structured lines, clean cuts, and a minimalist palette. Each piece felt like it was crafted for modern-day royalty, with a distinct focus on form and function.
Duada’s ability to take traditionally rigid silhouettes and make them wearable is nothing short of genius. This season’s collection was dominated by neutral tones—
white, cream, and black—which let the craftsmanship speak louder than any bold print or color could. From sharply tailored blazers with exaggerated lapels to fitted dresses with dramatic capes, Duada played with proportion and balance in a way that felt both effortless and deliberate. A standout look was the white suit with a cinched waist and cape-style sleeves, a perfect balance of power dressing and femininity.
The collection felt almost architectural in its precision—each pleat, seam, and fold contributed to the overall aesthetic of power and grace. Duada’s pieces are not for the faint-hearted; they’re for the woman who walks into a room knowing she’s already won. While some may crave a bit more experimentation in texture or color, there’s a beauty in the restraint Duada shows. Her designs make a statement by whispering rather than shouting.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Fashion Week Yorkshire 2024 highlighted the immense diversity in contemporary fashion. From Ololade Atelier’s dazzling dresses to Ayah’s fusion of heritage and modernity in menswear, each designer brought something unique to the table. Aphia Himhanuel showed us that luxury footwear can be both functional and fashionable, while Hassana Duada’s precision-tailored occasion wear
redefined modern elegance.
These collections were united by one theme: empowerment. Whether through the bold colors of Ololade, the cultural richness of Ayah, the craftsmanship of Aphia, or the structural mastery of Hassana, each designer presented pieces that make their wearers feel seen, confident, and unstoppable. Fashion Week Yorkshire continues to champion not only diverse body types but also diverse
design voices, setting the stage for future talent to shine.
