Dumebi Iyamah made history at the 2015 Lagos Fashion and Design Week when she became the first swimwear brand to debut at the showcase. And what a collection it was. Inspired by ancient Egyptology with recollections of hieroglyphs and pyramids, the collection featured examples of signature Andreah Iyamah quirks; bright colours, cut-outs that flatter the figure and neon prints.
The Andreah Iyamah swimwear brand is a runaway success, gaining popularity almost immediately after it was launched in 2013 as a sister brand to the Andreah Iyamah bespoke and Ready to Wear Lines. By 2014 it had become the brand that Dumebi Iyamah was known for. Today, the brand is stocked in five countries and is a firm favourite of many celebrities including Zainab Balogun and Bonang Matheba.
Elements of Egypt pop up perpetually in the Spring 16 collection; the feather and geometric prints that dominate the collection reference hieroglyphic silhouettes of winged sphinxes, scarabs and the ‘feather of truth’. These are also expressed in the cuts- draped sheer capes and tunics and gold piping on the hems of the bikini bottoms and tops. Oriental accessories are added to help sell the vibe.
The collection is cohesive and the models do it incredible justice as the pieces flatter their different body shapes. Iyamah defies the stereotype of the unwelcome prophet, finally gaining the adulation of her home city with work that is innovative but wearable.
These are our favourite looks from the showcase.
Myever Akinyele’s walk is the stuff of dreams in this A.I two piece.
Olamide Ogundele’s strut is fierce but measured in this gold piped blue two piece.
This gold piped blue two piece with cut out detailing on the bust cups is snug on Olamide Ogundele.
The sheer panels on this print two piece are perfect contrasts against the model’s dark chocolate skin
This high waisted one piece with torso cut outs and a lattice strapped bra is a structural and aesthetic delight on Bolajo Fawehinmi.
This glorious long sleeved print crop with bust cut outs that needs to be seen in stop motion to be truly appreciated. It is to Uju Marshal’s credit that this doesn’t overpower her person.
Tamar Awobutu wears this print two piece and chiffon kimono ensemble so effortlessly she looks like she walked right off a Nile barge. Stunning.
And of course, Somkele closing out the show in a teal cape and Baywatch style one piece with a plunge neckline. Only for the most daring.
This summer will belong to Andreah Iyamah, no doubt about it.