Worn by names such as Ncuti Gatwa, Kelly Rowland, Lupita Nyongo and Dua Lipa, Orange Culture is known for its bold, androgynous clothing that can be worn by anyone. The brand's creator, Nigerian-born designer Adebayo Oke-Lawal, defines it as a movement as well as a clothing-line, using his pieces to confront hypermasculinity, injustice and suppressed expressions of Africanism.
With a strong commitment to community development, Orange Culture's materials are ethically sourced from Nigerian fabric makers, and pieces are crafted with great care and integrity by a team of rigorously trained local staff. Fabric sourcing is environmentally conscious, manufacturing procedures produce zero-to-little waste, and revamp programmes encourage customers to bring a garment back for updates.
Making its debut at the V&A, the collection showcased explored the battle for acceptance faced by migrants settling in a new country, and spoke to the journey of creating a version of home in a new destination whilst finding community. These designs explore nostalgia as a place of safety, inspired by the gardens of Oke-Lawal's childhood that gave him and his siblings a safe space to climb trees and play in nature.
I am super excited and thankful to God to be debuting this collection at the V&A, as the museum has been a huge part of our story over the last couple of years! This collection is inspired by the story of migration, and the good and the bad that comes with the journey of trying to create nostalgia or a piece of home in a new place. When I'm travelling, memories of the sun shining, the sound of the birds, the smell of grass, and the warmth of family remind me of home, no matter where I am!
