This has constantly raised an eyebrow on questions on what is African fashion. This is because most Nigerian works are seemingly inspired by the western and European essence of fashion which suits their identity, environment and different seasons. Despite this, the rich complexity and mystification of Nigerian fashion are the backbone of the industry’s incurring universal rise.
In a bid to be true to self and promote the African/Nigerian fashion, some in the industry like Ituen Basi, have taken it upon themselves to promote $4.7billion Nigeria fashion industry and print by sticking to indigenous resources in terms of using Ankara and other resources made in Nigeria which spiked the Ankara boom and the craze of the multiplicity of crafting with Ankara.
We have seen Nigerian designers become audacious in taking bold steps to reflect the country in positive ways, showing off our culture and innovativeness. According to T. S. Eliot, “immature poets imitate, mature poets steal.” As a result, many have accused her and her counterparts of stealing or copying our Ankara. Yet turn a blind eye to Nigerian designers who use satin, organza, marble velvet that are well attributed as foreign?