By Omolara Akintoye
The 5th edition of the Dawalk Fashion Show was held on October 20th, 2024 was nothing short of a spectacle, blending innovation and cultural expression under the theme Fashion and Fantasy.
This runway event brought together some of the creative minds in fashion, and among the standout presentations of the night was the unveiling of Softtemmy Stitches’ Urban Prism collection, a vibrant showcase of contemporary African fashion meticulously curated by Odutoyinbo Waliyat Temitope.
With a keen eye for detail and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, Temitope crafted this collection using cotton, Ankara, satin, and patterned cotton, reinforcing her brand’s ethos of eco-conscious elegance.
The Urban Prism collection is more than just fashion—it is a reflection of modernity fused with tradition. The name itself evokes an interplay of colors, textures, and silhouettes, symbolizing the diverse expressions of urban fashion.
The collection features a stylish women’s Bubu gown, structured men’s kaftans, and striking two-piece ensembles, each piece thoughtfully designed to balance comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
The Dawalk Fashion Show provided the perfect stage for Temitope’s creations to shine. The runway, illuminated by the beautiful lighting of chandeliers, music, and ambiance, all work together to create a spectacle that feels like a celebration of African fashion, culture, and innovation as the models walked the runway with confidence, gracefully showcasing the fluid silhouettes and bold structures that define Urban Prism.
Every stride was a statement, every ensemble a story woven from African heritage and contemporary aesthetics.
One of the most striking pieces from the collection was a flowing gown in vibrant turquoise with bold red accents, exuding both regality and effortless grace. The textured fabric and intricate detailing made it a statement piece, embodying the spirit of African fashion—bold, expressive, and timeless. Similarly, the men’s tailored plaid outfit features a structured short-sleeved tunic and fitted trousers which redefined sophisticated masculinity.
The deep green and navy hues, paired with sharp tailoring, showcased the designer’s ability to create pieces that feel both timeless and contemporary. It was a look that captured the essence of the modern African man—refined, stylish, and deeply rooted in his culture.
The audience, a mix of fashion enthusiasts, industry insiders, and cultural taste makers, watched in awe as each model presented Softtemmy Stitches’ curated looks. The brand’s ability to merge vibrant African prints with structured tailoring and flowing silhouettes made it one of the most memorable showcases of the night.
Equally captivating is the flowing navy-blue kaftan with matching trousers, which is a testament to the designer’s ability to create sophisticated yet effortlessly wearable pieces. The clean lines and relaxed draping exude a quiet luxury, aligning with the collection’s urban-chic essence.
Temitope’s approach to design is deeply rooted in storytelling. She doesn’t just create clothes; she curates experiences. Her attention to fabric choices, fit, and finishing is evident in each look, proving her expertise in merging traditional craftsmanship with modern trends. Her decision to incorporate sustainable materials further underscores her commitment to ethical fashion, making Urban Prism not only stylish but also responsible.
Softtemmy Stitches, under Temitope’s creative direction, continues to redefine African fashion with its refined take on contemporary style. With Urban Prism, she has demonstrated that fashion can be both sustainable and luxurious, both rooted in heritage and forward-thinking.
As the applause echoed through the fashion hall, it became clear that Temitope’s artistry had struck a chord with the audience, cementing her status as a designer to watch in the evolving landscape of African fashion using this collection as a prove that her designs are as bold and dynamic as the cityscapes that inspire them.
