All About British Vogue’s Cover Star Tolu Coker: Fashion’s Rising Star
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- December 20, 2023
In the dynamic world of fashion, certain designers possess the extraordinary ability to capture cultural narratives through their creations. Tolu Coker, a 27-year-old British-Nigerian designer, is one such talent who is swiftly ascending as a luminary in the fashion industry. Her recent debut at London Fashion Week, backed by the British Fashion Council’s NewGen programme, has placed her in the spotlight as a promising new star.
Tolu Coker, a 27-year-old British-Nigerian designer, is one such talent who is swiftly ascending as a luminary in the fashion industry.
Coker’s journey in fashion began with her graduation from Central Saint Martins, where she specialized in fashion design and textile print. She launched her eponymous label in 2018, showcasing a rich tapestry of Yoruba culture. Her designs are a celebration of her heritage, beautifully infusing elements of Yoruba spirituality with Western influences.
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Her latest collection, ‘Irapada,’ meaning ‘redemption’ in Yoruba, is a perfect marriage of these two worlds. It features innovative denim jacquards and garments that pay homage to Nigeria’s Aladura churches and traditional Yoruba prints. Coker’s work reflects a deep connection to her roots, bringing a fresh perspective to the fashion industry.
Coker’s designs extend beyond mere clothing; they are a narrative of the complexities of Diasporic Black Identity. Her collections are known for their illustrative, dynamic, and thought-provoking nature, often flirting with the boundaries of contemporary art and fashion. Her commitment to sustainability is evident in her use of deadstock fabrics and upcycled materials, primarily produced in London and other UK factories.
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Apart from her design prowess, Coker’s illustrations, documentaries, and fashion films have been commissioned by prominent brands and media outlets, including Vogue Italia, Diesel, and Vice Media. Her global acclaim was further cemented with multiple awards at the ITS 2018, including The Diesel Award and The Vogue Talents Award.
Beyond fashion, Coker is passionate about using her platform for social change. She has been involved in projects empowering communities, such as collaborating with Vlisco for The City of Joy in the Democratic Republic of Congo, designing in honor of women survivors of war violence.
Coker’s impact on the fashion industry is undeniable. Recognized as one of Teen Vogue’s ‘Generation Next’ and nominated as ‘Woman of The Year 2020,’ as well as featuring on the latest cover of British Vogue for her championship of sustainability, she continues to use her platform to highlight global issues.
Coker is diligently building her brand, TOLU COKER, and redefining fashion with her unique blend of cultural heritage, contemporary design, and social consciousness.
Ntianu Obiora is a versatile creative professional with over a decade of experience in publishing, marketing, communications, and digital strategy. She is the Online Editor at THEWILL DOWNTOWN
