The term eclectic is almost being overused in fashion – it is a simple word that derives from the desire to describe a wide range of geographical or chronological styles fused in one look. Duro Olowu is a designer whose stylistic choices embody the term eclectic and has drawn the interest of fashionistas such as Linda Evangelista, Michelle Obama and Uma Thurman. Duro Olowu was born in Lagos, Nigeria and was raised between both Nigeria and England. In his young age he developed an interest for fashion and was particularly inspired by the mix of color, print and texture worn by women in his surroundings. Following his father’s footsteps he initially became a lawyer, which he gave up to followed his aspiration of becoming a fashion designer.
His self-titled womenswear label made its debut on the British fashion scene in London in October of 2004 with a collection inspired by “love and joy”. Since then, Duro Olowu has continued to impress with vibrant colors and an eclectic blend of ethnic prints, 1970s and 1940s inspired silhouettes that have become a key part of the brand. A high-waisted bohemian dress in patchwork —today known as the “Duro”— became a cult item in 2005 after being discovered by American Vogue editor Sally Singer. The Duro was responsible for putting the brand on the map, but the creativity of the man behind the brand kept the interest high beyond that single item.
Duro Olowu has the skill and creative eye to use bold patterns and colors from his African background and mix them together with urban and modern twists. What all his collections also have in common is the celebration of strong femininity. The impact of the bold and strong patterns on soft feminine shapes and the layers of a frayed and feathered coat are all stand out pieces procuring “all eyes on me” attention. The eclectic in the work of Duro Olowu is far from being overused…it is one of a kind.
