Lagos-based fashion designer, Olufunke Adepju’s story started from an excellent eye for detail that allowed her to enhance the clothing of her university friends and family. Old t-shirts and dresses that needed a new breath of life would be handed off to Olufunke, who would go on to revive garments by embellishing them with beads and other intricate design work. This sparked a new passion in her – one she could not let go of upon graduating from the Igbinedion University.

It wasn’t until a friend offered her a slot at a local networking event, that Olufunke had the chance to present her unique fashion designs to the public. Needless to say, the response was fantastic and Olufunke soon found herself working on new commissions and orders. This incredible feedback inspired her to establish her own brand, Funke Adepoju, which launched in 2008 and is growing stronger by the year. By 2009, the brand went on to win the City People Best Designer of the Year award.

Funke Adepoju’s designs are infused with the “Phunke Afrique” aesthetic, one that merges African textiles, patterns and embellishments with European flair, as is evident in her latest collection named after the Spanish actress and singer, Lola Flores. With figure-hugging, flowing cuts reminiscent of the flamenco dresses traditional to Spain and intricate details and warm colours honouring the tones of the African continent, Adepoju’s latest collection is a celebration of cosmopolitan femininity.

The “Phunk Afrique” look mixes edge with glamour, allowing women to go through their days and special nights with an air of confidence, elegance and empowerment. If you’re looking for a new style to enter a new chapter in your life – this is it.