Nigerian Childhood Nostalgia Influences SEMANDE Spring/Summer 2020 Collection

Nigerian UK-based label, SEMANDE draws inspiration from early 80’s Nigerian childhood nostalgia for its SS 2020 collection themed, ‘LIKE PLAY, LIKE PLAY.”

The collection which boasts playful and vibrant pieces explores the nostalgic childhood SSSSexperience of the designer, Yemisi Olaiya.

According to her, “It is influenced by African childhood toys, a child’s ability to explore and create a world and experience from nothingness, insignificant and worthless everyday items ranging from empty detergent packaging, empty Tomato Puree cans to cubed sugar packaging and creating role-play with the famous African barbie (The Clonette doll).”

It also employs the elegance of the 1980’s fashion and her signature traditional western Nigerian silhouettes to create a story of two worlds that she was raised in.

The Macramé embellishments on the garments were in collaboration with Textile Artist Alice Hume from Hotwalls Studios. The campaign photoshoot also features their handwoven clutch bags and knotted earrings.