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2020 has definitely been Emmy Kasbit’s year – the fashion brand released its latest Spring/Summer 2021 (SS21) collections tagged “Unity Redefined” around the late quarter of the year. The collection “Unity Redefined” was exhibited during the Milan Fashion Week, a clothing trade show held annually in Italy that’s Autumn/Winter and Spring/Summer.

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According to the brand, the collection embraces the spirit of unity and perseverance. The line-up consists of revamped silhouettes from the brands past seasons and collections – tribute to reawaken the true essence of Joy.

Anyone who knows Emmanuel Okoro, the creative director of Emmy Kasbit knows that his work is richly influenced by the rich cultural heritage of his motherland, Nigeria. His SS21 collection was no different. Using the Akwete fasbric – a traditionally woven fabric, the brand focused on men and womenswear with impressive delicacy and skill.

The collection contains a line up of suits and dresses but was makes it unique is the use Nsibidi symbols on each fabric.

Nsibidi is a system of symbols indigenous to what is now southeastern Nigeria that are apparently pictograms, though there have been suggestions that some are logograms or syllabograms. The system of symbols is estimated to have been around from 400 to 1400 CE, as the earlier forms of the symbols appeared on excavated pottery, ceramic stools and headrests from the Calabar region.

Infusing the Unity symbol (Nsibidi) with powerful colors: burgundry winery, classic blue and cream, Emmanuel Okeke was able to create authentic and timeless pieces.

A double win for Emmy Kasbit, the “Unity Redefined” collection was unveiled at a private screening hosted by African Fashion Foundation at The Lotte, Accra on September 22, 2020 and also exhibited at the Milan Fashion Week. The brand was announced as one of two African brands selected as the winners of Italian Vogue’s Scouting For Africa initiative later on.

Vogue Talents is a scouting team that recognizes emerging African creatives and the initiative is supported by the African Fashion Foundation and Impact Fund for African creatives.