Elizabeth Falade: Redefining African Fashion for the Global Stage

One of Nigeria’s finest talents determined to redefine the fashion industry is Elizabeth Falade. Her drive to introduce new innovations into the industry is second to none. In this interview with Society Herald Fashion and Style Beat, she explains various ways practitioners can explore more opportunities, as well as how the Nigerian fashion industry compares with those in modern economies.

Enjoy the interview!

Q : What first drew you into fashion and visual arts?

A : I have always seen fashion as more than clothing. For me, it is storytelling, history, and identity woven together. Growing up in Nigeria, I was surrounded by rich cultural traditions, particularly in textiles like adire,2 and I became fascinated by how these fabrics carried meaning. That curiosity grew into a lifelong passion for using fashion as a way to connect past and present, tradition and innovation.

Q : Many people describe your work as being at the intersection of heritage and innovation. How do you achieve that balance?

A : It starts with respect. I deeply respect the cultural traditions that inform my work, and I never treat them as a backdrop or ornament. At the same time, I am curious about how those traditions can evolve. Innovation for me means finding ways to bring something ancient into a new context without losing its integrity. That is the balance I constantly work to strike.

Q : Your role in The Indigo Revolution at Lagos Fashion Week 2023 was widely recognized. Can you tell us about that experience?

A : The Indigo Revolution was an ambitious project by Adire & Co., and I was the lead visual artist and textile specialist. The challenge was to fuse ancient dyeing practices with modern sculptural silhouettes. My responsibility w bring those two worlds together. It was demanding, because hand-dyed fabrics are unpredictable, but it was also incredibly rewarding. Seeing the collection receive critical acclaim, both locally and internationally, confirmed that our traditions are not only relev02nt but also highly influential in global fashion.

Q : What did you personally take away from that project?

A : It reinforced the importance of collaboration. Fashion is ever a solo effort. I worked with an amazing team, and my role was to translate bold concepts into tangible garments. It taught me how vital problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork are in the creative process.

Q : Beyond technical expertise, what do you feel sets you apart as a designer?

A : I would say vision and discipline. Creativity on its own is not enough; it has to be combined with a strong work ethic and the ability to execute ideas with precision. I have always been committed to detail and to delivering work that reflects excellence.

Q : How do you view your role as a cultural ambassador?

A : I think designers are storytellers. Every garment tells a story about where it comes from, who made it, and what it represents. In that sense, I see myself as carrying Nigerian culture into global conversations. It is a responsibility I take seriously, because representation matters.

Q : What is your perspective on the future of African fashion globally?

A : I believe African fashion is not a niche; it is a vital part of global fashion. The richness of our textiles, the boldness of our silhouettes, the depth of our storytelling , and all of these elements resonate with international audiences.
The future lies in collaboration, innovation, and breaking the old boundaries of how African design is perceived.

Q : What inspires your design process on a daily basis?

A : Inspiration comes from everywhere – colours in nature, architectural forms, cultural rituals, or even music. But most of all, I am inspired by people, by the way identity is expressed through what we wear. That human element keeps my work alive.

Q : How do you define success for yourself?

A : For me, success is not just about acclaim or recognition. It is about impact. If my work inspires someone to reconnect with their heritage, or if it sparks a new way of thinking about fashion, then I consider that success.

Q : Finally, what advice would you give to young designers who want to follow in your footsteps?

A : Stay true to your vision, respect your roots, and never stop learning. Fashion is competitive, but originality and authenticity will always stand out. And remember that collaboration is key; no great collection is ever built alone.