By Emmanuel Ukudolo I Thursday, October 30, 2025
VICTORIA ISLAND, LAGOS – The energy of Lagos is electric, and for two days in November, its heart beats to the rhythm of high fashion.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Victoria Island’s Plot 1 Water Corporation Drive, the GTCO Fashion Weekend (November 8–9) is no longer just an industry event—it is the nexus where global luxury converges with the unstoppable creative force of African design.
This year’s lineup features a constellation of talent, each bringing a unique philosophy and history that proves fashion is, at its core, human story-telling.
Imane Ayissi: The High Priest of Heritage
Few designers embody the bridge between continents quite like Imane Ayissi. The Cameroonian-born couturier, who now calls Paris home, possesses a narrative defined by grace and persistence.
Starting his career not on the runway, but on the stage as a dancer with the Ballet National du Cameroun, Ayissi’s initial discipline laid the foundation for his meticulous approach to form and movement in clothing. His journey continued as a model for prestigious houses like Dior and Givenchy before he stepped into the role of designer.
Ayissi is a celebrated advocate of ethical “slow fashion.”
His creations are a profound dialogue between Parisian haute couture techniques and revered African textiles—Kenté, Bogolan, and Faso Dan Fani. By merging these heritage fabrics with modern silhouettes, Imane Ayissi doesn’t just design clothes; he elevates cultural pride into a global, refined art form, offering a powerful statement on sustainability and the preservation of traditional artistry.
Tia Adeola: The Dorm Room Disruptor
At just 30, Tia Adeola has already redefined what it means to be a luxury designer in the modern age.
Nigerian-born and based, Tia launched her eponymous brand in 2016 from her New York dorm room. Her rapid ascent has been nothing short of meteoric, quickly earning her a spot on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list and acclaim from every major fashion publication.
Adeola’s aesthetic is instantly recognizable: sumptuous fabrics, dramatic ruffles, and silhouettes that celebrate the female form with fearless glamour.
Her designs have graced figures like Gigi Hadid, SZA, and Dua Lipa, solidifying her status as a favorite among the industry’s vanguard. After a standout NYFW debut, Tia’s return to Nigeria to unveil her Resort collection, a powerful full-circle moment, cementing her mission to champion and celebrate Black beauty and global elegance through her work.
The BAM Collective: The Bold, Conscious Vision
Hailing from South Africa, The BAM Collective, founded by Jacques Bam, injects a bold, spirited, and essential inclusivity into the luxury market.
A LISOF graduate, Jacques launched the brand in 2019, quickly gaining recognition for its vibrant prints, strong silhouettes, and eco-conscious philosophy.
The BAM Collective is celebrated for its fearless aesthetic, having showcased collections across the globe, from Milan to Dubai. Their philosophy goes beyond just clothes; it’s about a commitment to ethical production and individuality.
As the winner of the Africa Fashion Up award in 2022 and the Most Stylish Brand at the SA Style Awards 2024, Jacques Bam represents the dynamic, future-forward voice of South African fashion.
Ted Gibson: The Maestro of Hollywood Hair
Moving from the runway to the masterclass stage, Ted Gibson brings the unparalleled glamour of Hollywood to Lagos.
Dubbed the “Hollywood Maestro,” Ted is an iconic celebrity makeup and hairstylist whose hands have shaped some of the most memorable looks on screen and on red carpets.
His presence at the GTCO Fashion Weekend, hosting a masterclass titled “Iconic Hair: The Hollywood Story,” is a vital moment for aspiring African beauty entrepreneurs.
Gibson’s expertise connects the global dots of the industry, offering a rare opportunity to learn the techniques that define international star quality.
The Global Moment
The convergence of these distinct voices—Ayissi’s deep-rooted heritage, Adeola’s disruptive luxury, The BAM Collective’s conscious boldness, and Gibson’s celebrity savoir-faire—is what makes the GTCO Fashion Weekend a truly international spectacle.
Held at the GT Centre, Plot 1, Water Corporation Drive, this event is more than just a showcase; it is a global movement celebrating the diversity, resilience, and sheer artistry of fashion.
