Stitching Success:10 Years Of Wanni Fuga
A decade of empowering women.
Since its establishment in 2014, Wanni Fuga has become a prominent name in contemporary women’s fashion, blending minimalist designs with meticulous craftsmanship. Created by Nigerian designer Toluwani Wabara, the brand is known for its elegant and versatile collections that reflect modern sophistication without sacrificing quality. As Wanni Fuga continues to gain international acclaim, its dedication to empowering women through timeless pieces remains at its core.
In this exclusive interview, we delve into the journey of Wanni Fuga, uncovering the vision of its founder and designer, Toluwani Wabara, and discussing what lies ahead for this influential contemporary fashion label.
As you celebrate 10 years of Wanni Fuga, what are some of the most memorable milestones that have shaped the brand’s identity and success?
Every time someone wears a Wanni Fuga piece, it's a milestone for me — it means the vision is alive and well. But if I had to highlight a few of the most memorable moments that have truly shaped the brand’s journey, I’d say being featured by Vogue for the first time was an unforgettable honor. Hosting our first pop-ups in New York and Atlanta was another significant step in bringing Wanni Fuga directly to our international community. Lastly, purchasing and setting up our current office space has been a real turning point, giving us a home where creativity and growth continue to flourish.
Your designs are often praised for blending minimalism with luxury. How do you approach the creative process to ensure each piece feels timeless yet modern?
At Wanni Fuga, we’re dedicated to inspiring confidence in women through modern, thoughtfully designed clothing. Our approach to blending minimalism with luxury is rooted in creating pieces that are both timeless and contemporary. I focus on crafting versatile designs that feel effortlessly elegant while also empowering women to feel their best, no matter the occasion. Timelessness comes from clean lines and classic silhouettes, while modernity is reflected in our choice of fabrics, textures, and subtle details. By focusing on quality and craftsmanship, we ensure each piece offers lasting sophistication that transcends trends and becomes a staple in every wardrobe.
Wanni Fu ga has captivated audiences both locally and globally. How has your Nigerian heritage influenced your designs, and how do you tailor your collections for international markets?
My Nigerian heritage plays a huge role in shaping Wanni Fuga’s designs. Nigeria is rich in culture, color, and vibrancy, and that energy naturally finds its way into our pieces. I draw inspiration from the strength, resilience, and elegance of Nigerian women, incorporating bold silhouettes, rich textures, and intricate detailing that reflect our diverse heritage. For international markets, the essence of Wanni Fuga remains the same, but I focus on creating pieces that balance cultural authenticity with universal appeal, blending traditional influences with modern aesthetics. This allows us to stay true to our roots while offering versatile, sophisticated designs that can seamlessly fit into the wardrobe of any woman, no matter where she is in the world.
With Lagos Fashion Week on the horizon, can you give us a glimpse of what to expect from your upcoming collection and how it reflects the brand's 10-year journey?
Our upcoming collection is a heartfelt reflection of Wanni Fuga’s 10-year journey, inspired by the growth and transformation we’ve experienced as a brand. Each piece represents the stages of growth — from the initial spark of inspiration to the full bloom of creativity and craftsmanship. With vibrant colors and organic textures, the collection mirrors nature’s beauty and renewal. It’s a tribute to our customers, who have been the foundation of our success, celebrating the community we’ve built together with timeless yet modern designs that speak to both our past and future.
What advice would you give to emerging designers looking to build a lasting brand that merges craftsmanship with contemporary appeal?
My advice to emerging designers is to be resilient and stay true to your vision — go for what you want and don’t compromise on it. Building a lasting brand requires unwavering determination, but it’s also important to put God at the center of your plans and trust the process. Surround yourself with an active support system that can guide and encourage you along the way. Lastly, always aim for excellence in everything you do, from the craftsmanship of your designs to the way you run your business. It’s the combination of passion, faith, and dedication to quality that will set your brand apart.
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