Introducing Wow Wow by Wunmi
Wow Wow by Wunmi has taken the International Fashion and Performance world by storm with the brand's unique combination of striking Adire patterns and prints. Creative director, Wunmi Olaiya works closely with textile artisans and tailors to create heirloom-quality pieces for men, women, and children that highlight the best of ancient west African printing techniques.
We’re excited to introduce Wow Wow by Wunmi, now available in store.
Photo: Ita Hozaife
Photo: CY Nakpodia
Ibiwunmi Omotayo Olaiya popularly known as Wunmi is \ a singer, songwriter, performer and fashion designer. Born in London, and raised in Lagos, Nigeria. Wunmi is regularly commissioned to design costumes for the most influential choreographers and dance companies of our time, and was awarded a ‘Bessie’ (New York Dance and Performance Award) in 2000 for her work with both Ronald K. Brown and Marlies Yearby.
Wunmi was formally trained at the London College of Fashion, and was a partner in a number of small design companies before starting her own line, Wow Wow by Wunmi, in 2012.
The Collection
In 2012, Wunmi started the Brand called Wow Wow. Wowow refers to waaw in the Wolof language, meaning “yes-yes”. Additionally Wunmi expresses her desire for everyone to feel uniquely special, wowing everyone around them. The brand itself is a celebration of being different and not conforming. Finally, the name translates as the motto for the line “want it – own it – wear it, Wunmi Olaiya Wear.”
The clothes are primarily made in Nigeria, where she works closely with textile artisans and tailors to create timeless pieces for men, women, and children, providing mentorship, jobs, and new markets for the community.
Empowering women and celebrating the individual are key components of the brand. Wunmi notes: “ I want women to express their individuality in Wow Wow. … Owning a piece of Wow shares that vibrancy. It’s your version of your personal ‘wow.’ Wow Wow is primarily crafted in Nigeria, Togo, where Wunmi works closely with textile artisans and a small group of tailors, to create her exclusive line of heirloom quality, one of a kind pieces for Men, Women, and Children.
Photo: CY Nakpodia