Fashion has always been a powerful medium for storytelling, and Zainab Kolawole, founder of Styledbyzk, is rewriting the narrative of African fashion with bold innovation and cultural pride. Since its inception in 2019, Styledbyzk has aimed to dismantle stereotypes, proving that African textiles like Ankara, Adire, and Aso Oke are not just for special occasions but versatile enough to grace everyday life and global runways alike.
Reshaping the narrative around African clothing
In 2019, Zainab Kolawole embarked on a journey to reshape the narrative around African clothing, launching her brand, Styledbyzk, with a vision that extended far beyond fabric and stitching. For Zainab, African fashion had long been confined to special occasions—vibrant but perceived as too formal for everyday wear. With Styledbyzk, she sought to challenge this notion, crafting designs that blend traditional African textiles with contemporary aesthetics, making them versatile, stylish, and accessible for any occasion.
“African fabrics like Ankara, Adire, and Aso Oke have a timeless beauty,” Zainab explains. “But I wanted to show they can be part of casual and formal settings without losing their essence. It’s about removing the limitations and embracing the versatility of our heritage.”
Now, with the launch of her latest collection, Forest Bloom, Zainab takes her vision a step further. Inspired by autumn’s beauty and cultural artistry, this collection reflects transformation, creativity, and the timeless elegance of African heritage. On January 25, 2025, Zainab debuted her designs in the UK, marking a major milestone and her growing global influence.
Set against the challenges of balancing tradition with contemporary design, Styledbyzk’s journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and a commitment to making African fashion a global statement of versatility and identity.
Explore the story behind Forest Bloom and how Styledbyzk is shaping a new era for African fashion—one design at a time.
Modernizing Tradition
Styledbyzk gained traction for blending traditional African fabrics with modern silhouettes, captivating a global audience with innovation. From Nigeria to Europe, Zainab’s designs celebrate culture, identity, and bold colours, drawing admiration for intricate patterns and significance.
“The global audience sees African fashion as a vibrant expression,” Zainab says. “For many, wearing African designs is a way to celebrate or connect with African heritage. That appreciation fuels my creativity.”
The Birth of Forest Bloom
Zainab’s upcoming collection, Forest Bloom, takes inspiration from the natural transformation of autumn trees. Rooted in the changing colours and textures of the season, the collection embodies creativity and evolution, blending earthy tones with bold, vibrant hues that capture the essence of nature’s palette.
“Autumn is a season of change and beauty,” Zainab reflects. “The colours of the leaves are a source of endless inspiration, and I wanted to channel that into designs that evoke creativity and self-expression.”
The collection also draws from the artistry of Nahem Shoa, whose exploration of Black identity and diversity serves as a cornerstone for Forest Bloom. “His work celebrates individuality and cultural pride, which aligns perfectly with my mission as a designer,” Zainab shares.
Crafting Through Challenges
While producing Forest Bloom in the UK, Zainab faced challenges, particularly in sourcing traditional African fabrics. Yet, these obstacles only fueled her resourcefulness. “In Nigeria, you can find everything you need within hours. Here, I had to be more inventive, working with limited options. It was a learning experience and my first solo collection, so I embraced it wholeheartedly.”
A Global Vision
As Styledbyzk continues to grow, Zainab’s vision remains ambitious. She hopes to explore the diverse cultures of Africa, incorporating elements from across the continent into her designs. “African culture is incredibly rich and multifaceted,” she says. “I’ve only scratched the surface, and I’m eager to create designs that resonate globally while staying true to African identity.”
Her designs have already graced the likes of Nigerian celebrities Toyin Abraham and Linda Osifo, showcasing Styledbyzk’s ability to balance high-profile styling with the brand’s distinct identity.
Styledbyzk’s Forest Bloom runway debut in the UK.
Debuting Forest Bloom
Set to debut at the Ferens Art Gallery in Hull, UK, the Forest Bloom runway showcase celebrates creativity, bold colours, and unique styles that merge tradition with contemporary design. For attendees, it will be a feast for the senses, highlighting the brand’s commitment to storytelling through fashion.
For Zainab, the journey of Styledbyzk is as much about legacy as it is about design. “I want Styledbyzk to be remembered for redefining African fashion, making it a global statement of culture, versatility, and timeless elegance,” she says.
Her advice to emerging designers? Focus on your passion and carve out a niche early on. “Building a distinct identity is challenging, but it’s what sets you apart and makes the journey worthwhile.”
As Styledbyzk prepares to unveil Forest Bloom and looks to the future, one thing is clear: Zainab Kolawole is not just designing clothes; she is crafting a narrative that celebrates African heritage, creativity, and the power of self-expression on a global stage.
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