LANRE DA SILVA AJAYI celebrated a remarkable milestone in Lagos on November 16th, marking 20 years of redefining African fashion. The anniversary showcase was emotional, visually striking, and deeply memorable. It stood as a tribute to a visionary designer who has shaped the fashion landscape with elegance, resilience, and artistic brilliance.
A LEGACY BUILT OVER TWO DECADES
Lanre Da Silva Ajayi’s journey began in 2005, when she launched her eponymous brand with bold creativity and a strong African point of view. Since then, she has grown into one of Nigeria’s most influential designers. She is widely known for her masterful use of lace, embroidery, texture, and couture-level craftsmanship.
Over the years, her work has appeared in global fashion capitals and on influential women around the world. It has also been featured in major international publications, reinforcing her place in African luxury fashion.
From London Fashion Week to Johannesburg runways, and from museum exhibitions to prestigious collaborations, LDA has consistently pushed creative boundaries. She has mentored emerging designers and told authentic African stories through every collection.
Therefore, this 20th anniversary showcase was not just about time. It was about impact, excellence, and continuous evolution.
A NIGHT OF MUSIC, EMOTION & FASHION
The celebration opened with a soulful performance by Waje, whose voice immediately set an elegant, emotional tone. As the show progressed, the energy in the room rose steadily.
Then Tiwa Savage closed the night with a captivating performance, taking the stage as the final looks of the Anniversary Collection floated down the runway.
When Lanre Da Silva Ajayi stepped out for her bow, the hall erupted. The standing ovation was electric and heartfelt. It was a powerful moment of recognition for two decades of dedication and creativity.
THE SSS26 “ANNIVERSARY COLLECTION”: A TRIBUTE TO HER DNA
The debut of the SSS26 Anniversary Collection formed the core of the evening. The collection paid tribute to LDA’s design DNA in a modern yet timeless way.
It featured:
- Intricate detailing and embellishments
- Regal, structured silhouettes
- Rich fabrics and textures
- Soft yet powerful femininity
The runway came alive with a star-studded cast including Dabota Lawson, Idia Aisen, Nancy Isime, Sabrina, Aduke Shittabay, and Beauty Tukura. Each woman brought a unique presence, adding glamour, poise, and emotion to the collection.
As a result, every look felt like a chapter in a larger story of craft, heritage, and evolution.
A DOCUMENTARY THAT MOVED THE ROOM
Another key highlight of the night was the screening of LDA’s anniversary documentary. The film offered a sincere and powerful reflection on her career.
It explored her beginnings, the obstacles she faced, and the evolution of her brand. It also showed her discipline, her faith in her vision, and her long-term commitment to excellence.
The documentary reminded the audience that behind every dress, silhouette, and runway moment lies years of hard work. It also reinforced the idea that fashion, for LDA, is a form of storytelling and cultural documentation.
HONORING THE NEXT GENERATION OF DESIGNERS
Importantly, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi used her milestone night to shine a light on rising talent. She chose to honor designers who represent the future of African fashion:
- Bisoye Olorunmbe (Hue_rtw)
- Ugochukwu Onukwubiri (14zeroseven)
- Garcelle Williams (Morayoasoasiko)
Each designer presented fresh and modern interpretations of African style. They also highlighted sustainability, innovation, and craftsmanship in their work.
Consequently, their showcases drew admiration and loud applause. The gesture reinforced LDA’s belief that true legacy includes lifting others and opening doors.
AN EVENING OF STAR POWER & INDUSTRY UNITY
Produced by Elizabeth Elohor of Beth Model Management, the 20th anniversary showcase drew a powerful mix of leaders, creatives, and cultural tastemakers. The guest list reflected the respect and admiration LDA commands across industries.
Notable attendees included Don Jazzy, Toke Makinwa, Mercy Eke, Omowunmi Dada, Chioma Good Hair, Iyabo Ojo, Osas Ighodaro, and many more. Their presence signaled unity within the creative community. It also showed how fashion, music, film, and media intersect around shared culture.
WORDS FROM THE ICON
Reflecting on her 20-year journey, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi shared:
“Fashion has always been my way of documenting our stories, who we are, where we come from, and the possibilities ahead. These 20 years have been a journey of discipline, evolution, and grace. Tonight is not just about the past, but about the future we’re creating.”
She also expressed deep gratitude to her clients, supporters, partners, team, and the media. Their trust and dedication have helped carry her work across borders and across generations.
PARTNERS WHO MADE THE CELEBRATION POSSIBLE
A showcase of this scale and quality required strong support. The 20th anniversary celebration was proudly backed by:
- Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture
- Johnnie Walker Blue Label
- Bank of Industry
- Standard Chartered Bank
- Heineken
- Prive Events
These partnerships underscored the importance of the event and its cultural significance. They also highlighted the growing recognition of fashion as a key part of Nigeria’s creative economy.
TWENTY YEARS OF IMPACT & A FUTURE FULL OF POSSIBILITY
The LDA 20th Anniversary Showcase was more than a fashion event. It was a celebration of creativity, resilience, influence, and African luxury at its finest.
In addition, it reminded the industry of the power of consistent vision and storytelling. Lanre Da Silva Ajayi’s work continues to define what modern African luxury looks like, while inspiring younger designers to dream bigger.
As she steps into the next chapter, one thing is clear: her legacy is firmly established, yet her future remains full of possibility, innovation, and new stories waiting to be told.
FIND LANRE DA SILVA AJAYI
To explore LDA’s world of luxury African fashion or connect with the brand:
Email: lanredasilva7@gmail.com
Website: https://lanredasilvaajayi.com.ng/
Instagram: @lanredasilvaajayi
