By Atlantic Reports

Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s influence beyond music took centre stage on Saturday as models showcased outfits inspired by the Afrobeat legend at the ‘Dress Fela’ fashion show in Lagos.

Held at Freedom Park in collaboration with DeLaChess Couture, the event explored connections between Fela’s distinctive style, Nigerian cultural identity and contemporary African fashion.

The show formed part of activities leading up to Felabration, the annual festival celebrating the musician’s life, music and legacy.

From Musical Influence to Fashion Expression

The runway presentations offered different interpretations of Fela-inspired fashion, using clothing to explore individuality and African heritage.

For attendees, the appeal lay in how designers translated a familiar cultural influence into contemporary styles.

Adesewa Bakare described the show as a platform for celebrating Fela through fashion and personal expression.

“Every outfit tells a story, and I love how the designers used fashion to communicate identity and individuality,” she said.

Bakare said the presentations demonstrated the possibilities of fashion as a means of self-expression.

“I am delighted to see Fela’s influence celebrated beyond music. His legacy continues to inspire creativity across different aspects of culture,” she added.

Cultural Identity on the Runway

Another attendee, Chukwudi Okafor, praised the connection between the designs and Nigerian cultural identity.

“What makes this show unique is how it brings together culture, creativity and contemporary fashion in one place,” he said.

He described clothing as a way of communicating stories and cultural experiences, while allowing people to develop their own styles.

“I appreciate the fact that the show encourages people to embrace their cultural identity while expressing themselves in their own distinctive ways,” Okafor said.

Temiloluwa Akinyemi said the event gave designers and fashion enthusiasts room to explore ideas rooted in Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

“I am impressed by the originality of the outfits on display and the different interpretations of Fela-inspired fashion,” she said.

Akinyemi added that drawing on heritage could help designers preserve cultural identity while creating contemporary clothing.

Ahead of Felabration

Initiated by Fela’s family, Felabration celebrates his contributions to music, culture and the struggle for social justice. The festival brings together musicians, artists and audiences from Nigeria and abroad.

Fela, who died on 2 August 1997, combined his Afrobeat sound with outspoken criticism of political corruption and social injustice.

The 2026 edition of Felabration is scheduled for 12 to 18 October. Ahead of the festival, ‘Dress Fela’ offered a fashion-focused interpretation of his legacy, placing cultural expression and individuality at the heart of the runway.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.