Bloke took a different approach to its Lagos Fashion Week 2026 presentation. Rather than showcasing a collection by its creative director, Faith Oluwajimi, the brand introduced its inaugural Designer-in-Residence programme, offering another designer a platform to present their creative vision. Its first resident, Pelumi Oyewo, made the runway debut with Tzar Bomba, a Spring/Summer 2027 collection presented under Bloke’s curatorial direction.
The presentation brought a futuristic and theatrical sensibility to the runway, exploring ideas around segregation and Black identity through sheer fabrics and metallic finishes. It was an interesting way for Bloke to engage with this year’s CRAFTED: Heritage. Innovation. Circular Futures. theme, shifting the focus from a single brand identity to the possibilities of creative collaboration and mentorship.
The Designer-in-Residence programme also raises an important question about how established fashion labels can contribute to the wider industry beyond their own collections. By creating room for emerging creative voices, Bloke is extending its platform and making space for new perspectives within Nigerian fashion. With Tzar Bomba, the brand introduced an initiative that could become just as interesting to follow as the collections themselves.
