The Stars Align For Maki Oh's Spring 2018 NYFW Show

NEW YORK, United States - Childhood games were the subject of Maki Oh's Spring 2018 presentation shown during New York Fashion Week. Creative Director Amaka Osakwe loves her history and even more channeling the narratives of Nigerian lore of old. The collection this time took a more personal approach, salvaging memories of her youth in Lagos.

In contrast to her Fall 2017 collection that boasted sparkling mint green, sunburst yellow, and lavender hues, these twenty-nine looks had a considerably subdued vibe with a few pops of citrus thrown in for good measure. Traditional adire - Yoruba hand dyeing technique - was center stage in a series of illusion blouses, high-waisted culottes, and cocktail dresses.

A cosmic element appeared in hand-drawn stars and moons on ruffled dresses with midnight lace lining. A constellation dress using the same midnight lace was masterfully executed with a bright orange sash on the sleeve. Even the layered gold bobby pins gave a nod to intergalactic ambitions. But Osakwe brought us back to earth with squiggles drawn down the front of pieces in reference to one of her favorite childhood games, hopscotch.

Stand out ensembles were the all-white silk dress with wisely placed darting balanced out by open sleeves and another evening dress in burnt amber with high-slit and asymmetrical strap. A dramatically ruffled trouser would fit right in with existing aesthetic preferences, but the lemony gown with a tulle bandaged top with a scalloped slit felt ultra refreshing. The in-and-out sleeve on the checked blazer was daring, but entirely wearable atop a white tee and jeans. In fact, Osakwe included a pair of denim shorts with pleating - a familiar silhouette with a twist. Osakwe always has something a little undone about her designs and with this collection, the wearer is sure to feel one of a kind.

Photos Courtesy of Maki Oh