PARIS, France — Lagos Space Programme has long been whispered and observed with curiosity by many insider fashion folks and outsiders. Founded by Adeju Thompson in 2018, his latest showing towards the end of Paris Men’s Fashion Week felt like the whisper had turned into an audible shout.

With support of Reni Folawiyo (behind ALARA) and Mobolaji Dawodu  (of GQ Style), the winner of the 2023 International Woolmark Prize has more than enough pressure on his hands. As is the case with many young designers receiving recognition early as an emerging talent, finding the infrastructure or support to maintain the momentum and the much-needed sales can prove to be the more challenging endeavor.

However, Thompson seems keen on longevity as evidenced by a fourteen piece collection that was distinctly wearable and yet, innovative, melding effortlessly into an existing wardrobe. Sometimes the secret to runway success is in the making itself. The time-worn techniques, including hand painted post-adire, that both honor the craft and heighten the possibility of the craft, have served him well.

Two of the standout pieces weren’t styled on men at all. One, a floor-length knitted coat of dark natural fibers felt right at home paired with leather pumps and an open white button-down shirt. The second, a cape leveraging the resist-dye technique had wide-cut pleats, creating this voluminous effect on the bottom without all of the heaviness.

As a natural evolution from prior seasons, the deconstructed tailoring, especially in this oversized jacket paired with palazzo trousers, informs a way of dressing for Thompson, who plays with non-conforming ideas. It speaks to the type of person Thompson is interested in dressing as well as dressing for himself. Styled by Ola Ebiti, the looks felt super contemporary while still being future-thinking. 

Thompson is finding his stride and here’s hoping the right stockists and press can bring his vision to larger audiences. See the rest of the collection here.