Meet Nicoletta Akabuogu, BA (Hons) Fashion Pattern Cutting graduate

What inspires your work, and specifically what inspired the collection that you showcased at Africa Fashion Week?

My fashion collections showcased at Africa Fashion Week London are a testament to the harmonious blend of vibrant Nigerian-Igbo colours, breathtaking prints, intricate patterns, and meaningful motifs, all infused with a touch of Italian sophistication, elegance, and silhouettes.

At the heart of my inspiration lies a profound connection to my Igbo culture, one of Nigeria's largest ethnic groups situated in the southeast, with a particular emphasis on the characteristics of my Igbo tribe. This exploration delves into the rich tapestry of colours, the significance of uniforms and traditional attire, the artistry of hairstyles, the allure of Ankara wax prints, and the profound meaning behind each symbol and pattern.

Having grown up in Venice, Italy, my exposure to the world of Italian fashion has left an indelible mark on my artistic sensibilities. The unparalleled craftsmanship, elegance, and the use of quality textiles in Italian fashion became an essential influence, prompting me to seamlessly incorporate Italian sophistication into my designs.

The core of my creative vision has always been to forge a connection between these two diverse cultures. Each tells a story, weaving together the vibrancy of Nigerian-Igbo traditions with the refined elegance of Italian influences, producing a narrative that is uniquely my own.

Can you tell us about any projects you are currently working on and what you plan to do next?

I am currently immersed in my master’s degree in Fashion Entrepreneurship and Innovation at LCF. I decided to apply for this during my final year in BA Fashion Pattern Cutting, where I realised I wanted to expand my skills beyond the creative process and build a comprehensive understand of how to establish and run a successful fashion brand. MA Fashion Entrepreneurship and Innovation is designed to empower individuals in launching or scaling up their businesses, and the course places a strong emphasis on business concepts such as ideation and testing, as well as leadership and teamwork skills.

Currently, I am establishing my fashion brand; women's wear collections that celebrate the exquisite beauty of black culture. Each creation is a tribute to the strength and elegance inherent in every woman. The essence of this brand lies in seamlessly blending the elegance of my Nigerian Igbo heritage with Italian sophistication. As I navigate through this entrepreneurial journey, my aim is not only to create beautiful garments but to contribute to the narrative of empowerment and celebration of diverse cultures through fashion.

What advice would you give to other students who are studying Fashion Pattern Cutting at LCF currently?

For any student embarking on the exciting journey of studying BA Fashion Pattern Cutting at LCF, I would say: take the time to delve into the intricate details of garments—observe how they are made, tailored, and sewn. Set aside moments for sketching, pattern cutting, and draping; these hands-on practices not only refine your technical skills but also allow your creativity to flourish.

Follow your instincts and design preferences, allowing your mood and personality to influence your creations, for they reflect you. Immerse yourself in the wealth of knowledge possessed by tailors, technicians, and pattern cutters with extensive experience in the field. Building meaningful relationships and networks throughout your journey is paramount.

Stay attuned to trends, external fashion collections, and the unique pattern cutting techniques employed in each design. Familiarise yourself with digital technologies such as CAD Lectra, Adobe software, and other useful programs. This course is a treasure trove of incredible skills that will undoubtedly serve as valuable assets for your future endeavors.

For aspiring pattern cutters, understanding the inner workings of garment design and being aware of how different shapes and construction methods contribute to various silhouettes is crucial. My primary advice would be to emphasize practice—immerse yourself in pattern cutting, as learning is truly achieved through doing, and practice undeniably leads to perfection.

Additionally, don't hesitate to ask questions, seek advice, and actively seek feedback. Remember, growth is a continuous process, and there is always room for improvement. Approach challenges with curiosity, embrace the learning journey, and never take things too personally, as each experience is an opportunity for personal and professional development.