For Akin Faminu, style isn’t just something he puts on — it’s who he is. Being named Best Dressed at events has become second nature, but winning the coveted title at the AMVCAs hits differently. This year, he teamed up once again with his trusted collaborators, Deji and Kola, to
deliver a moment that was nothing short of iconic. We caught up with the style star for a quick chat about that unforgettable look, his big win, and what’s next for the ever-evolving Akin Faminu.
Congratulations, Akin! Best Dressed Male at the AMVCA — you’re no stranger to turning heads, but how did this one feel? Especially at such a prestigious event?
Thank you so much! And I know, right? It felt great, honestly; the AMVCA red carpet is the biggest red carpet in Africa, and so many superstars from all over the continent were in attendance this year
with absolutely stunning outfits, probably the best so far in terms of fashion, so to be awarded as the Best Dressed was indeed an honour.
Once again, you teamed up with Deji & Kola for another standout fashion moment. What is it about them that keeps you coming back?
Well, first of all, I’m a huge advocate for wearing Nigerian, I’m very proud to showcase the excellence of Nigerian designers both at home and all over the world. The Deji & Kola brand, beyond fashion, is a visionary brand, and our values align perfectly. The team is creative and
efficient. Our partnership spans over 5 years, and wearing an iconic Deji & Kola piece for the AMVCA this year was a no-brainer.
How long did it take you to decide on your AMVCA look, and what was the process like for both the main event and the Cultural Day?
The more elaborate process was for the main event, and we decided on the look about a month before the day. The process went from consultation to sketching, fabric sourcing, production
, and styling. Working with the Deji and Kola team made it very seamless. For the Cultural day look, it was a piece from the latest Ugo Monye collection called Ife Aso Anyi, however, we spiced things up by styling with a traditional cap and staff that breathed fresh life
into the entire outlook.
Did your outfit hold any particular meaning or inspiration for you this time?
Oh, yes, it did. There’s always a meaning and an inspiration behind every look, and this year was no different. I consider the AMVCA as a black tie event, it’s a Movie award night, just like the
Oscars, but you’d also agree with me that this is subject to interpretation. We wanted to create something that finds the perfect balance between black tie and extravagance and between the old and the new.
We opted for a twist to the vintage collar design with a brooch as opposed to the bow tie, we also referenced the power shoulders of the 80’s – a symbol of empowerment and strength and we embroidered and hand-beaded rose details on one of the sleeves to signify the ”Full Bloom” of both our brands.
It’s been an incredible past year for my brand, and it culminated into this moment and this design.
What’s your approach to making a fashion statement without losing authenticity?
I feel like when there’s a deeper meaning to the outfit, a story to be told, then it’s much easier to be authentic. It’s okay to have references from Fashion’s very rich history, as long as it’s not a
blatant copy / knock off. So more often than not, I lean into that deeper meaning and build up from there.
Do you feel any pressure now that people expect you to always deliver standout looks?
Oh, not at all, fashion comes very naturally to me, in fact, I really enjoy it, so there’s no pressure at all. I’ve been in fashion for over a decade now, so I’m not new to it. I’m very intentional about
the content that I put out as well, because I’m passionate about positioning Nigerian fashion in the best way possible to the world, so if anything, it’s simply an encouragement to keep it going
as opposed to any feeling of pressure.
Which other looks or people caught your eye at the AMVCAs this year?
I loved Osas Ighodaro’s look by Veekee James, also loved my partner, Kiky Festus’ outfit by Mide World, absolutely stunning. Shalom Obi in Eleven Sixteen was a fine look as well, and Yemi in Deji & Kola
Finally, what’s next for Akin Faminu — any exciting projects or fashion collaborations coming up?
Oh it’s been such a busy year so far, and it’s been super amazing, from Paris Fashion Week to Milan Fashion Week and everything in between, but of course, there’s so much more to do.
Currently working on a project with GQ that will be out sometime next month, and quite a number of projects that are intentionally driven to promote Nigerian fashion. Also working on a
new project with Deji & Kola, but I can’t spill the tea on that one just yet haha. But yeah, you can expect so much more for the rest of the year.
