The name Lanre Da Silva has long been synonymous with Nigerian high fashion. A visionary couturier who effortlessly merges heritage with modernity, her designs have graced international runways, adorned supermodels, and inspired countless fans. With her brand turning 20 next year, Da Silva remains a force to be reckoned with in an industry she helped shape. Her upcoming show promises to be nothing short of spectacular, with the debut of Eternal Glamour, a collection she describes as “an ode to timeless elegance with a contemporary twist.”
But that’s not all. Lanre is also unveiling The LDA Runway Renaissance, an initiative aimed at spotlighting emerging talent in the Nigerian fashion space. For its debut, she has handpicked three promising designers, each bringing their unique flair to the table. “It’s time to nurture the next generation,” she says, her voice filled with a blend of passion and purpose.
As she gears up for this milestone, Lanre opens up about the journey that’s brought her here, her thoughts on the Nigerian fashion industry in a turbulent economy, and her ambitious plans for the future—including a potential diffusion line that aims to make the Lanre Da Silva magic more accessible. In her words, “Fashion is about evolution, and I’m excited for what’s next.”
From reflections on her past to her bold vision for the future, Lanre Da Silva Ajayi is proof that glamour is eternal—especially when paired with grit.
Congratulations, Lanre! Everyone’s buzzing about tonight’s big show—The LDA Runway Renaissance is such an exciting platform. What inspired you to launch this unique initiative?
Thank you so much! I’m also thrilled to see the excitement around it. The idea for The LDA Runway Renaissance came from my vision of celebrating both innovation and sustainability within African fashion. I wanted to create a platform where designers who are just as passionate about local craftsmanship, sustainability, and inclusivity could showcase their work to a global audience. It’s about merging tradition with modernity and putting the best of African design on an international stage.
Sustainability seems central to this event. How did you select the designers being featured?
Sustainability is a cause close to my heart, so I wanted designers who genuinely embody this value in their work. I sought out creative individuals dedicated to ethical practices, whether through eco-friendly fabrics, supporting local craftsmanship, or minimising waste in their production processes. Each designer represents sustainability uniquely, and together, they contribute to a powerful, unified message.
Tell us a bit about what each designer brings to the runway. How does their work add to the overall narrative of this show?
Each designer has such a distinct voice. One is pioneering in fabric technology, working with biodegradable materials to create pieces that feel ahead of their time. Another is revitalising traditional Nigerian weaving techniques, blending these age-old methods into wearable, modern designs. The third designer has a strong narrative style, using fashion to spotlight social issues. They embody the future of African fashion—sustainable, innovative, and socially conscious.
Speaking of designs, there is high anticipation for your collection, “Eternal Glamour. ” What was the creative spark behind it, and how does it align with your broader vision for LDA?
“Eternal Glamour” is a love letter to timeless elegance. I wanted this collection to celebrate femininity in all its forms—powerful, graceful, and complex. The designs are about transcending trends, featuring classic and modern silhouettes. This collection embodies my ongoing vision for LDA, which has always been about luxurious craftsmanship and honouring the multifaceted African woman.
Incredible. Next year marks a major milestone—20 years of LDA! Looking back, are there moments that stand out to you, and is there anything you wish you had known when you began?
Reaching 20 years feels surreal! So many memories stand out, but a few moments truly shine. Our debut on international runways was unforgettable; it felt like a stamp of validation for all the hard work. Another was seeing LDA featured in a Dolce & Gabbana store, which broke boundaries for African luxury fashion. If I could go back, I’d remind myself that success isn’t just about talent. It’s about building a brand that can sustain itself, and that takes time.
You’ve witnessed the Nigerian fashion industry transform over the years. Where do you see it headed next?
The industry has made such strides, and I think we’re just scratching the surface. We’re seeing a new wave of designers who are not only incredibly talented but also savvy about the business side. I believe Nigerian fashion will continue to make its mark globally, from high fashion to everyday wear. There’s a strong push toward sustainability and local production, which I think is vital for the industry’s longevity.
That aligns so well with the Runway Renaissance’s themes of sustainability and local production. How are Nigerian designers embracing these values?
There’s a real shift happening. Designers are not only seeking out local materials but also working closely with artisans to preserve traditional crafts while exploring new, sustainable methods of creation. This is encouraging because this movement not only supports our local economy but also contributes to global sustainability efforts.
Economic challenges can be tough on creatives. How are Nigerian designers managing to stay resilient?
Nigerian designers are incredibly resourceful. Many are finding innovative ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality, such as collaborating with local suppliers and reducing waste. There’s also an emphasis on creating versatile, multi-functional pieces that offer customers more value. These tough times are forcing designers to think outside the box, creating solutions that benefit both their businesses and their communities.
You’ve long been an advocate for emerging designers. What advice would you give to those aspiring to make it in the industry?
My advice is to hold onto your vision while remaining open to growth. Fashion is competitive, so persistence is key. Take the time to build a strong brand identity, embrace risks, and always seek ways to innovate. Networking is also essential—collaborate with peers, connect with mentors, and learn from their experiences.
What do you hope the LDA Runway Renaissance will represent to the next generation of African designers?
I hope it serves as a source of inspiration. I want emerging designers to dream big, embrace sustainability, and recognise the power of their heritage. African fashion has such a rich story to tell, and I want these designers to feel empowered to blend that heritage with modern elements. The world is watching, and they have limitless potential.
Collaboration is becoming a major trend. How do you see it shaping the future of fashion?
Collaboration is the future. It brings diverse perspectives together, sparking creativity and innovation. I believe collaboration will play an even bigger role, especially as sustainability becomes a priority. Working with artisans, other designers, and even brands from different industries can lead to diverse and dynamic collections.
African fashion’s global appeal is undeniable. How do you envision Nigerian fashion impacting the international scene?
Nigerian fashion has such a unique identity, and the world is beginning to take notice. From vibrant colours to intricate beadwork, our designs have something fresh to offer. Nigerian designers are carving out a place on the global stage, and I believe this presence will only grow. We’re already seeing Nigerian brands at major fashion weeks, and I think this is just the beginning.
Many international brands are exploring diffusion lines. Do you envision a more accessible line for LDA in the future?
Yes, that’s definitely something I’ve been considering. As LDA continues to evolve, I want to reach a broader audience. A diffusion line would allow us to do that while staying true to our brand ethos. There’s a lot to look forward to—stay tuned!
Who or what has been your biggest source of inspiration?
African women are my ultimate inspiration—their strength, grace, and beauty drive everything I create. I also find endless inspiration in Nigeria’s rich culture and Africa’s diversity. Every collection I design reflects something from our architecture, history, or artistry.
LDA has already achieved so much. Where do you see the brand in five years?
In five years, I envision LDA as a globally recognised luxury brand that showcases African creativity at its finest. I hope to expand our international footprint, collaborate with global partners, and continue to honour our roots in Nigerian craftsmanship. Sustainability will be even more central to our production processes as we grow.
Do you have any personal rituals that keep your creativity flowing?
I do! For me, creativity thrives in calm surroundings. I love to travel, visit art exhibitions, and spend time in nature to recharge. Reading and listening to music also help spark new ideas, and I make time for meditation and journaling to stay focused and inspired.
If you could collaborate with any designer in the world, who would it be?
Alber Elbaz comes to mind immediately. His work was creative and elegant, and he had this wonderful way of blending modern and classic elements. I’d have loved to merge his timeless French aesthetic with African flair. His passing was a huge loss to fashion, but his legacy remains a constant source of inspiration.
What legacy do you hope Lanre Da Silva-Ajayi and the LDA brand will leave in fashion?
I want to be remembered for inspiring and empowering people to see African fashion as a global contender. For LDA, I hope it’s a legacy of quality, sustainability, and pride in our cultural roots—a brand that shows the world Africa’s unique voice in fashion.
