Maki Oh collections are marked by a certain vibrancy and complexity that is pleasing at first glance, but means even more when you dive into the history and meaning of the pieces. For Fall, Amaka Osakwe tapped into the essence at her very core: what it means to be a black woman in this day and age. Naturally, the answer is multi-faceted and ever-changing, but the designer gave a few possible answers to the question in sartorial form.

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With only a few black designers making waves in fashion in a mainstream way, Osakwe’s voice is definitely an important one for the industry to hear. Her aesthetic has always been unapologetically Nigerian, with Yoruban adire and traditional garb woven into her modern silhouettes.

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Patterns were aplenty in the assortment, with swirl motifs, camo, and a geometric triangle print playing centerstage.

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Eyes are symbolic across many cultures and Osakwe placed them on a classic long-sleeve, jersey top in paillette form, a long-sleeve printed midi dress with contrast flounce sleeve hems, a cozy topper that we’d like to wear right now in real-time, and a sheer, button-front shirt for the perfect blend of sexiness and whimsy.

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And the brand played on all of the quintessentially feminine details—tiered tulle, sexy slits, ruffles, plunging necklines, and more.

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The way Osakwe played with trousers were among the most inspiring and innovative riffs we’ve seen this season. Iterations included pearl trim accenting the slits of the pant hems, a velvet suit that was red carpet-ready to say the least, culottes layered over a silky full-length pair of trousers, and a pearl-encrusted pair of crops with pleated detailing.

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We love clothing made for powerful and strong women with an aesthetic that seeks to radiate that energy and spirit. This assortment was both alluring and beautiful—sure to please the brand’s fans, while also pulling in a whole new set of admirers who are seeking out looks that hold much more than what meets the eye.

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Thoughts on the latest from Maki Oh?

Images: VOGUE.com

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