Ever heard someone shout “OYA!” on the bustling streets of Lagos?
It’s not just a word - it’s a vibe!
OYA”: A Yoruba word that means “C’mon go” - A kind of phrase you hear shouted joyfully in Lagos! Exactly the spirit that fuels Oya Abeó. The vibrant fashion brand founded by Nigerian designer Samiat Salami.
(Samiat Salami showcasing what Oya Abeó has to offer at Lagos Fashion week)
Paired with “Abeo”: a more personal praise name Samiat shares with her grandmother. Who Samiat describes as the epitome of “glamour and elegance”.
Together Oya Abeó makes a brand bursting with culture, energy and deep personal meaning.
(“Oya” life!)
The Presence Behind The Brand: Samiat Salami
Samiat’s vision when launching Oya Abeó in 2021, wasn’t about chasing trends but making a link to her roots.
From napkins to the runway - That’s where Oya Abeó began!
Inspired by the vibrant gatherings of Lagos, Samiat started designing her own textiles to bring a little more soul into her everyday space. Which then quickly evolved into something much bigger.
Fast forward, her side project is now a full blown fashion label known for bold prints, rich textures and ethical production. Each item is meticulously and locally crafted in their Lagos studio, with each item taking about 12 hours to complete. Talk about slow fashion with a purpose!
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The Essence of Oya Abeó
Oya Abeó embodies a celebration of culture, identity, and a West African interpretation of glamour.
“I didn’t just want to build a textile brand that was inspired by Africa, I wanted those textiles to be made on the continent.”
The brand perfectly balances centuries-old dyeing techniques with fresh, playful silhouettes. Each piece whispers heritage, while still feeling contemporary at the same!
This ethos is evident in every stitch. It’s fashion with a feeling - elegant, ethical and unmistakably joyful.
Oya Abeó’s runway debut - Lagos Fashion Week
In 2024, Samiat Salami showcased her brand as a finalist in the prestigious Green Access program at Lagos Fashion Week!
Her collection captivated and turned heads within the audiences through its vibrant colours, playful silhouettes, and intricate beadwork.
Picture this: Models gliding down the runway. Beaded details sparkling under the lights. Colours that sing! That was Oya Abeó’s moment at Lagos Fashion Week.
"You're not just wearing a dress when you slip into an Oya Abeó creation—you're wearing a piece of Lagos, a fragment of heritage, a whole lot of joy."
(One of our best selling garments from Oya Abeó, also showcased at Lagos Fashion Week)
A Living Legacy
Oya Abeó is more than just a label - it is a tribute to Nigerian culture.
Through every hand dyed threat, every stitch, and every silhouette that flows with joy and elegance, Oya Abeó carries a legacy, one that honours her roots while inspiring a new generation to wear their culture with pride and honour.
Samiat is honoring her past while shaping the future of African fashion.
Are you ready to wear and represent the spirit of Lagos?
Even if you’re looking to add vibrancy to your wardrobe, Oya Abeó might just be your next obsession, shop Samiat’s collection now on ADJOAA
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