Mai Atafo is a trailblazer whose dedication and passion have reshaped the African fashion industry. With his Summer Spring 2024 (SS24) collection, captured in an intimate three-part docuseries by Days&Nites Studio, we witness not only Atafo’s creative vision but also the incredible effort behind creating one of the country's largest solo fashion shows. This show was more than just a display of fashion; it tells Atafo's journey of challenges, persistence, and triumphs.
Mai Atafo’s brand, established in 2010, has become synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship. Focused on both menswear and womenswear, his pieces are celebrated for their elegance, while his bridal line has become a favorite for its attention to detail and sophistication. Over the years, Atafo has steadily expanded his brand, raising the standards of Nigerian fashion. Yet, in his words, everything still feels missing until it comes together—a reflection of his commitment to excellence and continuous growth.
For the SS24 show, Atafo aimed to go bigger than ever, choosing Nigeria's grandest venue, Eko Hotel, to host over a thousand guests. “It’s the biggest and most luxurious venue in Nigeria,” Atafo noted, expressing his desire to make a significant statement about Nigerian fashion by setting his show in such a prestigious location. This scale-up was no small feat, but for Atafo, it represented a pivotal moment in his brand’s journey.
The docuseries provides a raw and intimate view into the ups and downs of planning and executing a large, in every sense of the word, fashion runway show. The challenges Atafo faced were countless, from the high production costs to last-minute issues with models and logistics. At one point, he expressed his frustration about a model who was hours late, causing delays in a sponsor shoot. Such moments reveal the persistence required to pull off an event of this magnitude, with every detail needing to be perfect despite setbacks. The hard work was worth it, though, as the team successfully produced the show. Atafo’s pride was evident as he spoke to his team after the event, thanking them for their efforts and acknowledging that it was an achievement they could all celebrate.
A vital element of this collection’s journey was the collaboration with Days&Nites Studio, who documented the process from start to finish. Through their series, we gain insights into the work that goes into each piece, each runway walk, and each strategic decision. This project underscores the importance of telling African stories from the inside, capturing the essence of our creativity, and sharing it with the world. Days&Nites Studio’s dedication to capturing these stories is a significant step forward in the industry, as it allows audiences to appreciate the depth of effort behind the scenes. Their work goes beyond visuals, revealing the human element—the passion, frustration, joy, and teamwork that drive the fashion industry.
The SS24 collection was a triumph, with each design showcasing the artistry, luxury, and elegance defining Mai Atafo’s brand. His attention to detail and commitment to delivering something exceptional was evident in every piece, each tastefully done and faithful to his brand's ethos.
Throughout the series, we see that Atafo’s journey is not one he travels alone. His team is integral in bringing his vision to life, from brainstorming sessions to last-minute fittings. This teamwork is what makes each collection and runway show possible. Atafo’s gratitude towards his team shines through, a reminder that fashion is as much about the people behind the scenes as it is about the clothes on the runway.
Mai Atafo’s SS24 collection and the accompanying documentary by Days&Nites Studio powerfully remind us of Nigerian fashion's industry potential and how far we have come. Atafo’s work sets a high standard, showcasing what’s possible when creativity is met with determination and teamwork. His journey inspires the next generation of designers and anyone who dreams of pushing beyond challenges.
Atafo has raised the bar with his SS24 collection, solidifying his position as an African fashion pioneer. Thanks to studios like Days&Nites Studio, his story and that of countless other creatives will continue to be told, celebrated, and remembered.
