This is a new wave of young UK designers intent on launching reputable streetwear brands off the back of their strong, African upbringing. The two reigning champs at separate ends of the clothing spectrum: Jai Eleven of [Nothing] and Christopher Kutoya of 1 Figures – are both currently in their element. Endorsing the grime-scene saviours and cultural innovators of our time, the names include the good one Lancey Fouxx, wolf Yxng Bane, Ghetts, Kojey Radical, Aj Tracy, Bonkaz, Kojo Funds, SNE, Frenzy, Dave… you get the picture.

Africa’s cultural influence is undeniably breaking through in the UK. Chris Kutoya of 1Figures clothing is another headliner of the movement. Chris, or FiggyOneTime is a designer who attests to the art of supporting thy brethren. An endorser of the culture, he dresses the top veterans and newcomers of grime and Afro-swing in the UK, from Ghetts, Kojo Funds to Afro B. Chris attributes his principle of giving back and endorsement to his African upbringing. “I feel it [African background] channels how I treat everyone with the upmost respect… and 1Figures is about unifying people regardless of social positioning…whether you have 1k or 100k, I see personality as the strongest currency”.

https://nationofbillions.com/we-do-fashion-we-didnt-study-fashion

By Jason Owusu-Frimpong