BEHIND THE STITCH: ALANI
June 21, 2024
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In the ever-evolving landscape of global fashion, certain brands emerge not just as clothing lines but as cultural touchstones that embody a deeper philosophy. One such name shaking up the streetwear scene is World Black Fantasy (WBF), a Dubai-based, Nigerian-owned fashion powerhouse founded by the ingenious Tayo Okoya. Known for its bold aesthetic, 3D artistry, and an uncompromising fusion of fashion and storytelling, WBF has swiftly carved its niche as more than just a brand–it’s a psychedelic experience that challenges reality.
The story of World Black Fantasy is the story of Tayo Okoya, a Nigerian-born, Dubai-based creative visionary with an insatiable passion for artistic expression. With expertise spanning animation, graphic design, modeling, and fashion, Okoya has always viewed clothing as not just fabric but as wearable art. WBF was born out of his desire to redefine street fashion, using it as a medium to narrate his personal experiences and reshape the narrative surrounding black culture. In his own words, “My fashion pieces are art worn as clothes.” Every piece created under the WBF umbrella is a reflection of his worldview–bold, unapologetic, and a statement in itself. Since its inception, WBF has gained traction not just in the UAE and Nigeria but across international fashion circuits, attracting a growing cult-like following.
What sets WBF apart from conventional streetwear brands is its immersive, 3D artistic approach. Rather than churning out mass-produced designs, Okoya treats each collection as a story, a statement piece that captures the spirit of innovation, and cultural evolution. WBF thrives on pushing boundaries, blending vibrant psychedelia with gritty urban aesthetics. The brand dares to ask: What happens when fashion is no longer just about looking good, but about existing in an alternate reality? This boldness is what makes WBF not just mere clothing. It’s a trip into a wondrous alternate universe.
Since its emergence, WBF has released a series of standout collections, each carrying a unique narrative. The Overdue Awakening collection in 2020 set the stage for WBF’s signature style, gaining attention for its striking blend of abstract patterns, deep symbolism, and immersive visuals. Then during the COVID-19 pandemic, WBF dropped New World, a collection that sold out almost instantly, proving the brand’s ability to tap into the cultural zeitgeist and create designs that resonate with the times.
More recently, WBF collaborated with Nigerian rising music artist Siraheem, the self-proclaimed “blueprint” and younger brother of Tayo Okoya, to create a special Bad Bitch Syndrome tee collection. Inspired by Siraheem’s viral hit of the same name, this collection merges WBF’s signature aesthetic with the energy of contemporary music culture, reinforcing the brand’s deep connection to the African entertainment scene.
The rise of World Black Fantasy has not gone unnoticed, attracting endorsements from some of the biggest names in African music and culture. Industry mogul and Mavin Records CEO Don Jazzy has been spotted rocking WBF’s signature pieces, further cementing its place as a brand embraced by cultural tastemakers.
Nigerian rap heavyweight Odumodublvck, known for his genre-blurring sound and bold personal style, has also incorporated WBF into his wardrobe. There’s also Ruger, the edgy bad boy musician recognized for his distinctive eye patch and unapologetic persona, has been seen in WBF designs. South African rap sensation Nasty C, a trailblazer in African hip-hop, has also embraced the brand, proving that WBF’s influence extends beyond Nigeria.
Even the powerful singer and master saxophonist Seun Kuti has been seen rocking WBF fits as well. Then of course there’s Siraheem, the rising star shaping his own lane in the music industry who has been a vocal supporter, embodying WBF’s essence as both a fashion icon and a musical force.
Beyond just fashion, WBF’s influence extends deep into music and youth culture. The brand’s collaboration with Siraheem is just one example of how it actively blurs the lines between streetwear and sound. At its core, WBF is a lifestyle brand for the bold, the fearless, and the culturally aware, essentially fostering a community where fashion is a language spoken through art, music, and self-expression.
With an impressive track record, World Black Fantasy is set to become a major player in global fashion in no time at all. Founder Tayo Okoya has already expressed aspirations of taking WBF to Paris Fashion Week, further establishing it as a high-caliber, internationally recognized brand. WBF’s expansion isn’t just about growth, it’s about cultural revolution. As Okoya puts it, the brand exists to challenge norms, redefine black identity in fashion, and ensure streetwear isn’t just about clothing but about perspective. With a growing cult following, high-profile collaborations, and a disruptive approach to fashion, World Black Fantasy is on the brink of something historic. The question is no longer if WBF will take over the fashion world, it’s only a matter of when.
