I grew up with my mum's Singer sewing machine in the house. She would make clothes for me and even outfits for my dolls, and although I didn't know it then, those moments stayed with me.
As I got older, I became fascinated by fashion.
I remember sneaking back into the living room after everyone had gone to bed just to watch fashion shows. There was something about seeing an idea come to life through clothing that I couldn't get enough of.
Years later, while I was at university in Nigeria, I started designing and creating outfits for fellow students. Some needed dresses for weddings, others for final-year dinners, graduations, project defences, or birthday photoshoots. I loved being part of those moments and helping people feel confident in clothes that were made just for them.
Looking back, I realise that the pieces I created were never just outfits. They became part of people's memories.
Layana was born from that understanding, that what we wear often stays with us long after the moment has passed.
Who is Layana?
Layana is a fashion brand inspired by memory the kind we hold onto, revisit, and refuse to forget.
In African culture, memory is not distant, it is lived.
We gather around tables, show up for each other at weddings, graduations, and celebrations, and carry those moments forward long after they’ve passed.
Layana exists within that rhythm where clothing becomes part of how we remember.
Rooted in storytelling and intentional design, Layana explores how clothing can carry both personal and collective experiences.
Each piece is designed not just to be worn, but to hold meaning shaped by culture, craft, and the everyday moments that define us.
Our Debut Collection
Àjọjẹ is the debut collection from Layana Collective.
Inspired by the Yoruba idea of sharing and gathering, it explores connection, community, and belonging.
Through thoughtfully designed pieces and distinctive textile patterns, the collection celebrates the beauty of coming together.
Each piece is created to carry both cultural meaning and contemporary relevance.
Àjọjẹ invites people to wear not just clothing, but a story.
It is a reflection of heritage, identity, and collective experience.