Mai Atafo knows how to get people talking, and this time, he managed to do so before a single model stepped onto the runway. The invitation to his Spring/Summer 2027 womenswear presentation came with an instruction that was difficult to ignore: “All Boys Out.” It sounded playful, perhaps even a little provocative, but Atafo was quite serious. There were no men in the audience. For one evening, the front row and everyone behind it belonged entirely to women.
It was an interesting way to kick off Lagos fashion season, and certainly one that set the presentation apart from the usual runway affair. But beyond the unusual guest list was the collection itself, aptly titled A Measure of Her, which placed the spotlight on ATAFO’s approach to contemporary womenswear.
Atafo has spent years establishing himself as one of Nigeria’s most recognisable names in contemporary tailoring. His reputation rests largely on his ability to create clothes with structure, precision and a polished finish. Although menswear remains an important part of his identity, his bridal and womenswear designs have also earned him a loyal following.
With A Measure of Her, the attention shifted to the possibilities of translating that tailoring expertise into a broader fashion conversation.
A beautifully cut jacket, a flattering silhouette, or an outfit that sits exactly as it should can make as much of an impression as elaborate embellishment. This appreciation for construction has always been one of ATAFO’s strengths, particularly in an industry where dramatic designs and extravagant detailing often command the most attention. His aesthetic is generally more controlled, relying on proportion, clean finishing and an understanding of how clothing should complement the body.
The collection’s title was particularly fitting for a designer whose career has been built around the importance of fit. Measurements are fundamental to good tailoring, but the real skill lies in knowing what to do with them. The difference between an ordinary outfit and an exceptional one often comes down to the smallest details: where a shoulder seam falls, how a waist is defined, or how fabric moves when worn.
Beyond the clothes, the presentation demonstrated Atafo’s understanding of fashion as an experience. The “All Boys Out” concept was clever marketing, creating curiosity ahead of the show and giving the event a distinctive identity. It also offered another opportunity for ATAFO to reinforce its position in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive luxury fashion market.
