Critique: Ewa Fusion by Qumbie Couture – A Bold Cultural Statement That Still Has Room to Grow

By Odunayo Ayo Ojo

In an industry increasingly obsessed with fast trends and Western templates, Qumbie Couture’s Ewa Fusion collection is a refreshing cultural statement. The collection, helmed by Bukola Ajibade, Creative Director of Qumbie Couture, attempts to weave traditional African aesthetics with modern-day silhouettes — and largely succeeds in creating a visually cohesive, story-rich line. But beneath the elegant surface lies a tension between artistry and wearability that begs for deeper reflection.
Cultural Richness, Strong Identity

There’s no denying the visual power of this collection. The use of grounded hues — burnt sienna, mustard gold — and traditional motifs like leopard print evoke a strong sense of place and identity. In a fashion landscape often flooded by Eurocentric minimalism, Ewa Fusion dares to embrace maximalist storytelling. This is African fashion with a voice — and it’s loud, proud, and unapologetically feminine.

The standout A-line midi dress, draped partially in animal print, captures the spirit of the collection best. It is equal parts graceful and assertive, giving the illusion of effortlessness while carrying significant cultural weight. The brooch detail adds just enough drama to elevate the look without tipping into excess.
Strengths and Silhouettes

Perhaps the most commendable aspect of Ewa Fusion is its versatility. From boardroom-ready peplum dresses to cocktail-appropriate midis, Bukola Ajibade demonstrates a clear understanding of the modern Nigerian woman’s style journey. These are pieces designed for movement — through time, through space, through shifting roles.

However, some silhouettes risk repeating familiar tropes. The peplum dress with leopard insert, while beautifully constructed, edges dangerously close to predictability. It feels like a safer option compared to the daring strength of other pieces, especially in a collection that otherwise seeks to challenge fashion norms with bold textures and cultural pride.
What Could Be Better

While the collection is clearly a labor of love, it occasionally leans too heavily on symbolism without offering enough innovation in structure. A more experimental use of fabric — perhaps layering sheer with textured cottons or exploring asymmetric tailoring — could elevate future iterations of this concept.

Additionally, while Ewa Fusion confidently tells its story through color and form, it would benefit from subtle surprises. Unexpected closures, contrasting linings, or culturally inspired accessories could add new depth and expand the narrative of the pieces.

Still, it is impossible to deny the intentionality behind every design decision. As Bukola Ajibade puts it, this is fashion that “knows where it comes from” — and that sense of rootedness is exactly what makes the collection resonate, even when certain pieces fall short of groundbreaking.
Final Thoughts

Ewa Fusion is not a perfect collection, but it doesn’t need to be. It is purposeful, proud, and full of potential. It lays the groundwork for deeper storytelling through fashion — a space that Qumbie Couture, under Bukola Ajibade’s creative direction, is clearly poised to own.

With a stronger balance between symbolism and innovation, future collections could push even further — not just defining what Afro-modern fashion looks like, but what it feels like to wear it.