Dhaven Touch’s Celebration of Afrocentric Heritage Through Modern Menswear : A Review of ANDE and TEMI by Oluwadamilola Adeyinka Shofarasin

By Dimeji Alara

These days that fashion is making a sharp return to its source, with the inclusion of indigenous narratives and cultural pride, Dhaven Touch, founded by the visionary Oluwadamilola Adeyinka Shofarasin has stepped into spotlight with the release of two dansiki designs she named ANDE and TEMI. These ensembles are not merely garments but are a compelling representations of storytelling of cultural heritage through wearable arts, thus, engaging the modern man with traditional elegance and purpose.
The first design, is ANDE which is a clear and striking traditional dansiki. Crafted in a crisp top wear of white, the tunic is enhanced by subtle patch of pockets, particularly in the side inserts and chest detail, offering a visual continuity with the earth-toned, vertical-striped aso oke pants. The design is equally matched with a fila, lending the look a dignified poise

ANDE radiates a minimalist sophistication as well as embracing cultural authenticity.This piece seamlessly integrates traditional craftsmanship with modern tailoring, thus offering a versatile silhouette that fits formal occasions, ceremonial events, or contemporary social gatherings.

TEMI, which is the second design of the duo, on the other hand embodies a bolder expression. The mint-green dansiki is matched with vibrant teal and black details that echoe through the striped aso oke trousers. The choice of fabric and that of the palette reflect confidence and depth, ideal for a man who wants to command attention without speaking a word. Just like the first design ANDE, TEMI is also paired with a richly woven Yoruba fila, a sure affirmation of cultural allegiance.

I uphold that TEMI is desirable for its assertive use of color blocking and proportion, which gives whoever the wearer is an empowered posture of both confidence and power. The design embraces cultural pride and pushes it forward into a global fashion conversation about identity and heritage; and making TEMI a statement piece for the progressive gentleman.

What the two pieces have in common is the use of aso oke, which a traditional Yoruba woven textile. Although for a long time, aso oke is reserved for ceremonial wear, now, aso oke has found renewed purpose in contemporary fashion and that is courtesy of designers like Oluwadamilola Adeyinka Shofarasin. In both ANDE and TEMI, the textile, aso oke does not just serve a decorative function; it carries the weight of legacy, craftsmanship, cultural heritage and of course, historical pride. This integration of aso oke into modern designs that bridges the generational gap by introducing Afrocentric heritage to younger demographics in a language they understand, I mean style.

This thoughtful use of aso oke does not only preserve the fabric’s historical significance over the years but also repositions it as a medium for forward-thinking and modern design. It moreso, celebrates heritage through innovation, and in turn offering fashion enthusiasts fashion pieces that are both conversation starters and heirlooms of identity.

ANDE and TEMI reflect a rising movement in menswear where authenticity meets aspiration. These designs for me, surely go beyond aesthetics; they narrate stories of ancestral relevance, evoke memory, and encourage cultural dialogue of traditional and contemporary fashions. Oluwadamilola Adeyinka Shofarasin’s commitment to storytelling through fabric invites the modern man to wear not just only clothes, but confidence, culture, and character as well.

As fashion continues to revisit and reinterpret heritage, especially in these days, Dhaven Touch’s latest offering of essesmbles is a testament to the power of design rooted in identity. Both ANDE and TEMI are compelling contributions to the Afrocentric renaissance, redefining what it means to be stylish, modern, and yes, proudly African.