Why I titled my new collection ‘Royale’ – Umar Abdurasheed

By Seun Emmanuel

The brain behind The Vantage Gent, Umar Abdurasheed, has continue to lead the trails with his innovative, clean and cut type of clothing. He has effortlessly bridged the gap between modernity and tradition. His latest collection which he titled Royale, was released earlier this year. He talks about the inspiration behind the collection, his journey as a fashion designer and future plan.

What inspired your new collection ‘Royale’?

The Royale collection was inspired by the quiet power of nobility — not just the visual grandeur we associate with royalty, but the poise, confidence, and timeless elegance that comes with true leadership. I wanted to create something that captures the essence of dignity and prestige while remaining modern and wearable. It’s about celebrating the African man as a king in his own right — not just in ceremonial moments, but in his everyday presence.

For how long have you been working on this?

This collection has been in development for a little over six months. From concept to fabric sourcing, sketching, sampling, and perfecting the cuts, every stage required a high level of attention to detail. I didn’t want to rush it. Royale had to feel intentional — every fabric, stitch, and silhouette needed to embody the richness and sophistication the name suggests.

What comes next after this collection? Are you working on a new one?

Absolutely — creativity never stops. After Royale, we’re working on a capsule collection that explores more minimalist native wear with international influence — a fusion of African tradition and modern global aesthetics. While Royale focuses on grandeur and heritage, the next chapter will speak more to versatility and movement, allowing our clients to wear native pieces across a wider range of settings.

Why did you choose the name ‘Royale’?

The name ‘Royale’ was chosen because it reflects the core identity of the collection — grace, authority, and refined strength. I wanted a name that instantly evokes class and nobility, but also feels timeless and globally resonant. ‘Royale’ doesn’t just suggest status; it implies purpose, excellence, and a deep-rooted sense of self-worth — all of which are values I believe our pieces help to express.

I have been a fan of your work as a fashion designer. How did this journey start?

Thank you, that truly means a lot. My journey began with a deep respect for African heritage and a desire to tell our stories through fashion. While studying Agriculture at Kwara State University, I was drawn to design — not just as aesthetics, but as identity. Guided by my aunt, a designer in Abuja, I immersed myself in the craft. That passion led me to launch The Vantage Gent in 2018, with a vision to transform native menswear into a global symbol of sophistication.

For someone who started fashion designing in 2018, how has it been so far?

It’s been a journey of intentional growth. What started as custom outfits for close circles has evolved into an international menswear brand known for its detail, heritage, and elegance. We’ve dressed clients for weddings, milestones, and red carpets across Nigeria, the UK, and beyond. The process hasn’t been easy, but the brand’s commitment to quality and cultural relevance has consistently opened new doors — proving that African fashion can thrive at the highest level.

While at Kwara State University, you participated in fashion shows. How did that influence your work in the UK today?

Those early shows were pivotal. They taught me how to communicate ideas through clothing, how to present confidently, and how to receive feedback. Today in the UK, those lessons remain with me — whether I’m styling a client or preparing for a brand showcase. They shaped the creative discipline behind The Vantage Gent, giving me the confidence to introduce African designs to international audiences with pride and precision.

Now that you’re in the UK, what can Nigeria learn from the UK fashion industry?

The UK fashion industry thrives on structure — from accessible production systems to funding for creatives. Nigeria has the talent, the culture, and the stories, but we need better systems: more investment in design education, stronger supply chains, and platforms to amplify African voices globally. My mission with The Vantage Gent is to bridge that gap — creating premium native wear that’s as globally respected as it is culturally rooted.

Who are the top five Nigerian designers you’re watching?

I admire designers who balance innovation with identity. Mai Atafo, for timeless tailoring. Kenneth Ize, for reviving indigenous fabrics. Orange Culture, for redefining masculinity. T.I. Nathan, for his clean, modern aesthetics, and Deola Sagoe, whose detailing is always world-class. These creatives inspire me to continue pushing the boundaries with The Vantage Gent.

Your attention to detail is impressive. Why is that so important to you?

Details reflect intention. At The Vantage Gent, every stitch, motif, and cut is designed to make the wearer feel seen, respected, and powerful. We’re not just making clothes — we’re crafting identity. In a world of mass production, our commitment to detail is what elevates tradition into couture, and gives each client a unique sense of presence.

Running a business for years isn’t easy. What challenges have you faced?

Scaling quality, managing logistics, and educating the market have been some of the biggest challenges. But each has taught me to lead with vision, adapt with grace, and stay rooted in purpose. Today, The Vantage Gent is not just surviving — it’s thriving — because we turned every obstacle into a lesson and every lesson into a design philosophy.

Creativity is key in fashion. What keeps you inspired?

I draw inspiration from my culture, my clients, and my journey. Every piece I create is a tribute to African heritage and a nod to modern elegance. Seeing a groom walk into his wedding in a Vantage Gent agbada, or a young man reclaim his confidence in one of our kaftans — those moments remind me why I do this. They’re not just wearing clothes; they’re wearing legacy.

What milestones has The Vantage Gent achieved so far?

It was founded in 2018 and grown into a cross-continental brand. It has successfully dressed clients across Nigeria, the UK, and the U.S. The firm launched curated collections with deep cultural storytelling and hosted private showcases for diaspora clients in London. It built a made-to-measure remote service for global access, and developed a growing team of artisans dedicated to preserving traditional craftsmanship.