Benin fashion show unveils 16 ocean-inspired indigo patterns
Couleur Indigo designer Nadia Adanlé presented the "Apusomɛ" collection on the shores of Lake Toho.
On October 24, 2026, the Couleur Indigo brand launched its 19th collection, "Apusomɛ," featuring 16 new indigo patterns inspired by the seabed. Designer Nadia Adanlé presented the creations on the shores of Lake Toho in Ouidah, Benin.
The "Apusomɛ" collection combines textile art with historical memory, aiming to preserve and transmit knowledge of indigo dyeing. Adanlé stated the goal is to promote indigo fabric and enhance its image, noting motifs like fish, seashells, and corals were drawn from the Atlantic Ocean.
One pattern, "Filimi," meaning "Remember Me," was created to honor those lost at sea. Adanlé explained this motif serves as a fabric memorial for those who perished in the Atlantic without graves.
Why it mattersBeninese artisans and designer Nadia Adanlé are promoting cultural heritage through the "Apusomɛ" fashion collection.