By Ibrahim S. Bangura
London Fashion Week, a global hub of style and innovation, has once again captivated the world, showcasing the creativity of 112 designers and brands over five days of runway presentations. Among the fashion powerhouses like Burberry, Erdem, Paul Costelloe, and Harris Reed, one name making waves is Foday Dumbuya, a Sierra Leonean designer and founder of the luxury brand Labrum.
Born in Sierra Leone and raised in the UK, Dumbuya draws on his West African roots and British influences to create designs that celebrate cultural fusion. Speaking about his brand’s philosophy, Dumbuya said, “London is a melting pot of culture, and we always wanted to bring that into textiles.” His collections narrate stories of identity, migration, and diversity, blending vibrant elements from both cultures. “We try to celebrate that joyfulness when cultures collide,” he explained.
From Runway to Global Recognition
Dumbuya’s influence extends beyond the runway into the global sports arena. He designed Arsenal Football Club’s away kit, a project he described as an honor and a perfect match due to his passion for the club’s ethos of cultural diversity. “I get to speak to so many people around the world about the kit, and so far, Arsenal is still undefeated in it,” he noted proudly.
He also designed the official outfit for Sierra Leone’s Olympic team for the 2024 Paris Games, an achievement he holds dear. “It was everything,” he reflected. “This was my way of giving back, of making my country look good on the global stage.”
Rebranding Sierra Leone Through Fashion
For Dumbuya, fashion is more than creativity; it’s a platform to rebrand Sierra Leone’s image. “We don’t want people to keep looking at Sierra Leone as a war-torn country,” he emphasized. “It’s about showcasing the beauty of our nation—the beaches, the people, the culture.”
Dumbuya’s work has brought global attention to Sierra Leone’s potential and cultural richness, transforming perceptions through vibrant and expressive designs.
London: A Creative Epicenter
Discussing London’s unique role in the global fashion scene, Dumbuya highlighted its unmatched creativity and diversity. “What you get in London, you don’t find anywhere else in the world,” he said. He considers London his creative home, where he develops his collections from concept to completion.
A Testament to Cultural Fusion
As London Fashion Week continues to unfold, Dumbuya remains steadfast in his mission to push boundaries in the fashion industry. His designs embody the power of cultural fusion, telling stories that resonate both personally and universally. With every stitch, Foday Dumbuya is not only shaping garments but also weaving narratives that redefine identity and heritage.