House of Iveshead’s Mosaic collection: A Bold New Direction

Connie Aluoch

When Beatrice Omere entered the fashion scene, few could have predicted that tiered Ankara dresses would usher in one of Nigeria’s most loved brands. With that love at an all-time high, House of Iveshead seems to have taken the liberty to chart a new course – a welcomed, fruitful soul-searching adventure – but what does this mean for House of Iveshead lovers who may be accustomed to a certain way?

Everyone knows the House of Iveshead label takes its signature Ankara appeal very seriously, which is why it was surprising to see a first of its kind diversion for its Mosaic collection, with Swiss lace, crepe and yarn influencing silhouettes and mood. Think of this new direction as an indication of what is to come for House of Iveshead as it ventures into unfamiliar territory.

Several pieces in Mosaic carried a lady like air and grace. In this collection, we find waistlines that are accentuated by beadworks and stylishly constructed corsets, slimmed down A line skirts, and form fitted dresses. Included is also a chic crochet pleated ruffled skirt with a matching bucket hat; the bucket hat itself an unusual inclusion for a brand known for its minimal to no accessory approach. Colours ranged from brown to brighter pinks and yellows, but the overall spirit wasn’t a restrained one – it seemed serious and grown-up in many of the looks. Notably, form-fitted beaded dresses were the prevailing look, followed closely by crochet separates, but what was desperately hoped for, was one of House of Iveshead’s undoubtedly signature tiered dress, which the inspiration for this collection, sadly, did not accommodate .

Nevertheless, this collection was a bold step in a new direction, from the colour palette to the craftsmanship, Beatrice presents pieces that are individually distinct but still cohesive which fits the collection’s theme of fragments coming together to form a whole. Moreover, it seems, as House of Iveshead turns a sharp corner in its aesthetic, experimenting and sampling various elements, it somehow managed to still preserve its core mission of empowering women with its pieces – Same House of Iveshead, different era and significantly more mature.