Michelle Adepoju, a 29-year-old British-Nigerian designer, is making waves in the fashion industry with her brand, KÍLÈNTÁR. Born and raised in the UK, Adepoju's journey into fashion was unconventional. After earning a degree in Marketing Communications and Public Relations in London in 2016, she initially pursued a career in marketing. However, her passion for vintage shopping and storytelling led her to establish KÍLÈNTÁR in 2019, a brand deeply rooted in African heritage and craftsmanship. The name "KÍLÈNTÁR" translates to "What are you selling?" in Yoruba, reflecting Adepoju's commitment to offering more than just clothing. Her designs are narratives that showcase African landscapes, culture, and beauty. Self-taught and driven, she collaborated with local artisans and pattern makers across West Africa, emphasizing the untapped potential and rich traditions of the continent. On September 6, 2024, Adepoju made a significant mark by debuting her collection at New York Fashion Week (NYFW). Presented as part of The Green Show and sponsored by Mastercard, her collection titled "Mama Ìbẹ́ta" celebrated Black beauty and African craftsmanship. Each piece was meticulously handwoven, dyed, and beaded by skilled women artisans from West Africa, embodying themes of culture, heritage, sustainability, and style .Reflecting on the experience, Adepoju shared, "It felt both beautiful and overwhelming. I was a little nervous, but I knew my work deserved to be on that stage. The experience was deeply fulfilling" .
Adepoju's designs are a testament to her dedication to ethical fashion and cultural preservation. Her Spring-Summer 2025 collection featured vibrant colors, flowing fabrics, and elegant silhouettes, resonating with themes of Black beauty and femininity. The finale showcased intricately beaded column dresses with sheer underlays, leaving a lasting impression on attendees . "I've been deeply inspired by the incredible women artisans I've met across West Africa. Their dedication to preserving traditional techniques has empowered me both personally and professionally," Adepoju noted, highlighting the collaborative spirit behind her creations .With a vision that transcends fashion, Adepoju aims to dress influential figures like Solange Knowles, Michelle Obama, and Lupita Nyong’o, women she describes as "not only fashion-forward but [they] also represent strength, authenticity, and cultural pride" .
Beyond the runway, she is committed to giving back to her community in meaningful ways, ensuring that her brand's ethos translates beyond clothing. As she continues to blend traditional African artistry with contemporary design, Michelle Adepoju stands as a beacon of innovation and cultural celebration in the global fashion landscape. In April 2025, Adepoju was named to Forbes' "30 Under 30 Europe" list in the Art & Culture category. This recognition highlights her influence in shaping contemporary fashion through sustainable practices and cultural storytelling. Adepoju's aspirations extend beyond design; she aims to empower women and preserve traditional techniques. She envisions dressing influential figures like Solange Knowles, Michelle Obama, and Lupita Nyong’o, who embody strength and cultural pride. Michelle Adepoju's journey reflects a blend of creativity, cultural appreciation, and social responsibility. Her work with KÍLÈNTÁR not only enriches the fashion landscape but also serves as a platform for African artisans and sustainable practices.
Source - Forbes, Uphorial
