IAMISIGO debuted its Spring/Summer 2027 collection during Copenhagen Fashion Week, transforming banana fibers sourced from agricultural waste in Uganda into contemporary garments. According to the brand, the presentation advanced a collection titled “Sacred Ecologies,” which highlights intersections between human wearers, natural surroundings, and regional craftsmanship.
Bubu Ogisi and the Vision Behind IAMISIGO
Designer Bubu Ogisi established IAMISIGO with creative studios spanning Lagos, Accra, and Nairobi, focusing on traditional textile techniques paired with recycled materials to interpret heritage and local culture. Ogisi received the Zalando Visionary Award for 2025 and earned a spot as a semi-finalist for the LVMH Prize 2026, gaining formal placement on the Copenhagen Fashion Week schedule.
Innovations in Agricultural Waste and Plant Fibers
The “Sacred Ecologies” collection utilizes banana fibers left over from crop harvests, which are extracted into natural strands and subsequently hand-woven by African artisans. This process reduces agricultural waste and lowers the carbon footprint compared to synthetic textile manufacturing. In addition to banana fibers, Ogisi collaborated with makers to test treatments such as burying Ugandan barkcloth in soil to interact with natural muds, producing distinct orange-brown tones. The lineup also incorporates Nigerian cotton, sisal hemp from the sisal plant, and recycled aluminum from Kenya alongside beadwork and traditional brass ornaments.
Did You Know?
IAMISIGO’s production model relies on close partnerships with localized artisans, pairing ancestral handicraft methods with experimental material testing to drive circularity.
Sustainability and Heritage in Luxury Fashion
According to label materials, IAMISIGO defines sustainability beyond organic fibers or minimal Western aesthetics, emphasizing the preservation of regional wisdom and craftsmanship. By merging environmental responsibility with luxury design frameworks, the brand continues to test new methods for utilizing overlooked raw materials across the African continent.
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials are used in the IAMISIGO Spring/Summer 2027 collection?
The collection utilizes banana fibers from agricultural waste, Ugandan barkcloth, Nigerian cotton, sisal hemp, recycled aluminum, and traditional brass and bead embellishments.
Who is the designer behind IAMISIGO?
Bubu Ogisi is the founder and creative director of IAMISIGO, operating out of studios in Lagos, Accra, and Nairobi.
What industry recognition has the brand received?
IAMISIGO won the Zalando Visionary Award for 2025 and was selected as a semi-finalist for the LVMH Prize 2026.
Explore more stories on sustainable fashion innovations and international design talent by subscribing to our newsletter or leaving a comment below.
Keep reading