In lieu of a show, Tia Adeola decided to create a short video to launch her spring 2024 collection, which she premiered at an intimate dinner hosted during NYFW. During a preview at the Black in Fashion Council Discovery Showroom, Adeola explained that her tight spring lineup was an interpretation of her own personal growth. “This collection is about transformation,” she said, nodding to the butterfly appliqués spread throughout most pieces in the lineup. “The butterflies represent growth and hope.”
Up until now, Adeola has run her business strictly as direct-to-consumer, but she’s looking to start working with stockists this season. She’s only 26, but has garnered enough attention for this to be a possibility moving forward. Adeola mentioned that her signature ruffle separates remain her top sellers, and there’s enough in this idea for her to expand across categories. As she enters this next stage, she would benefit from tightening her production and finding more finesse. Her eveningwear could use better finishes—baby hems over serged edges would be a start—and she should hold on developing her menswear until she’s buttoned up the women’s. Adeola has potential, but like the butterflies in her collection, she might need a little more time in her cocoon before spreading her wings.
