Critical Review Of Oluwaseun Olukoya’s ‘The Twinning Collection’

When we think of Fashion couture, one rarely envisions a collection as whimsical, yet as daringly sophisticated as The Twinning Collection by Oluwaseun Olukoya of Wonderchildforkids.

The sheer grandeur of these designs, as seen during the collection exhibition, reminds me of an enthralling runway show at Arise Fashion Week 2020, where elegance meets a playful touch. Oluwaseun’s ability to fuse both mother and child into such cohesive aesthetics speaks volumes about her creativity and vision, and this particular line is no exception.

The collection is a vivid embodiment of femininity, meticulously crafted to offer both beauty and comfort for the modern child and her mother. The floral accents and ball dress, as seen in the blue and green dresses, reflect a certain Baroque sensibility—a lavish celebration of color and form. The multi-colored appliqué flowers, embroidered on a soft tulle, evoke a fresh and whimsical aura that captures childhood’s enchanting spirit. Dimeji Alara – fashion editor, stylist, and former editor of elle South Africa describe the floral detailing as something straight out of a Tim Walker photograph—where fairytales collide with contemporary design.

In reviewing The Twinning Collection, one of the most captivating aspects is the balance between sophistication and comfort. The flowing gowns may initially seem cumbersome, but Oluwaseun’s choice of lightweight fabrics ensures that both mother and child can glide through any social event with ease. The green gowns, in particular, seem to channel the vibrant spirit of summer, with airy tulle layers that create a fairy-like effect. It’s almost as though the dresses were made for a high-fashion editorial spread, yet functional enough for real-life special occasions.

Dimeji Alara, known for their discerning taste in Nigerian fashion, praise Oluwaseun’s focus on craftsmanship and fabric choice during the lunching and showcasing of the twinning collection. They appreciate the intricate detail put into each piece, from the thoughtful color arrangement to the way the garments effortlessly drape over the body. However, the boldness of this collection may polarize some opinions, particularly among those who favor minimalist designs for mothers and daughter’s fashion. That said, in an era where children’s clothing is beginning to occupy its own space in high fashion, The Twinning Collection is exactly what the world needs—a bold re-imagination of mother-daughter ensembles that push the boundaries of convention.

To truly shine in the global arena, Oluwaseun might consider expanding her collection to include a broader range traditional mix of fabrics and seasonal textures. While the current use of fabrics and and vibrant colors is effective, introducing darker, moodier hues could cater to a wider range of clientele, particularly for evening wear. This would allow the collection to transcend seasons, providing versatility and further establishing its relevance on a global scale. Another consideration is the incorporation of adjustable features or elastic elements in the children’s dresses, adding flexibility in size, which is key when catering to a growing clientele.

Ejiro Amos Tafiri also encourages Oluwaseun to explore even more narrative-driven themes, similar to how The Twinning Collection evokes a story of harmony between mother and child. Perhaps future collections could draw inspiration from folklore or nature, positioning the brand not just as a creator of exquisite garments but as a storyteller through fashion.

The Twinning Collection by Oluwaseun Olukoya is a masterclass in merging high fashion with the magic of childhood. It strikes a delicate balance between whimsy and elegance, capturing the essence of couture while remaining playful. With slight adjustments in the form of extended color palettes and modular designs, Wonderchildforkids has the potential to continue its rise as a global powerhouse in children’s luxury fashion.