Meet the emerging brand consciously celebrating cultural heritage through contemporary design

Ek Sien Jou is the latest pre-fall 2024 collection by Afro-Asian luxury brand, Dijágo Studios. Founded in 2022 by Grace Owusu-Agyemang and Khudija Zaib, Dijágo is a fusion of Pakistani, Ghanaian and South African heritage immersed by the preservation of craft, trust and elegance.

The evening of September 14th saw the Old Brompton Gallery animated with intertwined cultures for the brand’s second collection, inspired by ‘a timeless amalgamation of Pakistani architectural patterns and West African textiles.’ A blend of food, people, music and materials coming together to champion refined creativity from The East.

Setting the mood around the space were DJs Almass Badat and Lilo Galeria, as well as customised scents by Zen Blends, ceramic vessels by Nhan-Nhi Lillian Nguyen and material explorations by Lara Lopez Ayuso. Following the event launch, Dijágo held a spinning and weaving workshop led by Ayuso and Nowshin Prenon, diving into traditional textile creation.

Continuing their commitment to eco-conscious design, Ek Sien Jou uses fully compostable materials, sustainably sourced zippers and wood cellulose threads. Fabrics across production comprise of 100% regenerative wool, organic cotton, linen, hemp and deadstock twill.

“For DIJÁGO, evolving and redefining luxury fashion means expanding our circular practices, keeping our supply chain sustainable & reducing emissions,” explains co-founder Gracey Owusu-Agyemang. “From the creation and sourcing of materials to working with skilled artisans, everything flows in a natural, circular way with the earth always in mind.”

On display are incredible bespoke pieces such as draped cotton shirts, denim crop jackets and handmade chappals. Stand out pieces are the Adrinkra Affirmation leather jacket, and a stunning green-and-white-striped print trouser and jacket ensemble — referencing traditional Namibian textile art, Odelela — meaning ‘to come together.’ The piece features mirror work embellishment derived from Sindhi culture.

Other prints include layered digital cyano and Ajrak — a 5,000-year-old traditional dye technique using wooden blocks, natural dyes and cow or camel dung as a resistance paste. It’s celebrated for its intricate geometric and floral designs, and holds cultural and spiritual significance, symbolising fertility and prosperity.

Appliqué, crochet and embroidery techniques by artisan women of Baffa, Pakistan are adorned throughout, as part of the Dijágo Foundation Artisan Collective — an initiative dedicated to providing a tangible difference in the lives of underprivileged and talented women facing limitations due to familial responsibilities. Intricate patchwork and etching details are also not to be missed. Fastenings come in the form of biodegradable zippers with recycled brass teeth, yew wood buttons, as well as gold-and silver-plated hardware featuring the iconic Dijágo emblem logo.

The pre-fall 2024 campaign was shot earlier this summer in Pakistan, modelled by Syed Haider Abbas, actor and writer Muhamed Amaz, and Noor Xarmina — Miss Universe Pakistan 2024.

Once again Dijágo has delivered a collection encapsulated by innovation and excitement. It honours craft and heritage through modernity and finesse. This cross-cultural unification presents the fashion world with a new kind of luxury: one with authenticity, community and the earth at the forefront.