STORY BEHIND THE STYLE - TOLU COKER

WHERE IT ALL STARTED

Tolu Coker was born and raised in North Kensington, London. She grew up with two siblings and extended family, making her household an integral part of who she is. Her parents are from Lagos, Nigeria, and immigrated to the UK before Tolu was born. The creative endeavors she set out to pursue were inspired by her mother and father, who were involved in community and art-centered practices. Her late father was a photographer, documenting local protests and engaging in political advocacy at the time. Meanwhile, her mother was heavily involved in Tolu’s school and made much of the clothing that Tolu and her siblings wore through sewing. As a family, they participated in trading and clothing swaps at local markets, strengthening Tolu’s desire and love for sustainability.

 

 

 

INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE

As she grew older, Tolu decided to pursue a fashion-forward career path and attended Central Saint Martins. While studying there, she interned for brands such as Maison Margiela, JW Anderson, and Celine during the Phoebe Philo era. These internships gave her hands-on industry experience that later helped refine her craft. After graduating from CSM, she began working for a fast fashion label in Spain. This position reinforced how much sustainability meant to her; she felt uninspired and conflicted by the work. After leaving this role, she joined Theaster Gates’ Design Lab residency, where artists across a multitude of mediums worked under mentorship from Theaster Gates and drew constant inspiration from fellow creatives.

 

 

 

 

PHILOSOPHY AND DESIGN LANGUAGE

Tolu’s design philosophy is heavily influenced by her blended Nigerian and British heritage. When her parents arrived in London, they were dressed in elegant, tailored attire that reflected British style codes. This aesthetic has strongly informed Tolu’s design language. She is also deeply inspired by her father’s photography, which captured women in traditional Nigerian dress. The interplay between these two cultures is reflected in her work—seen in oversized drapery, sculptural headwear, tailored dresses and outerwear, as well as her use of prints and pattern. Sustainability is deeply embedded in her practice. She works with upcycled and recycled materials and prioritizes eco-friendly packaging. Her supply chain is also UK-based, helping to minimize waste and reduce the brand’s carbon footprint.

 

 

 

 

 

SOCIAL CAUSES

The brand’s ethical impact extends across multiple communities. Tolu has collaborated with the charity Choose Love, donating proceeds to support displaced and vulnerable communities. She has also partnered with The City of Joy, supporting women who are survivors of sexual violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Tolu Coker continues to promote inclusion, advocacy, and empowerment, using her platform to amplify underrepresented voices.

 

 

 

 

AWARDS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Tolu’s impact through design and ethical practice has earned recognition across multiple industries. She was featured as a cover star for British Vogue’s Sustainability Trailblazer in 2024. She received the British Fashion Council NEWGEN Award in 2023, was included in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2022, and was awarded the Prada x Theaster Gates Experimental Design Lab Award in 2022. She also received the Net-a-Porter Vanguard Program Award in 2023.

 

 

 

 

 

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