Weiz Dhurm Franklyn: Nigerian Fashion Brand Preserving Art Through Modern Couture

Fathia OlasupoAugust 8, 20250898 views

Nigeria’s fashion industry continues to grow in global relevance, and brands are maintaining a balance between artistic direction and technical precision. Weiz Dhurm Franklyn stands out for doing both. Founded by Wisdom Anaba, the brand has developed a reputation for creating collections that are deeply researched, structurally refined, and produced locally.

This article offers a comprehensive look at the brand’s origin, designer, creative direction, notable collections, and its contribution to Nigerian fashion. As a fashion editor, buyer, student, or enthusiast researching Nigerian couture, this article provides verified and in-depth insight into one of Nigeria’s most thoughtfully developed fashion labels.

The Designer and the Brand Origin

Weiz Dhurm Franklyn was founded by Wisdom Anaba, a self-taught designer who studied Theatre Arts at the University of Lagos. He officially launched the label in the early 2010s after working behind the scenes in fashion. With no formal training, Anaba built his skills through experimentation and research, eventually becoming known for his focus on storytelling through fashion.

The brand name Weiz Dhurm Franklyn is a stylised combination of his name and those of figures he considers creatively influential. It reflects a personal yet calculated approach to fashion branding, which has helped set the tone for his collections over the years.

Design Identity and Construction Approach

The brand is known for its attention to structure and form, often producing pieces that appear sculptural. Many of its garments are made using hand-finished techniques, combining fabrics such as lace, organza, tulle, silk, and sometimes metal. There is also a focus on embroidery, appliqué, and beadwork done locally in Nigeria.

Rather than producing trends, Weiz Dhurm Franklyn creates seasonal collections built on extensive research. Each collection typically responds to a theme or historical moment, using fashion as a medium of interpretation. This method of concept-driven design aligns the brand more with traditional couture houses than with contemporary fast fashion.

Notable Collections and Milestones

Several collections from Weiz Dhurm Franklyn have drawn attention for their execution and direction:

Florisis (SS14): Inspired by the Roman goddess Flora, this collection featured floral accents and flowing silhouettes rooted in classical themes.
Bridget Bishop (AW14/15): A dark, historically themed collection referencing the Salem witch trials. It focused on layered velvet, cutouts, and symbolic references.
Little White Dresses (SS15): Presented at Lagos Fashion and Design Week, this collection explored variations of white using different materials and trims.
Journey Through the Pyramids (SS18): A Polo Avenue exclusive showcase that leaned into geometric patterns and historical references to Egyptian art and structure.
Spring/Summer 2025 Collection: This is the brand’s most recent offering. It draws visual cues from marine biology, featuring layered fabrics, three-dimensional embellishments, and lace beading that mimic aquatic movement. It reflects a continued focus on couture-level work.

These collections have appeared in platforms such as Glitz Africa Fashion Week, AFDW Lagos, GTB Fashion Weekend, and Polo Avenue Lagos, establishing the brand’s position among serious Nigerian fashion labels.

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Contribution to Nigerian Fashion

Weiz Dhurm Franklyn promotes Nigerian fashion by producing collections locally, employing Nigerian artisans, and showcasing African culture through a modern format. Its work demonstrates that Nigerian brands can compete in the couture space without outsourcing design or production. Each piece reflects local labour, research, and originality, all of which support the growth of skilled fashion labour within Nigeria.

The brand also avoids over-commercialisation. It doesn’t release product lines frequently, choosing instead to prioritise quality and thematic integrity. This approach gives Nigerian fashion global relevance while maintaining cultural specificity.

Celebrity Features and Media Appearances

The brand has dressed several public figures across the entertainment industry. One of the most visible moments came in 2024 when Lesa Milan, star of The Real Housewives of Dubai, wore a custom Weiz Dhurm Franklyn piece for the Season 3 premiere. Nigerian artists like Burna Boy have also appeared in menswear pieces by the brand, some featuring signature hand-ruffled sleeves and elaborate fabric work.

Retail, Availability, and Brand Structure

Weiz Dhurm Franklyn operates on a made-to-order model for most of its pieces. It does not currently mass-produce ready-to-wear lines in high volume. Interested clients reach out through direct orders via email, showroom visits (by appointment), or private fashion events.

The brand is headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, and maintains an active visual presence on platforms like Instagram to share updates and collection visuals.

Why the Brand Stands Out

Clear artistic direction: Collections are led by research and concept, not trends.
Locally sourced and produced: Garments are made in Nigeria by Nigerian hands.
Quality control: Production is slow, deliberate, and detailed.
Cultural representation: African ideas are central, but presented in a format that speaks to global couture.

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For more stylish insights and the latest fashion inspiration straight from Nigeria, explore our full coverage on Nigerian Fashion Trends.

FAQs

1. Who is the designer behind Weiz Dhurm Franklyn?

Wisdom Anaba is the founder and creative director of Weiz Dhurm Franklyn. He is a self-taught designer with a background in Theatre Arts from the University of Lagos.

2. What type of fashion does Weiz Dhurm Franklyn focus on?

The brand focuses on couture fashion with hand-finished details, thematic collections, and high-quality materials, all made in Nigeria.

3. Where can I buy Weiz Dhurm Franklyn clothing?

Orders can be placed via direct contact through the brand’s Instagram or official email. Pieces are typically made to order or available through showroom appointments.

4. What is the latest Weiz Dhurm Franklyn collection?

The most recent collection (Spring/Summer 2025) is inspired by underwater life and includes pieces with 3D floral details, embroidery, and lacework.

5. How does Weiz Dhurm Franklyn promote Nigerian fashion?

By producing locally, employing artisans, and creating culture-based collections, the brand supports the Nigerian fashion economy and enhances its international profile.