ABOUT
The name 'Kalakuta' pays homage to the communal compound that housed Fela Kuti’s family, band members, dancers, and recording studio. Growing up next to the Kalakuta Museum, formerly Fela's home, has deeply influenced my artistic journey.
Déji Kalakuta is an independent quality design brand based in Toronto, combining contemporary designs with an exclusive tailoring finish.
Most of my work tells different stories, but they all connect back to my personal experience of being an immigrant in Canada. I am a proud Nigerian who has been fortunate enough to learn about and embrace the multicultural fabric of Canada - and that is expressed through the collective work I produce.
With little formal training specific to fashion design, I credit my understanding of garments and fabric construction to growing up with a mother who was a fabric and clothing trader, providing a bedrock and understanding of various fabrics and clothing hardwares.
Functionality, creativity, and modernity are the essential elements that I believe in as a brand and therefore sparks the foundations of each collection.
Déji Kalakuta was born out of my desire to embrace and nurture my creative side. It represents my love for arts, fashion, and the energy that fuels my most fulfilling days and successful achievements.