“It’s like…you walk in your kitchen and see a pineapple…and a lemon. You think, ‘What if I used the pineapple leaves as a design…what if I make them yellow, then invert them, then mirror that image?’ You leave it and come back to it a million times. You wipe it all out and start over. That’s just one step in the design process.
I don’t think people really understand how much goes into it. The 20 hour work days, the sleepless nights…the fails and the setbacks. It’s so much, but I won’t complain. This life, the influence, the impact I’m making in the industry…it’s a dream come true.” prevalently – – Buki Ade
Buki Ade is a Nigerian American fashion designer. By utilizing culturally inclusive designs, she has transformed and revolutionized the swimsuit industry. Born and raised in Nigeria, Buki’s family emigrated from Nigeria to the US when she was 8 years old. As the first born of a traditional Nigerian family, Ms. Ade was expected to study medicine and take care of her family with a “guaranteed” income. In fact, she dutifully obliged by enrolling in nursing school. Ultimately, she decided to explore her own creative path.
Growing up, Ms. Ade had ample opportunity to express creativity in her attire. It is common in the Nigerian community to have custom outfits made for special occasions and Ms. Ade never failed to push the limits of modern fashion. Even in her teenage years, she didn’t shy away from putting her unique style on everything she wore. Those closest to her could tell you of the many ways she embodied all the makings of a designer at a young age. From distressing jeans, to reconstructing clothing and shoes – Ms. Ade’s innate flair for fashion was undeniable. Receiving her first sketchbook at 12, she became fully aware of her passion for design at 13. As a young girl, Ms. Ade recalls learning the basics of sewing by watching her grandmother sew for hours. It could even be said it was in her blood as she often gives credence to her two fashion designer aunts she endearingly refers to as her “superheroes”.
While on vacation one day, Ms. Ade was frustrated by the lack of diversity in the design of the swimsuits. None of the options spoke to the Afrocentric exceptionality she desired to present. This, she attributed to the lack of diversity – more specifically the lack of African designers in the industry. Ms. Ade stepped in as a solution to this problem with the debut of her first collection in 2013.
Prior to the release of Asante (BFyne’s first Ghanaian kente print swimsuit), Ms. Ade refrained from using prints. When Ms. Ade and her team decided to push the envelope with that swimsuit, they had no idea the transformative effects it would have on the brand. From there, BFyne released the Sahara collection in 2017. This internet-stopping collection featured swimsuits with traditional dashiki prints. BFyne debuted swimsuit construction the industry had never seen before. The swimsuits were styled to perfection. As if kissed by Midas, models posed dripping in gold jewelry and accessories – a vibe Ms. Ade passionately weaves into the entire BFyne aesthetic. In January 2019, their flagship store was opened in Miami, Florida. To date, she’s designed patterns and swimsuits for over 10 collections, and it doesn’t stop there. Ms. Ade has plans to release her first ready-to-wear collection! This fall, you’ll see clothing from the design style that changed the swimsuit industry forever.
Hà Tiên THE BRAND
BFyne is a contemporary swim and resort-wear brand. Every hand-sewn garment has been conceptualized for the fiercely fashion-forward, cultural aficionado you are. BFyne designs are for the risk-taking woman in protest of the fashion status quo. Highly regarded for enchanting designs and alluring hues, BFyne swimsuits emphasize your curves with intention. The BFyne experience is meant to leave you inspired and empowered. Audiences will be smitten by your embodiment of uninhibited sex appeal and poise.
Body positivity is a foundational principle at BFyne. You will always see models of varying shapes, sizes and ethnicities strut down the catwalk. This, coupled with stand-out designs, it’s no wonder BFyne shut down Miami Swim Week in July 2019. BFyne has also showcased collections in NY Fashion Week, Cayman Island Fashion Show and the Elite Fashion Show.
BFyne’s list of patrons remains star-studded with fashion icons such as Beyoncé, Iman, Alicia Keys, Eva Marcille, Taraji P Henson, Jordan Dunn and Rosci Diaz – to a name a few. You may have even spotted BFyne on the tube. Looks from the brand have been featured in the movie Pacific Rim as well as music videos from Tiwa Savage (often referred to as the Beyoncé of Africa), Grammy-nominated artists Jidenna, Flo Rida, Tinashe, and X-Factor stars Fifth Harmony! The brand boasts of a 400k+ following and articles in fashion publications like Essence, Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, the Fader, Allure, Glamour, Popsugar, Huffington Post, CFDA, Sports Illustrated and many others.
THE DESIGN
Perfection is the goal. BFyne’s designs are the result of a painstaking research process. Every pattern, print and snip have been meticulously thought out to ensure a fun, functional and flattering experience for you. These garments intentionally lift key areas and accentuate the most essential curves of your body. Quality and style are prioritized. Rigorous screening and testing processes permit an elevated swimwear experience.
Textile prints are inspired from Designer, Buki Ade’s passion for life and cultural experiences. As a Nigerian American, she is able to merge the richness of West African influences with the portraits that comprise scenes of her everyday functions. Africa – its sunrises, fabrics and agricultural silhouettes will forever give way to new BFyne Designs.
