Womenswear label Fruché is based in Lagos and was founded by Frank Aghuno in 2014. The name Fruché is a combination of Frank’s English name and one of his Igbo names, Uche. Aghuno was not formally trained in fashion and established the brand while studying Finance at the University of Lagos. The brand regulalry shows at the popular Lagos Fashion Week .

Through his work, Aghuno wants to challenge misconceptions in Nigerian culture about feminism which he argues is often seen as a negative European influence, but was in fact prominent in precolonial Nigeria. His work is also shaped by the influence of his mother, whom he describes as a ‘vocal feminist’.

The ’Fire’ dress was created as part of Fruché’s Spring/Summer 2020 collection titled Free Spirits II and was inspired by the Agbogho Mmuo (Maiden Spirits) - performances which are held annually in the northern part of Igbo’s traditional territory in Nigeria. Acted out by men, these performances showcase an ideal image of the Igbo maiden.

Feathers are a staple part of the collection, and are used by Aghuno to reference the bird of creation, a prominent motif in his work. This form-fitting turtleneck dress is made from black lace embellished with black beads, supplanted with red, orange and yellow dyed ostrich features to create a flame effect. To manage costs Anghuno produces his collections in small batches, with the designs made up once an order has been received.