In the vibrant heart of Lagos, where fashion hums through the streets like music and culture is stitched into every seam, stands a brand that embodies quiet confidence and timeless grace. Ruks Á La Mode is more than a label; it’s a language of empowerment, a celebration of femininity, and a tribute to craftsmanship that honours both heritage and the modern woman.
Behind the brand is a designer whose vision is as intentional as her cuts, Rukayat “Ruks”, the creative force shaping how women see and celebrate themselves. Her work doesn’t scream; it whispers elegance. It tells the story of women who are bold yet grounded, refined yet free, women who wear their confidence like a second skin.
In an era where Nigerian fashion is claiming its rightful space on the global stage, Ruks Á La Mode stands out for its distinct blend of accessibility, luxury, and authenticity. Each piece, from its sharp tailoring to its soft draping, is an ode to women who want to feel powerful without losing their ease.
In our conversation, Ruks Á La Mode opens up about her philosophy, creative process, and her place within Africa’s ever-evolving fashion narrative.
RSA: What has inspired you to get into fashion?
RALM: To make great quality fashion pieces accessible to every body type.
RSA: Who is the “Ruks Á La Mode” woman?
RALM: She is confident, comfortable, and bold.
RSA: Fashion in Lagos is having a global moment. How do you feel Ruks Á La Mode contributes to this new era of Nigerian luxury and creative identity?
RALM: We’re proud to be part of that story. Lagos fashion is vibrant, expressive, and full of individuality, and Ruks Á La Mode adds to that by focusing on timeless craftsmanship, versatility, quality, and silhouettes that speak to both Nigerian and global women.
RSA: Many of your designs reflect a strong connection to culture and heritage. Can you share what inspires your creative process, from concept to the final runway piece?
RALM: Our culture is so rich in texture, color, and meaning, it’s impossible not to draw inspiration from it. I’m inspired by everyday women and our locally sourced fabrics. Each collection tells a piece of that story in its own quiet, effortless way.
RSA: The fashion industry is evolving toward sustainability and intentional creation. How does Ruks Á La Mode interpret or practice sustainability in design?
RALM: Our pieces are made to order, minimizing waste, and using our scraps creatively.
RSA: As a woman designing for women, how do you want those who wear your pieces to feel when they step into a Ruks Á La Mode creation?
RALM: I want them to feel confident, comfortable, and excited.
RSA: What’s next for the brand? Are there any collaborations, new directions, or dreams you’re hoping to bring to life after Lagos Fashion Week?
RALM: We’ll be wrapping up the year with our final collection in December, followed by pop-up events in Lagos and Accra.
RSA: If you could dress three people in this world, who would it be and why?
RALM:
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Tracee Ellis Ross – because she is free, self-aware, and has an amazing personality.
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Tiwa Savage – she would look great in many of our pieces.
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Temi Otedola – she has the fashion sense to style our pieces beautifully.
RSA: What is the future of African fashion in your opinion?
RALM: I see African fashion becoming a staple in people’s wardrobes — getting the recognition it truly deserves.
From Lagos to the world, Ruks Á La Mode is redefining what it means to dress with intention. It’s not just about clothes, it’s about how they make women feel. Confident. Comfortable. Unapologetically themselves.
Every hem, every fold, every stitch carries a message: that beauty is not bound by form or geography. It is born of culture, courage, and craft, and that, at its heart, is the essence of Ruks Á La Mode.
