By Daniel Anazia

Some brands start out trying to fit in, but Lola Threads dares to be different. From the very beginning, it’s been clear they were here to show uniqueness, pulling from styles we’ve always loved but adding a fresh twist.

This new collection feels like that same quiet confidence. You can spot the inspiration in the cuts and details, but everything is now made to feel more thoughtful and intentional. This Lagos brand, founded by Ayobami Ololade Ogunbiyi, is all shades of style.

There’s an ease to their outfits as if the clothes already know they belong to the woman who wears them. As we walk through each look, it’s easy to note that Lola Threads might be an emerging brand, but it’s already speaking its own language. Let’s see what they have for us this year, featuring the 2022 collection.

We see the vision, really. But it’s not hitting it yet. This is supposed to be a date night or dinner gown vibe, so we believe there should be more to it rather than what it’s giving right now. However, there’s no denying that the designer did capture our interest at first glance… You know what? Let’s talk about this dress entirely, starting with the exciting factors.

The Colour:
That bold, royal blue is the first thing that smacks you in the face, as it did us, in the best way. The shade is so vibrant, and it flatters a lot of skin tones—deeper ones especially. If you’re not wearing it to dinner, then perhaps the red carpet? Lol
The Asymmetrical Shoulder:
Asymmetry is always a vibe, and everyone knows it. The one-shoulder design gives the gown an edge. So, when we say we see potential, this factor is one of them. It’s giving boujee, you know. At least, it’s not like every other royal blue maxi-length gown. With this feature, you get a peek of the collarbone, and that’s always chic.
The Skirt Flow:
Now, that bottom half? She moves! The wide, drapey skirt gives the dress a soft, romantic finish, like something that would float beautifully when you spin around or catch the wind as you arrive fashionably late to a garden soirée. Mind if we call you Cinderella?

You see, these factors stand out in this dress, taking it all the way to a Solid 7.5. But there can be more. With the right adjustments, the dress can be elevated to fit standard. Let’s explore:
• The Ruching Overload:
You may have noticed the ruching detail wasn’t included as a standout feature. This is simply for one reason: Overload. While ruching is cool in doses, here, it feels a bit… much. It’s like the dress is trying too hard to be snatched in every direction. And that’s a no-no. You see, there’s a fine line between flattering and fussy, and this dress leans a little too close to the latter. A bit more structure or balance between smooth and ruched areas would’ve helped the eye rest.
• The Sleeve Situation:
So, what’s going on with that one sleeve? This is not about the asymmetry styling but the falling sleeve itself. It’s giving “half-committed detachable wrap dress.” It just kind of hangs there like an afterthought. Is it a sash? Is it a sleeve? It’s not sure, and neither are we. For that part, a rework should be considered – maybe make it a full, exaggerated sleeve or ditch it altogether.
• Waistline Transition:
The switch from the ruched bodice to the full skirt feels a little abrupt. It’s like two different dresses met in the middle. A cleaner, more seamless transition, perhaps a softer gathering, would’ve made the whole look feel more intentional.
Finally, it’s evident that this dress wants to be unforgettable, and in some ways, it is. It’s loud in colour and bold in silhouette. But it’s also a little confused about what story it’s trying to tell. Right now, it’s got ingredients from different style inspos without fully committing to one.
Still, as stated earlier, there’s great potential here. With a few tweaks, this dress could easily go from “almost” to “iconic.” An intentional fix for that sleeve, a rethink of the ruching, and we might be flirting with a solid 9.

This is the second outfit in this collection, and oh well… Where do we even begin?
This fit is quite distinct, and that already speaks to creativity—being able to create designs that typically aren’t the norm. The unique thought process is duly appreciated, but this outfit doesn’t really sit right. We’ll get to that in a minute. For now, let’s break down what works.
Shirt-Dress Meets Utility Chic:
This outfit walks a tightrope between corporate button-down and downtown streetwear. It’s like the child of a banker’s shirt and a corset that got into fashion school. The longline shirt-dress silhouette is neatly tailored, while the corset lace-up detail breaks the monotony. Together, it’s giving Vogue.
The Pinstripes:
Vertical stripes are the go-to for “looking taller and slimmer.” They never miss and are always a flattering choice. The soft blue-and-white pinstripe feels clean and gives it that fresh-out-of-a-design-showroom energy. You’re feeling it?
Layering With Pants:
Now, this is where things get interesting. We want to believe that this dress-over-pants combo was inspired by the early 2000s, but it’s been gentrified. It’s modest and creative… also kinda rebellious, though. It’s safe to say this outfit is statement-making.

The Oversized Collar:
Drama, but make it subtle. That wide collar? It’s playful and sharp—more like a tailored outfit with some personality. The collar makes it feel like a shirt. But with the length of the outfit, you can’t help but think it’s a gown… So, which is it? I guess we’ll never know.

As mentioned, the outfit is undoubtedly a nod to creativity. However, it somehow feels off—don’t you think? Highlighting the mismatched details would aid improvement.

• The Pant Fitting:
Okay, real talk—those pants peeking from underneath? They needed either a bolder stance or a different cut. As it stands, it feels like they were added at the last minute, just for show. The bottom half could use a bit more tailoring or contrast to justify its presence. Right now, they’re just… there, definitely not pulling weight.
• The Fabric Weight:
The fabric looks like it could use a little more structure. It has that slightly crinkled, slept-in texture that might make people debate whether it was intentional or if you just came from bed. A crispier cotton or even a light poplin could’ve elevated the sharpness.
• The Corset Tie Detail:
While we’re totally feeling the lace-up vibe, it feels a little like it got lost in translation. It’s functional-meets-fantasy, but the ribbon looks slightly overwhelmed by the rest of the dress. A firmer tie or contrasting cord might’ve helped it stand out more and really earn its spot.
Final thoughts on this are: this look is clever and artsy, but not for the everyday person. It’s an outfit you’d see on a creative director at a high-concept gallery opening. That’s how bold it is. It wants to blend formality with a little rebellion, and honestly, it mostly works. But like a great draft that just needs a final proofread, a few tweaks in fit and fabric would have made this sing.

Giving this one a thoughtful 5.5/10. Bold concept, good bones, but a tiny bit confused in execution. Still, points for attitude and originality.

The third and final outfit in this collection, and suddenly, it’s like we’ve left the art gallery and walked into a power meeting in Milan. Let’s break down this outfit to uncover why it’s synonymous with a ‘power meeting’.
First impression, and she’s giving elegance with edge. Iconic, wouldn’t you say?
The Bold Blue Blouse:
That blue floral print is striking. It feels like waves crashing in an artful motion. The gathered puff sleeves and the plunging neckline add a feminine feel, like a modern-day Renaissance muse. It’s voluminous without being chaotic, expressive without yelling.
Structure:
The tailored high-waist pants are the perfect grounding element. They balance out the drama on top, providing sleekness and order. The overlay flap in front adds a subtle design twist, almost like a peplum that grew up and got minimalist: clean lines and a structured silhouette.
Colour Balance and Fit Finish
Black plus cobalt blue equals a power combo. The contrast between the abstract pattern on the blouse and the calm, grounded tone of the trousers feels sophisticated. This fit is a chef’s kiss. While the trousers elongate the model’s frame, the blouse defines the upper body. Nothing is too tight or too loose; it’s intentionally tailored.

Now, this outfit can be slayed this way—it’s already perfect as is. But wouldn’t you like to take it up a notch? So, we suggest the following considerations.
• Sleeve Volume:
Okay, the puff sleeves are fabulous, totally. However, they’re also almost overwhelming. A slight tapering or cuff definition at the ends might have helped rein them in just enough to keep the attention on the print.
• Footwear Fade-Out:
The strappy sandals get lost in the mix, perhaps because of the bold look of the outfit already. So, to ensure the footwear and other accessories stand out, it’ll be better to match that bold presence. A heel or something in a contrasting colour could’ve anchored this look even better. Right now, your eyes go top to bottom and then… stall a little at the feet.
• Slight Top-Heavy Look:
Because the blouse is such a statement piece, it slightly dominates the look. A belt detail or more texture in the lower half might have rebalanced things, so it doesn’t feel like the party’s only happening up top. Pretty sure you get the vibe.
In all, this outfit is a conversation starter. It’s one bold look that still manages to feel wearable and modern. We’ll rate this an 8.5/10. This one is sharp, stylish, and commanding. However, it would’ve scored higher with more intentionality in the accessories and a minor balance tweak in the silhouette—still, a very strong contender in this collection.
With all we’ve seen so far, we wouldn’t be wrong to say Lola Threads is shaping a point of view. This collection proves that over-the-top extras aren’t needed to make a statement. With clean cuts and thoughtful structure, each piece carries potential. Just a few tweaks here and there, and this brand will be standing on 10 per cent scores across boards.