Legacy in Rhythm

The key inspirations behind Rachel Ahonaruogho’s debut menswear collection are tied to her late father’s love for jazz, his saxophone, and soul icons such as Teddy Pendergrass. Drawing from the bold style of the 1970s, the collection combines flared tailoring, statement print, and a moody colour palette, reflective of the work of painter and illustrator Aaron Douglas, a major figure in the Harlem Renaissance, whose rhythmic compositions echo the spirit of jazz music and Black artistic expression. Titled ‘Legacy in Rhythm’, the collection merges personal nostalgia with the pulse of jazz and soul music.

The collection features deep purples, lilacs, and pinks, characterised through the layering of printed dancing silhouettes, utilising the same sublimation technique on cotton organdie, wool, and chiffon. The moody colour palette expresses itself further through burgundy and camel double breasted jackets, contrast lilac panelling, plum linings, and deep navy and grey wool suiting.