RaphDesigns perfect Ciiki choice for men at summer

By Esther Onyebgula

The new Ciiki Collection from RaphDesign is a summer collection of free-flowing shirtdresses and kaftans, sewn with unusual materials.
Within the Nigerian fashion landscape, RaphDesign’s Ciiki Collection offers a refreshing take on traditional Danshiki, as the style is currently the in-thing amongst men.

The free-flowing nature of the style and how well aerated it leaves the wearer, makes it a perfect choice for hot weather.
Released in February 2023, a few weeks into the summer season in Nigeria, Ciiki Collection is made of monochrome and colourful shirtdresses for the stylish men.

While the Ciiki’s fabric choices are impressive, some may find the monotone colours too subdued for a summer collection. The shirtdresses are mainly made from monotoned fabrics, but a few sides of these shirtdresses have either pockets or arm-cuffs made from another fabric that is heavy and of more than two colours.

The long-sleeved shirts are equally made of cool summer colours such as sky blue, brown, navy blue, and several other warm colours. The use of monochrome and colourful fabrics creates an interesting visual contrast, but this may not appeal to those seeking a cohesive look.

The sourcing of fabric for Ciiki Collection indicates that the RaphDesigns creative director, Iniodu Raphael Williams, is adept at fabric sourcing and knows which colour is perfect for any weather, and also the skin in terms of fabric type.
Every piece of fabric used in the Ciiki Collection is a pointer to Raphaels garment sourcing abilities, and how well he has grown to be able to use the right fabrics that give life to his illustrations.

Although, the design of the shirtdresses allows for maximum hand movement, the slightly loose fit may not appeal to those preferring a more tailored look. The shirtdresses, with short arm openings, are designed in such a way that the wearer has maximum hand-movement despite the dress being slightly big like a mini-agbada. The threading on the shirtdresses is made in such a way that a single loose thread cannot be seen, neither is there bunching of fabric at any point.

The Ciiki Collections attention to detail is commendable, but some fashion enthusiasts may be disappointed in the lack of innovation in the silhouette design. The pockets on the short-sleeved shirtdresses are made in such a way that they are not too big or too small; the same fabric used to line the side pocket is what is used at the entrance into the breast pocket.
Iniodu Raphael Williams has used the Ciiki Collection to demonstrate his strong abilities to combine garment construction and illustration with attention to details, while keeping it simple and stylish.

The decision to pair short-sleeved shirtdresses with trousers or shorts offers versatility but may also dilute the collection’s focus. However, the lightness of the shirtdresses attests to Raphaels commitment to functionality and the wearers comfortability without necessarily forgoing quality. The shirtdresses (both long and short sleeved) can be paired with trousers or shorts from the brand’s previous or future collections, or even with clothes from other brands.