Biography
The Nigerian born, London bred designer Tsemaye Binitie founded his eponymous fashion label through which he produces contemporary demi-couture that encapsulates his love of luxury and high fashion. As a child, Binitie was enamoured by the innately glamorous creations of Versace which inspired him to pursue his own design career, and after obtaining his post-grad degree in fashion design from Kingston University in London, he briefly worked for designer Stella McCartney before launching his namesake label in 2010.
Utilizing luxe fabrics—mainly silk as well as pepperings of Aso Oke—Binitie works closely with Nigerian artisans and weavers to create fresh modern patterns and colour palettes. Meticulous cuts and indulgent fabrics permeate the delivery of sharp, refined and timeless pieces, while dynamic draping and body-conscious silhouettes communicate a modern elegance. A mixture of sophisticated evening wear and tailored separates, the Tsemaye Binitie collections are rooted in an ethos of expert craftsmanship. “The pieces are intelligently designed, so on the outside it comes across effortless, hiding the thoroughly complicated construction technique,” the designer tells Essence.
Shown at the AMFW Gala in New York alongside designers like Lisa Folawiyo and Kluk CGTD, Arise Fashion Week, and Lagos Fashion. He also won the Womenswear Designer of the Year Award at the Arise Magazine Fashion Week Fashion Awards in 2012, and has received major media attention from publications like Vogue, Vogue Business, Lucky Magazine, and Reuters. In 2015, Binitie launched an Atelier Bridal service offering pared back, minimalist styles for the modern bride.
