Gabrielle Union’s Collection at New York & Company is growing and this time, it is doing so in collaboration with Nigerian Designer, Banke Kuku for a special edition capsule collection, which was launched on October 25th, 2022. Featuring six pieces, the Gabrielle Union x Banke Kuku collection celebrated Union’s 50th birthday and comes with a delicate design of silk dresses, shirts and wide leg pants in signature prints and patterns. The entire collection is altogether luxurious, feminine and pays tribute to the culture, art and beauty of Africa in all of its forms.
Each piece in this collection is beautifully made to compliment all skin tones and is perfect for savvy shoppers who are looking to communicate boldly through their sense of style. Quoted on New York and Company’s website Union stated, “As I’m entering a new decade of my life, I wanted to commemorate this journey with something special, and collaborating with designer Banke Kuku to bridge our cultures together was the perfect fit. This collection captures the beauty, creativity and vibrancy of our communities and integrates Nigerian-inspired designs with the collective flyness of our Diaspora.”
Prior to this capsule collection, the actress has created seasonal collections that featured childrenswear and footwear for New York & Company as part of a partnership that first launched in 2017. On the other hand, Banke Kuku is a graduate of Central Saint Martins College and the Chelsea College of Art and Design who launched her eponymous fashion brand in 2011 and is known for luxury loungewear in colourful print silk pieces that are reminiscent of traditional West-African print fabrics. Her apparel has been worn by celebrities and top models such as Alton Mason, Naomi Campbell and now, Gabrielle Union.
Banke Kuku says, “The collection was inspired by both Gabrielle’s and my love for Africa. It was a very special project for me as it allowed me to bring particular inspiration to life through my pieces. Working with Gabrielle was extremely easy as she had a clear vision of the collection from the start, whilst remaining continually supportive of my creativity and together, we kept true to my brand.”
All pieces from the Gabrielle Union x Banke Kuku collection are currently retailing at New York & Company and range anywhere from $98 up to $498 in price.
Which one of these outfit pieces would you absolutely love to own?