London-based label YAKU, founded in 2023 by designer Yaku Stapleton, captured the spotlight at this season’s London Fashion Week with its striking new collection. Drawing inspiration from Afrofuturism and the imaginative realms of RPG games and natural history, YAKU weaves a captivating narrative that explores themes of identity, hope, and time through the lens of Stapleton’s own family.
A Journey into Afrofuturism
Each season of YAKU unfolds a new chapter in an ongoing saga titled “The ImPossible Family Reunion in RPG Space.” These presentations are renowned for their immersive environments that transport audiences into alternate universes, making each show a unique experience.
Photos by Anna Nowalska-Duda @baro_nova
For the latest collection, Stapleson moved to the catwalk format for the first time with “A Ground to Stand On.” This sixth chapter departed from the training grounds of previous seasons, venturing into themes of pre-colonial Caribbean resistance, thus bridging the gap from preparation to lived reality. This evolution reflects YAKU’s commitment to using fashion as a narrative tool, expanding the storytelling through performance, space, and intricate world-building.
This February, YAKU presented its seventh chapter, “Evolution of Combat.” This collection was a powerful exploration of survival and identity through the lens of two brothers, depicting how their shared experiences shape their diverging paths.
Photographer Anna Nowalska-Duda went backstage to capture the magic of the event, documenting the vibrant energy and emotional depth of YAKU’s presentations. The combination of hand-dyed, sewn, and distressed deadstock textiles brought to life an unforgettable fashion experience, one that invites audiences not just to observe but to engage with a rich tapestry of storytelling, setting, and emotion.
YAKU continues to redefine the boundaries of fashion with each collection, inviting the audience to not only witness but to become part of a mythical journey that transcends traditional narratives.
