Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ For most, stepping inside the hallowed halls of Abbey Road Studios is a dream reserved for music legends and industry elites. However, for its Autumn/Winter 2025 showcase at London Fashion Week, Labrum turned that dream into reality. In a striking fusion of heritage, craftsmanship, and sound, creative director Foday Dumbuya delivered a runway spectacle that celebrated fashion and paid homage to cultural identity, migration, and the African diaspora.
Labrum’s latest collection, aptly named The Sound of Us, is a continuation of its renowned Designed by an immigrant series, seamlessly weaving West African narratives with British influences. The show set a new standard for immersive storytelling, using fashion as a conduit to explore themes of movement, belonging, and tradition. As models walked through the iconic recording studio’s space where The Beatles, Pink Floyd, and Oasis once recorded, guests were treated to an unparalleled blend of live music and sartorial mastery, creating a moment that was as evocative as it was stylish.
This is not the first time that Labrum has redefined the fashion show experience. Last season, the brand turned Arsenal Stadium into its creative playground, immersing audiences in a visual and sensory journey. Celebrity supporters such as Alex Scott MBE, Declan Rice, and Clara Amfo were among those in attendance, lending their star power to the event. The AW25 showcase at Abbey Road was no exception, with notable figures like Sabrina Elba, Jess Glynne, and a host of industry insiders gracing the front row.
Labrum’s latest collection reaffirms the brand’s reputation for impeccable tailoring, intricate prints, and textured ensembles. The collection featured bold patterns, structured silhouettes, and richly woven fabrics that effortlessly blended contemporary British style with West African design traditions. A continued collaboration with Adidas brought forth sleek handbags bearing the signature three stripes, while statement aviator hats added a vintage-meets-modern aesthetic that perfectly encapsulated Labrum’s ethos.
Beyond the garments themselves, the styling choices further elevated the collection’s cultural depth. Hair and makeup were deliberately understated, allowing the authenticity of the designs to shine. The models sported Mohican-inspired hairstyles, a nod to centuries-old traditions, reimagined for the modern era. Partnering with Sabrina Elba’s skincare brand, S’able Labs, Labrum embraced a fresh-faced, natural look, reinforcing the show’s emphasis on heritage and authenticity.
The auditory experience was just as powerful as the visual presentation. The runway show doubled as a live concert, with performances from Ghetts, Akala, Wretch 32, and D Double E. Their rhythmic verses and commanding presence transformed the space into a symphony of movement, as models gracefully intertwined with the performers, embodying the effortless fluidity of Labrum’s designs. The result was an electrifying spectacle that blurred the lines between performance art and high fashion, cementing Labrum’s status as a true innovator in the industry.
The event’s setting at Abbey Road Studios was not merely a backdrop but an intentional homage to the power of creative expression. By situating the show within such an iconic space, Labrum underscored the parallels between music and fashion, both forms of storytelling that transcend borders and generations. The collection itself conveyed a wealth of information, not only about style but also about identity, history, and the shared experiences of migration and cultural evolution.
More than just a runway show, Labrum’s AW25 presentation showcased a masterclass in storytelling through design. By intertwining rich West African heritage with British sartorial influences, the collection reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to championing the narratives of the diaspora. The seamless integration of live music, historical references, and contemporary fashion cemented The Sound of Us as one of the season’s most compelling showcases.
With an unyielding commitment to innovation, authenticity, and cultural dialogue, Labrum has once again set a new precedent for what fashion can be. This was not just a collection it was a movement, a celebration, and a moment in history that will resonate far beyond the walls of Abbey Road Studios.
