The Visionary Behind INÁ and Boho Funk
- Kofoworola Odozi
- Dec 4, 2024
- 4 min read
INÁ, as he's fondly called, is the multifaceted artist and designer Afolabi Olayinka, renowned for his vibrant brand INÁ, which has become synonymous with bold, bohemian style. Known for his Boho Funk label, Afolabi’s journey reflects an unwavering commitment to creativity, community, and cultural expression through fashion.
"I didn’t fully understand the industry yet, but I was big on research."
A graduate of Conservation Science and Tourism from Obafemi Awolowo University, Afolabi’s journey into fashion began with a four-month tailoring apprenticeship. He then trained with designer Mai Atafo, learning the ropes of the industry through a two-month internship that included a spot on the 2016 Lagos Fashion Weeke runway. "I just wanted to create things," he says of those early days, "I didn’t fully understand the industry yet, but I was big on research."
This focus on exploration and learning has been central to his career. Afolabi explains, “The more references you have, the bigger the thing you can create. No one is doing anything entirely new; it’s all about the depth of inspiration you bring in.”
Today, INÁ has become a household name, with Afolabi styling celebrities like Bez Idakula, The Cavemen, and Lady Donli, and collaborating with major brands such as MTN and LaCasera for wardrobe consulting and costuming. His work has reached the global stage with showcases at the Lagos Urban Fashion Show and Paris Urban Fashion Week, signalling his growing influence in the fashion world.
What sets Afolabi apart isn’t just his talent but his vision for building community. Boho Funk, a subsidiary of INÁ, embodies this vision by creating a platform for collaboration among creatives from the entertainment, fashion, music, and visual arts industries. From his pop-up shops to creative collectives, Afolabi’s passion for fostering artistic networks is evident. With partnerships from brands like AWCA and Eyowo, he has organised impactful cultural events, expanding his reach and providing spaces for emerging talent.
“The more references you have, the bigger the thing you can create”
Artistry, Style, and Philosophy
Afolabi’s philosophy on fashion is grounded in storytelling and personal expression. For him, styling is a therapeutic art form, a self-pitch through clothing. “I don’t just style for the stage; I style for eras,” he says, reflecting his commitment to timeless fashion over fleeting trends. His process often involves extensive research, drawing on references from high fashion and maximalist styles. Influences like Alexander McQueen and Bodhi have helped shape his unique, art-centric approach.
Despite his accomplishments, Afolabi is a lifelong learner, continuously refining his craft. “The more references you have, the bigger the thing you can create,” he notes, emphasising the importance of a broad knowledge base in driving innovation.
Building INÁ and Boho Funk as Ecosystems
INÁ’s ecosystem, symbolised by Boho Funk, is a testament to Afolabi’s belief in the power of collaboration. Following his initial success at White Space in 2021, he held another major event with A.O.O. in 2022, reaching a broader audience and attracting new talent. “Collaboration is vital. It opens perspectives, brings in fresh ideas, and it’s often where the magic happens,” he explains.
Boho Funk isn’t just about fashion—it’s about building relationships. Afolabi considers his brand a platform for creativity across fields, where fashion, art, and music intersect. “This is a collective space, and we all grow together. Boho Funk is more than a label; it’s a movement,” he reflects.
Ina’s physical store is a harmonious blend of contemporary design and cultural nostalgia, offering visitors an immersive shopping experience. The space is characterised by its maximalist aesthetic with a minimalist approach, with crates for storage and an earthy colour palette that reflects the brand's ethos of simplicity and authenticity through a vintage lens. Thoughtfully arranged, each section showcases an array of curated items, from luxury to accessible second-hand fashion pieces to INÁ made fashion collections, inviting customers to explore and engage with clothing, accessories and even music. The store also features cozy corners and artistic displays, creating an atmosphere that feels both welcoming and inspiring, embodying Ina’s commitment to community.
Challenges and Advice for Aspiring Creatives
"...funding isn’t always the answer."
Afolabi has faced challenges, from managing diverse teams to dealing with funding limitations. “Handling people is a skill. You have to listen if you want to be heard,” he notes, emphasising the importance of empathy in leadership. Funding, too, has been a hurdle, but he maintains that passion is what drives his work. “If you’re true to what you’re doing, funding isn’t always the answer. Sometimes, collaboration gives you what you need on a platter of gold.” he shares, underscoring his belief in the value of community over commercialism.
For aspiring creatives, Afolabi’s advice is simple: “Research your fun.” His message encourages young designers to stay curious, constantly seeking new inspirations to fuel their growth.
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